How to Stand Out in Your Law Firm Job Search: Best Practices for Securing a Position

 

1. Focus on Asking the Right Questions in Interviews

When it comes to law firm interviews, the questions you ask are just as important as the answers you provide. Asking thoughtful, strategic questions demonstrates your eagerness to contribute and your understanding of what it takes to succeed in a law firm environment.
 

What to Ask:

• Instead of asking general questions like "What’s a typical day like?", focus on questions that reflect your commitment to excellence and growth, such as:
  • "What would it take for me to be your top-performing associate in the first 90 days?"
  • "How can I contribute to the firm’s success in both the short and long term?"
• These questions show that you are not just looking for any job, but you’re serious about making an impact from day one.

 

Why It Matters:

• Law firms want to hire associates who are proactive and willing to go the extra mile. By asking performance-focused questions, you set yourself apart from other candidates who may take a more passive approach.

See Also: Off-the-Record Interview Tips from Law Firm Interviewers
 

2. Tailor Your Resume for Every Application

Generic resumes are a thing of the past. Today, every law firm expects candidates to tailor their resumes to the specific job they are applying for. This means more than just highlighting relevant experience—it’s about framing your skills and achievements to align with the firm’s needs.
 

How to Tailor Your Resume:

• Highlight Relevant Experience: If you’re applying to a litigation-focused firm, emphasize your litigation skills, such as trial experience, deposition management, or case strategy.
• Use Keywords: Review the job description carefully and incorporate relevant keywords into your resume. For example, if the firm is seeking someone with “complex commercial litigation experience,” make sure this phrase appears in your resume.
• Showcase Results: Firms want to see outcomes, not just tasks. If you have successfully handled cases or contributed to significant settlements, include those details. For example: "Secured a $2 million settlement in a breach of contract case for a Fortune 500 client."

 

Why It Matters:

• Law firms receive hundreds of resumes for each position, so tailoring yours ensures that it stands out. Demonstrating that you understand the firm’s specific needs will make a stronger impression on the hiring committee.

See Also: Harrison Barnes’s 29 Rules to Make Your Resume More Marketable

 

3. Be Proactive with Law Firm Communication

Once you’ve applied for a position, it’s important to stay engaged with the firm, especially if you have already secured an interview. Following up with the firm not only shows your interest but also keeps you top of mind as they evaluate candidates.
 

How to Follow Up:

• After an Interview: Send a thank-you email within 24 hours of the interview, thanking the interviewers for their time and reiterating your enthusiasm for the position. Mention something specific from the interview that resonated with you, whether it was a discussion about the firm’s culture or a case they mentioned.
• Before the Hiring Decision: If you haven’t heard back within the timeline they provided, send a polite follow-up email. Keep it simple, such as: "I wanted to check in and see if there are any updates regarding my application. I remain very interested in the opportunity and look forward to hearing from you."

 

Why It Matters:

• A well-timed follow-up demonstrates professionalism and genuine interest. Law firms appreciate candidates who are eager and proactive but not overly aggressive in their communications.

 

4. Understand the Importance of Market Timing and Location

The legal job market fluctuates based on location and practice area. Some regions or practice areas may be saturated with candidates, making it harder to stand out, while others may be experiencing a shortage of qualified lawyers.
 

Tips for Navigating the Market:

• Be Open to Relocation: Some of the best opportunities may be outside of major legal markets like New York or Los Angeles. Smaller markets such as Las Vegas, Indianapolis, or even Nebraska may have less competition and more job openings, making it easier to secure a position.
• Practice Area Flexibility: Certain practice areas, like corporate law or mergers and acquisitions, may slow down during economic downturns. However, areas like litigation, trusts & estates, insurance coverage, or family law tend to remain stable or even increase in demand during recessions. If you’re open to working in these areas, you’ll have more opportunities.

 

Why It Matters:

• In major cities, the sheer volume of qualified candidates can make it difficult to secure a position. By expanding your search to smaller markets or more niche practice areas, you can increase your chances of success significantly.

 

5. Approach Interviews as Learning Opportunities

If you’re not immediately sold on a particular firm or position, approach the interview as an opportunity to practice and refine your interviewing skills. Sometimes, the firm you least expect may turn out to be the best fit.
 

How to Shift Your Mindset:

• View interviews as practice for bigger opportunities down the road. The more interviews you participate in, the better you become at navigating tricky questions, articulating your value, and understanding what firms are looking for.
• Don’t dismiss an opportunity too early in the process. Even if a firm or location isn’t exactly what you were initially aiming for, the interview experience can open new doors. For example, a candidate who originally only considered roles in New York ended up accepting an offer in Las Vegas after realizing the firm’s culture and work-life balance were exactly what they were looking for.

 

Why It Matters:

• Treating interviews as valuable learning experiences will help you build confidence and improve your performance over time. You may even discover a great opportunity that wasn’t on your radar.

See Also: Top 23 Law Firm Interview Tips for Attorneys and Law Students: How to Excel in Law Firm Interviews

 

6. Be Realistic About the Role of Recruiters

Legal recruiters can be extremely helpful in guiding you through the job search process, but it’s important to manage your expectations about what they can do. Recruiters often work on behalf of law firms to fill specific openings, so if you don’t meet the criteria for those roles, they may not prioritize your application.
 

How to Work with a Recruiter:

• Be Honest About Your Goals: Clearly communicate your expectations, such as practice area preferences, desired locations, and long-term career objectives. This will help the recruiter match you with the right opportunities.
• Understand Their Priorities: Recruiters are most likely to work with candidates who meet the immediate needs of their client firms. If you don’t fit those roles, it may be beneficial to expand your search independently.

 

Why It Matters:

• While recruiters can provide valuable insights and help you land interviews, ultimately, you need to be proactive in your own job search. Leverage their knowledge, but don’t rely solely on them for all of your opportunities.

See Also: A Comprehensive Guide to Working with a Legal Recruiter

 

7. Stay Open to Opportunities in Niche Markets

Some of the most promising legal careers are found in niche markets or practice areas that may not initially seem appealing. However, these areas often have fewer candidates and higher demand, making it easier to stand out.
 

Examples of Niche Markets:

• Insurance Coverage: This practice area consistently has a high demand for qualified lawyers, and firms often struggle to find enough attorneys with relevant experience.
• Trusts & Estates: While not as glamorous as corporate law or intellectual property, trusts and estates can be a stable and lucrative practice area, especially in smaller markets.
• Patent Litigation or Prosecution: If you have a background in science or engineering, consider leveraging those skills in patent prosecution or litigation. Law firms are always in need of attorneys with technical expertise.

See Also: Develop a Niche

 

Why It Matters:

• If you are open to exploring niche practice areas, you may find yourself in higher demand and with more career stability than if you focus solely on oversaturated markets.

 

Conclusion: Becoming a Standout Candidate

Securing a position in a law firm requires a thoughtful approach, from tailoring your resume to strategically handling interviews and following up with firms. By asking the right questions, staying proactive in your communication, and being open to opportunities outside of traditional paths, you can increase your chances of landing a position that fits your skills and career goals.

Remember, the key to standing out is showing law firms that you’re not just looking for any job—you’re looking to make a lasting impact from day one. By following these best practices, you'll not only stand out from other candidates but also increase your chances of securing a rewarding position at a law firm.

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About Harrison Barnes

Harrison Barnes is a prominent figure in the legal placement industry, known for his expertise in attorney placements and his extensive knowledge of the legal profession.

With over 25 years of experience, he has established himself as a leading voice in the field and has helped thousands of lawyers and law students find their ideal career paths.

Barnes is a former federal law clerk and associate at Quinn Emanuel and a graduate of the University of Chicago College and the University of Virginia Law School. He was a Rhodes Scholar Finalist at the University of Chicago and a member of the University of Virginia Law Review. Early in his legal career, he enrolled in Stanford Business School but dropped out because he missed legal recruiting too much.

Barnes' approach to the legal industry is rooted in his commitment to helping lawyers achieve their full potential. He believes that the key to success in the legal profession is to be proactive, persistent, and disciplined in one's approach to work and life. He encourages lawyers to take ownership of their careers and to focus on developing their skills and expertise in a way that aligns with their passions and interests.

One of how Barnes provides support to lawyers is through his writing. On his blog, HarrisonBarnes.com, and BCGSearch.com, he regularly shares his insights and advice on a range of topics related to the legal profession. Through his writing, he aims to empower lawyers to control their careers and make informed decisions about their professional development.

One of Barnes's fundamental philosophies in his writing is the importance of networking. He believes that networking is a critical component of career success and that it is essential for lawyers to establish relationships with others in their field. He encourages lawyers to attend events, join organizations, and connect with others in the legal community to build their professional networks.

Another central theme in Barnes' writing is the importance of personal and professional development. He believes that lawyers should continuously strive to improve themselves and develop their skills to succeed in their careers. He encourages lawyers to pursue ongoing education and training actively, read widely, and seek new opportunities for growth and development.

In addition to his work in the legal industry, Barnes is also a fitness and lifestyle enthusiast. He sees fitness and wellness as integral to his personal and professional development and encourages others to adopt a similar mindset. He starts his day at 4:00 am and dedicates several daily hours to running, weightlifting, and pursuing spiritual disciplines.

Finally, Barnes is a strong advocate for community service and giving back. He volunteers for the University of Chicago, where he is the former area chair of Los Angeles for the University of Chicago Admissions Office. He also serves as the President of the Young Presidents Organization's Century City Los Angeles Chapter, where he works to support and connect young business leaders.

In conclusion, Harrison Barnes is a visionary legal industry leader committed to helping lawyers achieve their full potential. Through his work at BCG Attorney Search, writing, and community involvement, he empowers lawyers to take control of their careers, develop their skills continuously, and lead fulfilling and successful lives. His philosophy of being proactive, persistent, and disciplined, combined with his focus on personal and professional development, makes him a valuable resource for anyone looking to succeed in the legal profession.

About BCG Attorney Search

BCG Attorney Search matches attorneys and law firms with unparalleled expertise and drive, while achieving results. Known globally for its success in locating and placing attorneys in law firms of all sizes, BCG Attorney Search has placed thousands of attorneys in law firms in thousands of different law firms around the country. Unlike other legal placement firms, BCG Attorney Search brings massive resources of over 150 employees to its placement efforts locating positions and opportunities its competitors simply cannot. Every legal recruiter at BCG Attorney Search is a former successful attorney who attended a top law school, worked in top law firms and brought massive drive and commitment to their work. BCG Attorney Search legal recruiters take your legal career seriously and understand attorneys. For more information, please visit www.BCGSearch.com.