How Many Firms and Jobs Should I Apply To? When Is Enough Enough?

Description

In this webinar, Harrison delves into the critical aspects of job search success, offering valuable insights into the legal landscape. Despite power challenges, attendees witness a session that goes beyond the ordinary, tackling the reasons behind job search failures and triumphs.

Harrison emphasizes the importance of casting a wide net in the competitive legal market. With 20 factors influencing job search success, he navigates through the intricacies of practice area demand, market dynamics, and adaptability. Drawing on examples from Legal Authority's success stories, he showcases the effectiveness of applying widely and strategically.

Attendees gain a comprehensive understanding of the factors shaping the legal job market, from economic cycles to the impact of practice areas. Harrison addresses discrimination in hiring, age-related biases, and the significance of timing in job applications.

The webinar extends beyond theoretical insights, offering practical advice on resume crafting, strategic pitching, and the timing of job applications. Harrison's engaging style and real-world examples keep attendees hooked, making this session a valuable investment in their legal careers.

As the webinar concludes, Harrison underscores the importance of commitment, resilience, and continuous learning. Attendees are encouraged to participate in next week's resume review, providing an opportunity for personalized guidance. In a competitive legal landscape, this webinar equips professionals with the knowledge and strategies needed for job search success.

Transcript:

All right, let's get started with this webinar. Today's session is particularly special as we didn't announce it, making your presence here great news. Despite ongoing power failures, it's good to see many attendees. Before diving in, a quick note about my location—experiencing power issues, but I'll rejoin after any brief interruptions.

This webinar is crucial, addressing why people fail or succeed in job searches—a topic I find exceptionally important. Stick around; it's worth your time. While many join webinars, your attendance is noteworthy. Nothing hinders obtaining a position more than failing to apply widely.

I'll delve into 20 reasons applicants may not secure law firm jobs, emphasizing factors beyond qualifications. The webinar focuses on markets, firms applied to, job recency, and more. Each reason is a tip to enhance your job search. Notably, my former company, Legal Authority, assisted by submitting resumes to numerous firms—a valuable job search tool.

Observing even major law firms and law schools using our service highlights its effectiveness. The key is applying widely, especially in competitive markets. Your practice area also influences success; not all markets are equally favorable. The webinar concludes with a Q&A, covering your career concerns.

Now, onto the essence—job search success hinges on several factors, with varying likelihoods of success. People often give up when factors, sometimes beyond their control, impact their job search. Don't blame yourself if immediate success eludes you; it's a complex process.

Many claim they've applied to 100 places with no interviews, considering quitting. Understand, few attorneys apply to less than 50 firms per market. Top applicants may succeed with fewer, but in competitive markets, numbers matter. Big cities demand more applications than smaller ones; patterns emerge even before working with us.

Practice areas matter—a slowdown affects opportunities, such as in trademark law during economic contractions. Discouragement arises when applicants perceive no jobs. Yet, in such areas, strategic applications could yield success. Corporate law, influenced by economic cycles, highlights the need for adaptability.

Factors influencing success include practice area demand, job market cycles, and application strategies. For niche areas, a nuanced approach is necessary; don't be disheartened by lower demand fields. Success hinges on adapting your application strategy to the unique demands of your practice area and market.

In the competitive legal landscape, applying to firms without advertised openings is common. Don't dismiss potential opportunities due to assumptions about pay or online reviews. Negotiation can address these concerns later. Recognize that rejections often stem from external factors, not personal shortcomings.

BCG candidates' success exemplifies applying to over 20 firms per market, yielding impressive approval rates. Success involves aligning your strategy with market demands. With 20 factors influencing job search success, practice area dynamics, and adaptability, let's explore how you can navigate these intricacies.

Remember, the more firms you apply to, the better your chances. Marketing yourself, like any product, requires persistent, widespread efforts. You can't predict when a potential employer will need your skills, so cast a wide net. In summary, your success lies in understanding your market, adapting your approach, and persistently applying to numerous opportunities.

Feel free to ask questions during the Q&A, covering job search, firm rejections, and career-related issues. Your concerns likely align with today's discussion. Now, let's proceed to explore the 20 factors influencing your job search success.

If you lose your job as a chemical engineer in a small Tennessee town, you need to explore other markets to find employment. The same principle applies if you're in a low-demand practice; don't limit your search to your current location. Many practice areas are influenced by various issues, impacting their demand. Check job search platforms like BCG to assess the demand in your practice area, determining its marketability.

If your practice area lacks demand, it's not your fault if you struggle to secure interviews. Recognize the limited opportunities and approach your job search with resilience, similar to businesses seeking customers. Experience plays a crucial role in your marketability. With less than one year of experience, lateral hiring by law firms may be challenging. Employers often base assessments on your law school and academic performance during the early stages of your career.

Between two and six years of experience is considered a highly marketable phase for attorneys. They possess enough knowledge to attract lateral hiring interest without seeking immediate partnership. Beyond six years, especially with no portable business, securing positions becomes more challenging. Some firms might consider senior candidates during specific economic conditions, but opportunities decrease with over a decade of experience.

The economic and social cycle heavily influences the demand for various practice areas. For instance, sectors like trademark and corporate law fluctuate based on economic cycles. Healthcare, data privacy, and environmental law can become active or dormant depending on policy changes and political influences. Understanding these cycles is crucial, as they significantly impact job opportunities.

Furthermore, the size and demand of the markets you're exploring affect your chances. Major cities like New York City have an oversupply of attorneys, providing firms with numerous choices. Smaller markets like Saginaw, Michigan, may have limited opportunities, requiring you to broaden your search. Apply strategically based on the size and demand of the market.

Consider the practicality of applying to specific locations. If you lack connections or previous experience in a market, your chances diminish. Some markets may be growing rapidly, welcoming out-of-state applicants, while others may be contracting. Be mindful of the competition in the markets you target; highly competitive locations may have firms being selective in their hiring choices.

Adapt your job search strategy to the demand of your practice area, your experience level, and the dynamics of the markets you're exploring. Understanding these factors will enhance your chances of success in finding the right job.

They have their choice and there's a lot of competition. If you're applying to major firms and you're from Cincinnati trying to move to New York, put your application, there's a lot of competition. More competition makes it harder to secure a position.

 

Law firms can discriminate against perceived weaknesses in your background, unlike in a less competitive market. For instance, being unemployed in New York is a perceived weakness due to intense competition. Firms may prefer candidates already employed, considering it less risky.

Discrimination can extend to law school rankings. If Duke is deemed better than Michigan, even with similar credentials, firms may favor the Duke graduate. Unemployed individuals may need to explore opportunities outside the New York market due to high competition.

Understanding competition and addressing issues in your background is crucial. The number of positions held and employment stability affect the interviews and jobs you secure. Firms prefer stable candidates, and frequent job changes are viewed negatively.

Consider the example of hiring a nanny. If one has changed jobs every 6 months for the past 5 years, it raises concerns. Stability is crucial for employers, and law firms are no exception. Leaving positions too often can hinder your chances.

The amount of business you bring in is another factor, especially for senior positions. Some firms may require a significant amount of business, while others may not. Large markets may demand more business, while smaller firms in smaller markets may require less.

Leaving jobs too often may lead to questions about your commitment. Consider the potential impact on future job searches. Senior candidates without business may need to explore in-house opportunities, although persistence is key.

Searching for a position may take months or even years. Don't give up if initial efforts don't yield results. Keep applying, and success will come over time. It's like investing in the stock market; consistent effort pays off.

Persistence is crucial. Don't be discouraged by initial failures or bad interviews. Stick with your search, adjust your approach, and keep applying. Success may come when you least expect it.

Moving upward in your career is essential. Law firms prefer candidates seeking better opportunities. Moving down may raise questions about commitment. Demonstrating upward mobility enhances your appeal to potential employers.

These are steps that suggest upward mobility. Most law firms prefer candidates with a track record of moving to more prestigious firms or gaining valuable experience. When considering a move, firms expect a compelling reason – whether it's a desire for more trial experience, working with larger clients, or specializing in a specific area.

Put yourself in the firm's shoes. If you're currently at a small law firm handling a mix of insurance defense and commercial litigation but aspire to focus solely on commercial litigation for more sophisticated work, that represents a positive move up. Similarly, transitioning from working with private companies to public companies or moving towards specialization in a niche like healthcare companies can be considered upward moves.

When making a move, craft a narrative for the firm. Don't simply submit your application; explain why you're seeking this change and how it aligns with your career goals. This storytelling aspect is crucial for recruiters to convey your motivation and make the move appear logical and beneficial for both parties.

It's important to understand the firm's perspective. They want to see commitment and a well-thought-out rationale for your move, not a generic application. This storytelling approach is what distinguishes successful candidates.

Moving on to the topic of resumes, quality is paramount. The resume is often the first impression a law firm has of you. Avoid common mistakes like turning it into a political statement or listing irrelevant activities. Your resume should reflect a strong commitment to working in a law firm and prioritize relevant experience. Law firms scrutinize social media, so ensure your online presence aligns with your professional image.

Most advertised law firm positions focus on a specific practice area. Tailor your resume accordingly. Highlight your expertise in a single area rather than listing multiple, unrelated practices. Law firms prefer specialists, not generalists. This focus enhances your appeal and demonstrates dedication to a particular field.

Avoid unnecessary details on your resume. Law school grades, unless exceptional, might not add value. Highlight strengths that align with the firm's needs, showcasing your expertise and commitment.

Lastly, be mindful of political and social statements on your resume. Keep it neutral to appeal to a broader audience. The goal is to present yourself as a dedicated professional, not take sides on contentious issues.

Understanding the nuances of law firm preferences, crafting a compelling narrative, and presenting a targeted, quality resume are essential for a successful job search in the legal field.

I've been following your career and was impressed with this matter. What stood out to me is the offer that goes beyond a mere resume submission. The key is making a difference and increasing opportunities by applying to multiple law firms.

I want to briefly discuss a service I offer, something like BCG concierge, providing in-depth personal service for those seeking guidance. What I share with you now was advice someone paid $4,500 for—a person with a data privacy certification working for their parents' company, aspiring to be a data privacy attorney in a less prominent market. I advised them not to blindly send applications but to make a pitch, emphasizing the significance of data privacy as a service and how hiring them could bring in revenue.

Your choice of the practice setting matters too, especially if transitioning from in-house, government, or academia. Law firms usually prefer hiring from other law firms due to the familiarity with standards and demands. It's crucial to align your pitch with what law firms value.

Timing is critical in job applications. Early applications stand out, as firms often review and make decisions quickly, wanting to avoid prolonged vacancies. Signing up for job alerts and applying promptly significantly increases your chances.

Another factor is your willingness to consider less prestigious or lower-paying positions. Some applicants hold out for top-tier firms, jeopardizing their careers. Flexibility and adapting to available opportunities are essential.

Your current title within a law firm plays a role. If you have a less-than-ideal title, consider framing your experience without highlighting it. Additionally, showcasing a positive reputation in the legal community, gained through talks, publications, or association memberships, enhances your appeal.

Your approach to job searching should involve strategic pitching, understanding the practice setting, timely applications, flexibility regarding job prestige or pay, and presenting yourself positively with a strong reputation. Remember, the more proactive you are in building your credentials and reputation, the fewer firms you'll need to apply to.

One crucial factor to consider is the timing of your job applications. The number of job openings varies throughout the year, with more opportunities in January due to firms distributing bonuses. Law firms are aware that people may leave their current positions, leading to increased job availability. Consequently, applying to numerous places during this period can be advantageous.

Law firms tend to conduct more interviews during the spring and fall compared to the summer when recruiting personnel are occupied with summer associate programs. Additionally, applying in November and December can be strategic, as fewer people tend to submit applications during these months. A higher chance of success exists when facing fewer competitors in the job market.

It's essential to dispel the notion that rejection or lack of response from law firms is a personal affront. Resumes are received regularly, and firms rarely remember individual applicants. The process is a business decision based on whether an applicant is the best fit for the firm economically. Ego should not be involved, as law firms are focused on making profitable decisions, not participating in popularity contests.

Commitment to your job search is pivotal. Dabbling in applications yields minimal results, similar to relying on a single lottery ticket. By actively improving your resume, attending webinars, and staying dedicated to the search process, you enhance your chances of securing opportunities. Specializing in a particular practice area is beneficial, as law firms prefer candidates with focused expertise.

Consider adopting the approach used by patent attorneys, who embrace applying to multiple firms without letting ego affect their decisions. Commitment and resilience are key, and a professional job searcher continually refines their strategy. A thorough search across diverse locations can yield unexpected opportunities, even in unconventional markets.

Understanding the dynamics of the legal job market and adopting a strategic, committed approach can significantly impact your job search success. Embrace the insights provided in this webinar to enhance your chances of securing desirable opportunities.

QUESTIONS

Alright, let's jump into the questions. I want to let everyone know it's great. Almost everyone who started this was here at the beginning, which is amazing because this has been a fairly long webinar. I hope this information has helped. Another thing I would say is that the information you're learning, regardless of where you are in your career, can change the direction of your career.

I've had mentors like Tony Robbins, a former colleague. Having people who understand what you're trying to do and have experience in it is important. It can change the direction of your life and career. I'm not an expert in fitness and health, but in this field, it can really help you.

I have a ton of respect for people willing to learn this stuff because most attorneys don't. Those who do come back to me, sharing how they've changed their career direction. It's not that I'm doing anything special. You can listen to anyone committed to this field. Learning can make a difference in your career.

Now, let's get to these questions. I'll go in a random order. There are good questions here. Any advice for attorneys who are 50 plus? In addition to deleting graduation years in your resume, the first thing is law firms receive resumes with graduation years deleted all the time. It's common. But don't delete them to mislead the firm. Be honest about it. You can obfuscate your experience by summarizing your private practice and keeping it focused on one practice area.

If you've had many jobs, summarize them on your resume. Don't go into a lot of detail. Be honest about your experience. People often make the mistake of deleting graduation years. You may want to make yourself look better by adding fitness-related achievements on your resume, but be mindful of how it may come across.

Here's another question: How can I approach firms that I'm interested in, even if they aren't actively hiring? Apply directly to attorneys in the practice area you're interested in. Don't just apply to HR. Attorneys can champion your application and get it noticed by decision-makers. This strategy can change the direction of your job search.

Next question: You previously said in a different webinar that you don't recommend working as a paralegal. Attorneys should not work as paralegals. If you're an attorney, you should not be working as a paralegal. Work as a contract attorney or staff attorney. You went to law school to be an attorney, not a paralegal. Don't choose roles that downgrade your status as an attorney.

That's it. I hope these edits align with your requirements.

In the real-world market, partners from big law firms, like Mercedes, buy nice houses. Personal injury attorneys, known for buying jets, have houses in Beverly Hills, and even Montana. This reality challenges the perception of personal injury as unprestigious. For example, Thomas Henry in San Antonio spent $5M on his daughter's 15th birthday at a stadium. There are lucrative and well-known opportunities in various practice areas, such as immigration, trusts, estates, and workers comp. One can become wealthy without attending top law schools or excelling academically.

I recently considered office space in Malibu and learned about a law firm owner who, despite graduating from a less prestigious law school, started a successful trust and estates firm, buying a $5M house in Malibu. This success story illustrates that unconventional paths can lead to prosperity.

You don't need to work as a paralegal or staff attorney. Instead, focus on securing a position in a practice area that interests you. Every question in this webinar provides insights into others' challenges, which can be helpful for your journey.

Volunteer work can enhance your resume, but be mindful of how you present it. Highlight experiences that align with a law firm's interests and avoid detracting from your commitment to the legal profession. Ensure your resume and interview strategies are effective. I shared a personal story about my own interview mistakes and emphasized the importance of self-awareness and adaptability.

If you've applied to hundreds of firms without success, it's not necessarily time to pivot your strategy. Analyze your resume, interviews, and overall approach. Small details, like emphasizing certain aspects excessively, can negatively impact your job search. Stay persistent, refine your strategy, and focus on presenting yourself effectively to potential employers.

I had another experience. Briefly, when I got into law school, my first year, many firms didn't interview my law school. Everyone sent out resumes with cover letters. I decided to have a 4 or 5 page cover letter detailing my extensive experience, all the great things I've done, and why I would be a good hire, which was the opposite of what law firms wanted to hear. I talked about books I've written, volunteer experience, and my college performance. No one cares. That was a huge mistake. Be careful about what you include in your resume. Attend webinars to understand potential mistakes in your resume and interviews. Talking too much about public interest or political affiliations can hurt you.

I want to move on because one mistake can hurt you. I saw a woman who went to Princeton, was a champion tennis player, went to Stanford, and became a victim of a violent crime. Listing all the details on her resume wasn't a good idea. It's personal. Would you list membership in Alcoholics Anonymous on your resume? Sometimes one thing is wrong and that can hurt you. Be careful.

In your resume or cover letter, if you're unemployed, apply to as many places as needed to get a job. Working in a law firm, regardless of the practice area, is better than not. Be geographically flexible. There are many personal injury firms and various types of firms. Always try to get a job at a law firm if that's your goal.

Now, let's discuss some questions. With less than a year of experience, focus on what area you're interested in. Transactional practice areas involve math and science, while non-transactional ones involve writing and humanities. Choose a practice area that aligns with your strengths and interests. Continually reapply to firms, as needs and circumstances change. Getting a job in a law firm is like a moving parade. Timing is crucial.

Regarding intellectual property law, it's dominated by attorneys with scientific backgrounds. If you want to be an IP attorney, you need a scientific degree. It's highly competitive. Trademark law is an alternative that doesn't require a scientific background. Apply to big, medium, and small firms. Don't limit yourself.

These are excellent questions, and I appreciate everyone's contributions. Identifying oversaturated attorney markets is crucial for a successful job search. For instance, areas like Alabama, Alaska, and Arkansas are not oversaturated, while places like Los Angeles, Orange County, and Miami are.

In oversaturated markets, the key is to explore opportunities in smaller law firms or those without a prominent brand. While large firms may face oversaturation, smaller ones often have unexplored hiring needs. In cities like Los Angeles, where numerous law firms exist, finding a suitable fit requires considering various options beyond the major players.

Addressing age-related biases in the legal profession is essential. Many businesses and law firms prefer younger workers due to expectations of long-term contributions. However, this bias is more about experience than age. To navigate this, focus on applying to firms where your experience is valued as an asset rather than a liability.

Networking plays a pivotal role in breaking into dominant law firms in a city. Connect with professionals through local bar associations, attorney groups, or other networking events. Building relationships increases your chances of getting noticed and securing a position.

For those in the volatile field of immigration law, the abundance of smaller firms and solo practitioners provides ample opportunities. Identify and apply to numerous firms, leveraging the high demand for immigration attorneys.

Strategic job searching involves understanding market saturation, navigating age-related biases, and utilizing networking to break into dominant law firms. Tailoring your approach to the unique dynamics of your practice area increases your chances of success in the competitive legal job market.

Okay, this person mentions working as an intellectual property attorney for several years and considering transitioning to environmental law. How do I gauge demand for environmental law in my region? To assess demand, check websites for job listings in environmental law in your practice area. Research law firms, using databases if needed. For instance, in Sacramento, California, search for firms specializing in environmental law. A similar search for Los Angeles might yield more opportunities. However, transitioning practice areas can be challenging. Obtaining a job as good as your current one may be difficult due to lack of experience. Even if successful, you risk losing the experience and marketability gained in your previous position.

The person wonders if applying to firms in various practice areas is hindering their search due to lack of specialization. The advice is to focus on one practice area if you have experience in it or can tailor your resume accordingly. If you're a law student or early in your career, this approach might differ.

Another question relates to job prospects based on experience, with the person asking about the difference for someone with 2 years versus 10 years of experience. The response emphasizes that while someone with 2 years may be more impressionable and eager, the person with 10 years is more experienced but potentially less marketable. However, both should apply to as many firms as possible to increase opportunities.

Regarding highlighting leadership roles in professional organizations on a resume, it's recommended to have a dedicated section for such experiences. This demonstrates commitment to a practice area or the legal community, enhancing the overall appeal of the resume.

The final inquiry concerns maintaining an appealing and readable lengthy resume. The suggestion is to condense information, focusing on key titles and practice areas. Long resumes are discouraged, and it's advised to prioritize quality over quantity.

I don't want you as a recruiting coordinator. I hired another person with eight years at a previous law firm, and this is important for you to understand because this talks about 8 years at a law firm. I hired several with 1 to 2, 2 years, 3, 1 to 2, some that were fired. Whatever. These different people. What happened over the course of 20 plus hires that I noticed was that the people with 16 years of experience as recruiting coordinators stayed with me for I don't know, 17 years. The person with 8 years stayed 10. The same amount. So if you're an employer, you look at someone's resume, they're typically moving. If they're moving a lot or not moving, that's what they do. Law firms expect you to commit and stick around.

When people move, there is a suspicion that you're leaving because of performance issues, personality conflicts, or other reasons. People move for various reasons, but if you move too much, law firms may assume there's something wrong with your performance. If you have good reasons, like moving to a better firm, it's good. But if you move without clear reasons, suspicion arises.

Law firms value stability. If you continually take feedback and improve, the longer you stay, the more the employer values you. However, if you move frequently without clear reasons, law firms may question your performance.

Now, a question about prioritizing larger firms with more prestige or smaller firms for hands-on experience. Apply to as many firms as possible. Don't prioritize; take the offers you get and compare them, like dating people from different backgrounds.

Regarding a resume gap filled with volunteer work in a foreign country, it's great. List it, as it shows resilience and experience in a different setting.

Addressing prior layoffs due to economic reasons: be indirect. Say the firm eliminated a practice area or let go of associates within a certain experience range. Avoid explicitly stating layoffs on your resume.

Next week's webinar will review resumes, showing opportunities and recommended firms. Send your resume to jared@barristerconsulting.com for a chance to have it reviewed.

Thanks for staying through this webinar. Learning and committing to professional development will lead to success in your career. I'm excited about next week's resume review. Thanks again.