8 Tips to Help Find a Job After Law School

The long-awaited time has come. You’re finishing up your degree and now it’s time to give your legal career serious thought.

As the economy bounces back from the pandemic, many employers find themselves in need of employees to help fulfill the demands of their growing businesses, specifically those in the legal sector. While this may sound promising to those new graduates entering the workforce, landing your first legal job (and actually liking it), will require strategic effort and due diligence on your end.

Finding a job after law school can be a daunting task, but with the right approach and a bit of persistence, it’s more than possible to land a rewarding and fulfilling career in the legal field.

Regardless of where you are on your journey, we suggest incorporating these 8 strategies to help increase your chances of finding a job after law school.

1. Network, Network, Network

One of the most effective ways to find a job after law school is through networking. Start by reaching out to your classmates, professors, and alumni from your law school. These connections can provide valuable insights into the job market and may even be able to put you in touch with potential employers. Additionally, consider joining professional organizations and attending legal industry events to expand your network and make new connections.

2. Tailor Your Resume and Cover Letter

Your resume and cover letter are often the first impressions an employer has of you, so it’s important to make them stand out. Tailor these documents to the specific position you are applying for and highlight your relevant experience and skills. Consider using bullet points and action verbs to make your resume easy to read and showcase your accomplishments.

3. Use Job Search Resources

There are a number of resources available to help you find a legal job after graduation. Websites such as LinkedIn, Indeed, and LawJobs.com can be useful for finding job openings and connecting with potential employers.

Your law school’s career center may have job listings and resources specifically for law graduates. They can provide information on a range of legal jobs, including nontraditional-track positions in law firms and corporations. You can also learn more about interviewing, starting salaries, and billable hours expectations, among other topics.

4. Consider Internships and Externships

Internships and externships can be a great way to gain experience and build your skills while also making connections in the legal field. These opportunities can also help you stand out in a competitive job market.

5. Be Proactive

Don’t be afraid to reach out to potential employers directly. Research companies and organizations that align with your interests and goals, and consider reaching out to them to inquire about job openings or to express your interest in working for them.

6. Keep an Open Mind

While you may have a specific career path in mind, it’s important to keep an open mind and be willing to explore different opportunities. Consider taking on internships or entry-level positions in order to gain experience and build your skills. This can also help you determine what kind of work you enjoy and where your strengths lie.

7. Use Your Skills and Experiences to Your Advantage

Think about your unique skills and experiences and how they can be applied to the legal field. Do you have strong research and writing skills? If so, consider a career in legal writing or research. Do you have a background in business or finance? A role in corporate law might be a good fit for you.

8. Connect with a Recruiter to Find a Legal Job

A final option is to research and connect with reputable legal recruiters. While it’s true recruiters oftentimes place experienced attorneys into desirable positions, there are many recruiters that will work with recent law school grads if they show promise.

Glades Talent legal recruiters pair insider knowledge with our vast network of legal professionals to serve as a viable resource during your job search. As a result, our team is able to efficiently connect top talent with worthy legal employers, giving you the jumpstart you need in your career.

Learn more about the difference a trusted legal recruitment partner can make by scheduling an introductory call with an expert member of our team today.