Law school graduates searching for jobs currently face the obstacle of a heavily saturated career field. Thorough research, smart networking, and supplemental learning experiences can, however, help you find a lucrative position in your chosen profession.
Job-Search Websites
Although not many law-specific employment websites exist, you can still use a generalized job-search website. Sites such as Indeed.com, Monster.com, and SimplyHired.com offer a wide range of positions such as legal research attorney, legal recruiter, and law clerk. The Jobs2Careers website has listings for several hundred available law school graduate careers. The market is still competitive, but you have an increased chance of picking up a job if you familiarize yourself with the websites that announce such positions.
Networking
Networking is an important aspect of any job search. Networking allows you to connect with professionals and companies that may not have certain jobs listed for the public to see. Additionally, these contacts have connections with other members of the legal industry, which can further increase your chances of finding a position. You can network using social media sites such as Twitter, Facebook, and LinkedIn. There are also many law school-graduate networks available. Examples of such networks include the Graduate Health Law Network and the Graduate Student Network.
Internships and Volunteer Work
Internships can increase your chances of landing a job in the legal world. With every new internship comes a host of new business contacts and skills that set you apart from other applicants. Even if you do not gain a permanent position from an internship, you will still take away something important from the experience. Although volunteer work may not be the most desirable post-graduation option, it still increases your visibility in the job market. Volunteer work is recommended if nothing happens after one year of searching for a career in the legal field.
Determination
The most important tip for obtaining a job after law school is to keep trying. Success is often a numbers game. The more applications and resumes you send out, the more chances you have of receiving a phone call. The field of law still holds opportunity for people willing to invest the time. If all else fails, you can try to start your own private law practice. Private practices earn a great deal of money, because they have the flexibility to offer clients customized payment options. You should never give up, because there is always a way to put your extensive legal skills to good use.
