With the New Year rapidly approaching, many attorneys are already thinking about their job prospects for the coming year. If you’re one of those attorneys, now is the time to start planning your job search. Why? Because the best time to look for a new position in the legal field is now! Here are five key reasons why you shouldn’t wait to start your search.
1. No One Else is Looking in November and December
January is when everyone else is looking for a job. Generally, if everyone else is doing the same thing there will be more competition. In January countless people as qualified as you may be applying for the same positions, causing the firms to be much choosier. This is not good and will hurt you.
When you submit your resume during a time of less competition, you will be one of the only people applying. This makes you stand out more and gives you a better chance of getting an interview. It’s important to note that there are also fewer attorneys available to hire since many law students don’t graduate until May or June. This means that firms are more likely to take a chance on an attorney who may not have as much experience since there are fewer candidates to choose from.
2. Firms Want to Get Positions Filled Before the End of Their Fiscal Year
Most firms operate on a fiscal year that runs from January 1st until December 31st. This means that they want to get all of their hiring done before the end of December so that they can start fresh in January with a full slate of attorneys. Because of this, they are more likely to hire someone in November or December than at any other time during their fiscal year.
3. Partners are More Involved in Hiring During This Time
During the busy summer months, partners at firms are often out of town or taking vacations. This makes it difficult for them to be involved in the hiring process. However, during November and December they are typically back in their offices and able to devote more time to reviewing resumes and interviewing candidates. As a result, you have a better chance of getting hired during this time period than you do at other times during the year.
4. You Will Have More Time to Prepare Your Application
Since most people aren’t looking for jobs during the end of the year you will have more time to prepare your application materials and customize your resume and cover letter for each position you apply for instead of having to rush through them like you would if you were applying during peak hiring season. This will give you a better chance of getting an interview since your application will be stronger than those submitted by other candidates.
5. You Will Be Able to Negotiate a Better Salary
Since firms are typically trying to fill positions quickly during this time, they may be more willing to negotiate salary than they would be at other times of the year. If you’re able to secure a position during the end of the year, you may be able to negotiate a higher salary than you would if you were hired at another time.
If you’re thinking about making a move in the legal field, now is the time to start your job search! With less competition and more opportunities available, November and December can be an ideal time to find your dream job at a law firm. If you need help getting started, contact us HERE. We specialize in helping attorneys find their perfect match and would be happy to assist you in any way we can!
To see other reasons why now may be the right time, read THIS article.
