With the bar exam behind you, law grads, let the games begin! In many ways, a job search is like a strategy game. You won’t always be in the mood to look for jobs, so it's important to build engines that will keep you moving, even when you're not feeling particularly motivated.
Every bit of planning you do moves you closer to the finish line.
Step 1: Create a map.
Have a concrete
plan for when, how, and where you’ll look for jobs. Write job search tasks into
an official schedule. Include time for looking for posted positions on a
variety of sites (Symplicity, WSBA, KCBA, Tacoma-Pierce County Bar, WA Careers, Indeed, LinkedIn, etc.), writing and updating cover letters, meeting (in person or
virtually) attorney
contacts for coffee, attending panels and events,
and volunteering. Keep track of your steps.
Step 2: Follow the rules.
It can be hard to
listen to yourself, but you are the authority on your job search—no one else
will make you do this work. Make sure you’re taking your own advice and
directives seriously. An accountability partner can be helpful, so stay in
touch with classmates, mentors, CPD advisors, and others who will encourage you
in your efforts. What you say goes, so if you write an activity in your
calendar, that’s a real “to do” item…DO IT.
Step 3: Continually reevaluate your strategy.
What works for
some may not work for you. Feel free to adjust your plan. By keeping track of
your tasks, you’ll be able to look back and see what’s gotten traction and what
needs revamping. Try fresh ideas. As long as you keep moving, you’re doing
something right.
Step 4: Encourage others (and ask for encouragement).
Brainstorming is
a lot more fun with a friend. Surround yourself with positive people who will support
you, give you constructive ideas, and help build you back up when you’ve had a
hard week.
Step 5: WIN.
We say it again
and again: it’s not if you’ll get a job, but when. So remember
that as long as you’re actively taking steps to find employment, you’re moving
closer to the day when you win big and get that offer call. In this game,
trying leads to winning—every time.
