I wrote this outline as a possible presentation at law schools. It occurred to me that you might know some school or organization or even a student who could use this kind of information.
As part of my coaching practice, I have seen how different the legal job market is from even just few years ago. So, we really have to approach it differently.
If this program or coaching using this type of information could help someone or an organization, please suggest they read this blog. Thank you.
WHAT YOU NEED TO KNOW TO GET A JOB AFTER LAW SCHOOL
Since the downturn in the economy in 2008, Law School Students are finding it harder to get legal jobs right after law school. A much more aggressive and pre-planned approach is necessary these days to insure success.
Additionally, the larger debt owed by students has created even more stress in obtaining work as soon as possible. Consequently new tactics in job preparation as well as job searches and decisions needs to be made by Law Students starting in their first year of law school.
This short program hopes to give the student at all stages in law school the insight into the present job market and to help make decisions how to best get rewarding employment.
Some of the topics which will be covered are:
PREPARATION
• What are the present statistics for the legal market place in the student’s community?
• What is the present general economic condition of the community?
• Where does there appear to be potential growth in the legal community?
• Where is there potential decline in the legal community?
• Tools and hints about how to keep abreast of changes in the legal community.
• The importance of timing in preparing for the job search
PRE PLANNING
• Pinpointing the career path.
• Selecting the area of practice (can’t do this too early any more!)
• Selecting the form of practice (Associate, InHouse, Solo, Teaching, Public, etc.)
• Identifying the necessary steps to take while still in law school to maximize getting the desired job after graduation.
• Establishing a detailed plan that will support the steps outlined above.
• Pinpointing resources which can assist in the planning.
THE JOB SEARCH
• Resume/ the good, the bad and the ugly.
• Contacts/ how to organize and use them.
• Unusual resources
• Keeping positive
• Acing the interview
OR, OPENING THE SOLO PRACTICE
• The Fundamental requirements to open a solo practice.
• Resources
• How to get started
In order to cover all of the material adequately the program necessitates about 3 hours. This can be done by one or two speakers. Written materials and participatory exercises throughout the presentation make it relevant to the students and get them motivated to start thinking about this now. This will guarantee greater success in their future decisions.
By: Eleanor Southers
PROFESSIONAL LEGAL COACH AND ATTORNEY
1362 Pacific Ave. #216
Santa Cruz, CA 95060
831 466-9132
www.southerslaw.net
www.professionallegal coaching.com