According to CNN Business, the class of 2020 started their final year in a boomtime, with the economy soaring and national unemployment rates dipping as low as 3.7%.
Now? National unemployment is at a whopping 14.7% as of May, but for those aged 20-24, it stands even higher at a staggering 25.7%. Even for those who find jobs, research suggests that their salaries will be impacted for more than a decade.
In short, finding a job was not hard eight months ago, but today, in the middle of a pandemic, it seems an impossible feat.
But don’t fret, here are the top three ways you can start looking for a job as a newly minted lawyer.
1. Emails - Just send as many emails to as many firms that you find any interest in.
Emails are a great way to get in touch with a firm, and have them know your face and
name. Even if they don’t have a job opening right away, they can keep you in mind for future
openings. Especially if you reach out to smaller, local firms, they may be able to create an
opening for you. It’s also a great way to network with local attorneys - you never know what
can happen just from sending one email.
2. Get in touch with your law school’s career office. They can always help.
More likely than not, the career office at your school will have tons of connections with
local and non-local attorneys as well as firms and companies that are looking. You may
even learn about new firms and opportunities that you would not have known otherwise! At
the very least, make friends with the career officers, and they will keep you in mind when a
new opportunity arises.
3. Get on Linkedin, Symplicity, Handshake, Any of these professional platforms
You, yourself are a business of one, and like all businesses, you need
advertisement. The best way to do so to put yourself online. Get some professional photos
done, update your resume, and interact online as much as you can. Establishing your name
and your presence is a great way to get noticed! Also, there may be positions that you can
apply to on these platforms, and all you have to do is apply with a cover letter, and your
profile and that’s it! Using these online tools is by far one of the best ways to find a job in
this virtual age.
All in all, finding a job is not going to be easy, you may get 20, 30, even a hundred rejections, but remember it only takes one to take a chance on you! In the meantime take comfort in that you’re not alone in this, and that job hunting takes time.
Good hunting!