Here’s the bad news: According to a recent Wall Street Journal analysis, new law school graduates have a 50/50 chance of getting a job as a lawyer within nine months.

The good news?

As a leading legal employment agency in Northern California, Pacific Staffing knows there are some steps you can take to increase your odds significantly. Here are a few job search essentials to keep in mind:

1. Do Your Research.

Just because a law firm doesn’t have a position posted, doesn’t mean they’re not hiring. To research specific firms and develop a list of possible employers to target, use online resources, like the Martindale-Hubbell law firm database, which tells you what each firm does and how many attorneys they employ.

2. Tailor Your Resume.

Your resume is the first impression you make on an employer and it needs to be perfect. Not only should it be error-free, but every resume you send out also needs to be customized to the position to which you’re applying. If you’re applying to a position at an employment law firm, for instance, then include any relevant employment law-related experience you have. A one-size-fits-all resume just doesn’t cut it anymore.

3. Network, Network, Network.

Employers are more comfortable hiring those they know…or, at least, those that have been referred to them by a trusted source. So it’s important to network in order to raise your visibility among employers in the legal field.

4. Set Yourself Apart.

When employers are receiving hundreds of resumes for one position, it’s important to distinguish yourself from the rest. To do so, be sure to take steps such as following up with a simple call or email expressing your interest once again in the position and why you think you’d be a good fit.

5. Get Help.

There’s plenty of help out there for those seeking employment in the legal field. For instance, your law school likely offers free career services where you can meet with a career counselor who can help connect you with possible opportunities. Likewise, you can connect with a legal employment agency – like Pacific Staffing – who specializes in placing legal professionals with employers.

Ready for Some Help?

If you are, give us a call. As a leading legal employment agency in Northern California, Pacific Staffing will take time to learn about career goals, work environment preferences, interests, and aspirations – all so we can match you with the legal job opportunity that’s the right fit for you. Contact Pacific Staffing today to learn more.