And the Winner is… You!

The first quarter of the year is the season of showcases for many industries.  Buzz from the Grammy’s, the Super Bowl, and the Clio awards (to name a few) is just ending and the Oscars are right around the corner. For those looking for a new job in competitive industries like law, each role can feel like a contest where it’s difficult to stand out. Whether you wish to be the most sought after by firms looking to hire or by clients for your private practice, we have the tips you need to be successful with your audience.

Be Adaptive to New Technology  

Whether you love it or hate it, technology is advancing across all avenues, including communication. In the age of remote work, employers are looking to communicate with more than just a phone call. Video interviewing is increasingly popular, and different employers will use different platforms to conduct them. It’s never a good look to deny a video interview, or request to do the interview on the platform of your choosing. Instead, take the time to learn how to use platforms like Microsoft Teams, Zoom, and Google Meet so you can be ready for your next interview. 

Put Yourself Out There and Maybe Don’t Bring Your “Whole” Self to Work: 

Simply knowing how to use modern-day technology isn’t enough –you also need to learn how to use it to your advantage and to curate your professional image! Marketing has changed in every industry, including legal, and the days of bench ads are fading. 

• Be active on sites that act as legal or hiring marketplaces: Linkedin, Avvo, and Lawyers.com are just a few of the many sites to utilize as a tool to sell yourself and your talents. You may have a profile already on a few sites, all you’ll have to do is look up your name and claim your profile. 

• Be sure to upload a photo to any profile you create: First impressions are everything, and these days they are made with the click of a button. On Linkedin, profiles with photos receive far more views than those without. You want to become recognizable, but make sure your photos are professional! 

• Know Your Digital Footprint: While the internet can be a helpful tool, it can also be a person’s professional downfall. Google yourself and see what comes up. You want the results to be relevant and professional (This is where being active on legal marketplace websites can come in handy, too). Think about making certain accounts aimed at friends and family private and deleting comments or posts on public sites that you may regret later. While it’s important to be authentic, maybe potential clients and employers don’t need to see videos of you doing shots during law school or that late-night Twitter fight that you engaged in. It’s possible to be authentic and to deserve privacy at the same time.  

Communicate Promptly with Kindness and Professionalism 

Communication is key, especially in this field of work. It is important to have excellent communication skills with everyone you come across, from job recruiters to potential clients. Since most communication today is digital, be mindful of your grammar and spelling in communication.  It is important to make a positive lasting impression on recruiters, as they remember who they speak with and tend to keep candidates in mind for future roles. Never “ghost” them, and never lie about your experience or availability to them. The same goes for clients. In the age of online, reviews can make or break a reputation. Treat clients with kindness and respect, and have empathy in their situations. They are coming to you for, not only legal advice, but understanding as well. These attributes will go a long way.  

And Lastly... Mind Your Mental Health 

You cannot be your best unless you are feeling your best. Attorneys deal with an immense amount of stress daily, and stress no doubt goes hand-in-hand with one’s mental health. In fact, in a 2023 study, 66% of lawyers who reported declining mental health said their time in the legal industry was the cause.  While it is important to make clients feel secure, market yourself, and expand on your education, it is even more important to take care of yourself. Do what you can to manage stress, to adopt healthy work-life balance, and reach out when needing help. Read more about the stress lawyers face and what to do to cope here.