Ask-a-Recruiter: When Should Lawyers Change Jobs?
Contributed by Irene Pokh
“I am an associate at a top law firm and I am keen to change jobs soon, what is the best way to do this and should i start looking now, or wait until after the summer?
The best way to begin a job search is to assess your current situation – figure out what you wish to change, what you want to see in your next job, and you want to eliminate when you make your move. Set your goals and be realistic about your prospects.
With regard to timing, there is no set formula. However, there are several elements that you will want to consider. Without knowing your specifics, such as whether you are a junior, midlevel or senior associate, your practice area, and most importantly your motivation for looking, it is more challenging to give you precise advice. However, to the extent that a firm or a company of interest is looking for someone with your skill set, you should most certainly pursue the opportunity, regardless of timing.
Keep in mind that a job search is a process and it may take you longer then you anticipate (and probably will – given the state of the current job market). There are also a number of factors to consider in timing your search. During the summer, firms are busy with summer associates and are less focused on bringing on board laterals, particularly candidates with less then 3 years of experience. If your plan includes contacting a significant number of firms, in order to get the full attention of the recruitment staff, you will want to send your résumé now (early spring) or wait until late the fall, as the gaps in staffing are more prominent.
You may also need to consider your bonus situation. If you stand to lose a significant amount, and you are not in rush to leave, you may decide to defer your search until October or November so that your exit is timed with receiving your year-end bonus. However, if you do find something now, you may be able negotiate a signing bonus to make up for what you will be leaving with your current employer, or possibly qualify for the pro-rated portion of the year end-bonus.
Ultimately, having several options to choose from should be your goal, and to that end you must have a “knockout” résumé, and a compelling and concise cover letter – tailored to each specific opportunity. Make sure that you have a recent writing sample and copies of your transcript from law school. Find out the application procedure for each firm and make sure to follow the appropriate protocol. Make it an ongoing process, good luck and keep us posted!
