Understanding your needs
'Even though you're on the right track, you'll get run over if you just sit there.'
Will Rogers
More time is spent at work than in doing any other activity. But what is it about your current job that makes you happy or unhappy? Are you on the legal career path that is right for you? And if not, what can you do about it?
These are not simple questions. But they are important ones. So here are six steps designed to help you consider your legal career. We hope they help you think through your own goals and objectives.
And we wish you every success.
Step one
Ask yourself 'Am I happy in my current job?' If the answer is 'No', then ask yourself the following questions:
- 'Why not? What do I like and dislike about my current job?'
- 'What do I expect from my next one?'
- 'What motivates me?'
Talk to friends, family and trusted colleagues and get their opinion, too.
Step two
Carry out your own personal SWOT analysis. What are your:
- Strengths
- Weaknesses
- Opportunities
- Threats
What are your unique selling points? How marketable are you? Are your expectations realistic?
Step three
Analyse the market.
- Where can you work geographically?
- Where are you prepared to work geographically?
- What legal career opportunities are there for you and for your partner?
- What firms can offer you the kind of work you want?
- What kind of firm do you want to join?
- What kind of environment would you like to work in?
- What are your salary expectations?
Step four
Which firms/companies provide the best fit? Having focused on your own requirements, expectations and limitations now prepare a list of target firms/companies.
Step five
Choose your method of approach. You can:
- Apply online to firms/companies or recruitment consultants. If you'd like to make anonymous enquiries, set up a Hotmail or Yahoo account.
- Go through a recruitment consultant. Ask around for recommendations, since not all consultants will give you the same quality of service.
Step six
Whichever way you chose to apply, be prepared. If you have taken the time to follow the previous five steps you will already have done a great deal of research. You will also have a clear idea of your objectives. Your knowledge and focus will significantly enhance your prospects of success.
And remember: you are interviewing the firm/company as much as they are interviewing you.
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