How do I re-enter the Job Market post-graduation?

2020-12-13T14:25:17-05:00

Wondering how to enter the job market as a paralegal student and if attorneys will hire me while I am in school for my degree?

Response by SSgt Christophe Murphy made Dec 13 at 2020 3:42 PM

2020-12-13T15:42:16-05:00

I don't think anyone here can speak for the hiring manager. If the job is advertised as requiring a degree you may get passed over if you are still in school pursuing said degree.

Response by LTC Jason Mackay made Dec 13 at 2020 6:15 PM

2020-12-13T18:15:29-05:00

PFC Pamala (Hall) Foster I would inquire with your school's alumni office and the department office to see if there is an internship for para legals. You can get resume experience and get an on the job audition. On the east coast it may be referred to cooperative education. Northeastern University is built on this. Others have it as a bolt on.

If they don't have anything, I would reach out to local law firms to see if they would take on a paralegal as an intern.

I would go to USAJOBS and see if there are any paralegal internships at a near by federal entity. It doesn't guarantee you a job, but again experience. Also if they have anything open up due to churn or retirement, opportunity can meet preparation. I would also seek out the state, county, and municipal equivalents.

Join a professional organization now. Don't know if paralegals have an equivalent of the bar association . 80% of people find jobs regardless of industry, through their personal network. Join community organizations as well like Elks, Masons, VFW etc to expand your circle.

Get 250 business cards made with your key qualifications/experience printed on it with you name, professional sounding email address, and phone number on it. Leave the back blank. When you meet people at these community and professional gatherings, intro yourself to at least 3 people. Mentor and Leader types will write down your key info and refer you to someone who may be looking for a "you".

Build a solid LinkedIn account. Build a soldi Indeed account for when you start cold applying for jobs. Include your profile links on your card. Include a good quality photo in business attire.

Your volunteer time will also be resume worthy.

Response by LTC Jason Mackay made Dec 13 at 2020 7:49 PM

2020-12-13T19:49:06-05:00

Capt Gregory Prickett any advice here?

Response by Lt Col Jim Coe made Dec 14 at 2020 9:40 AM

2020-12-14T09:40:28-05:00

Check with your school’s guidance office or financial aid office. They should be able to help you find employment. Also legal firms may offer internships that can lead to post graduation employment.