Law Practice Today featured an informative roundtable discussion in their November Webzine (www.abanet.org/lpm/lpt/articles/mgt11083.shtml) with helpful suggestions for attorneys and students from three nationally known career experts: Marcia Shannon, Shelley Canter, and Kathleen Brady.
They discuss career issues, recommendations to stay employed, how to handle a layoff, dealing with a troubled practice area, spending job search time most effectively, and keeping up spirits and finances.
Some very good points to keep in mind. Worth the read.
Thursday, December 18, 2008
Friday, December 12, 2008
Be Proactive Over the Holiday Break
Finals are almost over and the holiday break is about to begin. As you make your plans for the break (work, play, get ready for next semester, or spend time with family and friends) you should also be thinking about your job search. If you decide that the holiday break is time to forget about your employment search, you are making a decision not to be proactive in your search.
Therefore, when you have down time this holiday break and you will. Think about what you would like to do this summer and/or post graduation. Take a look at the job postings online, if you are in Tulsa stop by the career services office. While you are home visiting family and friends, don't forget to network! Let people know you are seeking employment, remind them what year you are in school and that summer/graduation will be here before you know it. Request informal meetings with attorneys in your hometown to learn more about what they do. Sit in on court hearings at the local courthouse and get acquainted with the judge and procedures. Even, volunteer a few hours in the community to let people know who you are and to familiarize yourself with issues addressing the local community. Be proactive, take risks can bring rewards!
Therefore, when you have down time this holiday break and you will. Think about what you would like to do this summer and/or post graduation. Take a look at the job postings online, if you are in Tulsa stop by the career services office. While you are home visiting family and friends, don't forget to network! Let people know you are seeking employment, remind them what year you are in school and that summer/graduation will be here before you know it. Request informal meetings with attorneys in your hometown to learn more about what they do. Sit in on court hearings at the local courthouse and get acquainted with the judge and procedures. Even, volunteer a few hours in the community to let people know who you are and to familiarize yourself with issues addressing the local community. Be proactive, take risks can bring rewards!
Thursday, October 30, 2008
To Blog or Not To Blog
Blogging is something most law students do, just be sure it will help not hurt your job prospects. There may even be ways you can use blogging to enhance your job prospects. In her Letter to Fall Recruits: Clean Up Your (Cyber)Space, Lynne Traverse, a veteran recruiting manager, provides excellent advice for candidates regarding blogging.
Tuesday, October 21, 2008
Internet Dos and Don'ts
The September 2008 issue of the NALP bulletin contains an interesting article entitled E-Professionalism Dos and Don'ts by Tracy Evans (Director of Career Services at Louisiana State University Law Center) and Amy Gerwitz (Associate Director, Alumni Counseling and Relations, Pace University School of Law).
The article talks about how best to use e-resources to present yourself in a positive light. A few of the "dos" include:
1. Do a regular online search of your name (Google, Yahoo, Ask). If necessary, consider hiring a company to “clean up” your online image.
2. Keep your online profiles private, letting in only those you trust and know personally. Check friends’ profiles on a regular basis to monitor what pictures and comments are being posted about you.
3. Record a professional voicemail message at home and on your cell phone. Employers may think you have a beautiful voice if you choose to sing your message, but they won’t be impressed with your lack of professionalism.
The "don'ts" include:
1. Don’t risk putting inappropriate content on the Internet, including on social networking sites, blogs, message boards, YouTube, etc. Don’t assume that just because you don’t put inappropriate content online, others can’t or won’t do so, and their content may include your name or pictures, etc.
2. Don’t assume that even though your profile settings are private, employers and others may not see them.
3. Don’t assume that employers are not conducting electronic background checks on you; they are and will continue to do so.
4. Don’t over blog unless the content is professional. In particular, don’t put anything about your employer in a blog; employees have been fired for this.
The article talks about how best to use e-resources to present yourself in a positive light. A few of the "dos" include:
1. Do a regular online search of your name (Google, Yahoo, Ask). If necessary, consider hiring a company to “clean up” your online image.
2. Keep your online profiles private, letting in only those you trust and know personally. Check friends’ profiles on a regular basis to monitor what pictures and comments are being posted about you.
3. Record a professional voicemail message at home and on your cell phone. Employers may think you have a beautiful voice if you choose to sing your message, but they won’t be impressed with your lack of professionalism.
The "don'ts" include:
1. Don’t risk putting inappropriate content on the Internet, including on social networking sites, blogs, message boards, YouTube, etc. Don’t assume that just because you don’t put inappropriate content online, others can’t or won’t do so, and their content may include your name or pictures, etc.
2. Don’t assume that even though your profile settings are private, employers and others may not see them.
3. Don’t assume that employers are not conducting electronic background checks on you; they are and will continue to do so.
4. Don’t over blog unless the content is professional. In particular, don’t put anything about your employer in a blog; employees have been fired for this.
Friday, October 17, 2008
Good Grooming for Goodness Sakes!
Looking good or personal appearance goes beyond knowing how to dress…it includes grooming. This means that when you put on your suit or business casual outfit it is always clean, stain and wrinkle free and fits. It also means your appearance is given as much thought as your clothes. For dressing tips see the previous entry Dressing the Part.
Don’t forget to keep your shoes looking good. Wipe them off if they get dirty. Polish them. Re-sole and re-heel as necessary. As a professional you will carry a briefcase rather than a backpack, be sure your briefcase is clean too. Wipe it off or treat with leather polish as necessary.
Being well groomed in the legal profession does mean no visible tattoos. So, if you have a tattoo be sure that your clothing covers it, or use make up to do so. All facial piercings must go. Remove any nose, eyebrow, tongue, or lip rings you have. In addition, men should not wear an earring(s) and women should only have one earring per earlobe. You are entering a conservative profession and need to look the part while at work.
Be sure you hair is clean and neat. Make sure your hair is a natural hair color, blue or green hair in the legal profession just won’t fly. Men trim you mustache and beard and by no means ever wear “five o’clock shadow” to work.
Don’t go overboard with cologne or perfume. No one should be able to smell you across the room! Women don’t go overboard with your makeup; it’s the office not a bar or nightclub. Also, watch your jewelry don’t wear too much and be sure no piece comes across as “bling” – this goes for both men and women.
Be sure your nails are neat, clean, and trimmed. If you wear nail polish make sure it is not too bright, you don’t want you nails to distract from you.
These are some general grooming tips…you get the idea, take the time to be neat and clean.
Don’t forget to keep your shoes looking good. Wipe them off if they get dirty. Polish them. Re-sole and re-heel as necessary. As a professional you will carry a briefcase rather than a backpack, be sure your briefcase is clean too. Wipe it off or treat with leather polish as necessary.
Being well groomed in the legal profession does mean no visible tattoos. So, if you have a tattoo be sure that your clothing covers it, or use make up to do so. All facial piercings must go. Remove any nose, eyebrow, tongue, or lip rings you have. In addition, men should not wear an earring(s) and women should only have one earring per earlobe. You are entering a conservative profession and need to look the part while at work.
Be sure you hair is clean and neat. Make sure your hair is a natural hair color, blue or green hair in the legal profession just won’t fly. Men trim you mustache and beard and by no means ever wear “five o’clock shadow” to work.
Don’t go overboard with cologne or perfume. No one should be able to smell you across the room! Women don’t go overboard with your makeup; it’s the office not a bar or nightclub. Also, watch your jewelry don’t wear too much and be sure no piece comes across as “bling” – this goes for both men and women.
Be sure your nails are neat, clean, and trimmed. If you wear nail polish make sure it is not too bright, you don’t want you nails to distract from you.
These are some general grooming tips…you get the idea, take the time to be neat and clean.
Thursday, October 2, 2008
Business Card Etiquette
Always have business cards with you, put some in your:
● Business card holder
● Wallet
● Purse
● Briefcase
● Suit pocket
● Car
This way you will always have some with you when you need one. Your card is part of your professional image, be sure your cards are clean and uncrumpled.
Never start a conversation by offering your car, rather offer one after you have spent a few minutes in conversation. Your card is a chance to continue or further the connection and exchange contact information. You offer your card, something along the lines of “May I give you my card?” When handing over your card present it typeface up and facing the recipient so they can read it.
Typically the recipient will than give you their card. When you are given a business card:
● Take a minute and look at it
● Examine the person’s title and company
● Watch the presentation
● Offer an appropriate compliment bout the card or information on it
● Be careful how you put it away – show respect
Alternatively you can ask for someone’s card by saying something like “I’d like to follow up with you, do you have a card?”
At an event where you may be meeting a lot of people it is acceptable to write notes on the back of someone’s card to better remember them or to follow up. However, don’t write on the back of a card while that person is present!
● Business card holder
● Wallet
● Purse
● Briefcase
● Suit pocket
● Car
This way you will always have some with you when you need one. Your card is part of your professional image, be sure your cards are clean and uncrumpled.
Never start a conversation by offering your car, rather offer one after you have spent a few minutes in conversation. Your card is a chance to continue or further the connection and exchange contact information. You offer your card, something along the lines of “May I give you my card?” When handing over your card present it typeface up and facing the recipient so they can read it.
Typically the recipient will than give you their card. When you are given a business card:
● Take a minute and look at it
● Examine the person’s title and company
● Watch the presentation
● Offer an appropriate compliment bout the card or information on it
● Be careful how you put it away – show respect
Alternatively you can ask for someone’s card by saying something like “I’d like to follow up with you, do you have a card?”
At an event where you may be meeting a lot of people it is acceptable to write notes on the back of someone’s card to better remember them or to follow up. However, don’t write on the back of a card while that person is present!
The Paper of Job Applications
Cover Letter: A one page letter three to four paragraphs in length. In the first paragraph identify why you are writing, your specific interest in that employer, and your status (1L, 2l etc.). In clued any personal conatus with the employer or geographic location in this paragraph as well. The middle paragraph(s) is where you sell yourself. You want to focus o your skills and background that fit with the employer. In the final paragraph you need to either state what action you hope will happen with your application or state what action you will take. Be sure to end your letter by saying “thank you for your time and consideration”. Use “good paper” typically called bonded, use white, off-white, very light beige, or grey paper with atypical type font such as Times New Roman. Don’t use anything smaller than 11 point font size.
Resume: A one –two page document which is a factual list of objective information. Always begin with your name and contact information at the top of the page. Then divide you resume into sections: Education and Employment at a minimum, and other sections as needed Publications, Special Skills, and Volunteer Activities. In each section, list information in reverse chronological order. Use “good paper” typically called bonded, use white, off-white, very light beige, or grey paper with atypical type font such as Times New Roman. Don’t use anything smaller than 11 point font size. Don’t use too many styles, types of bullets, or small margins. Don’t write in the first person and use your official GPA and rank on your resume – employers can check this information.
Writing Sample: Five – ten pages is typical for length. It must be a legal writing sample, from law school or a job, which is your own work for legal jobs. If you want to use something from work you must get your employer’s permission. This does not have to be on good paper, just what comes out of the printer.
Transcript A copy from the registrar’s office is needed; you will need to request these in advance.
List of References: Typically three is sufficient. List them by title, name, mailing address, phone number and email. When choosing references, be sure they are familiar with your work and/or academic abilities. These are not personal references. It is a good idea to give your references a copy of your resume in case they are contacted about you. Use your “good paper” too.
Resume: A one –two page document which is a factual list of objective information. Always begin with your name and contact information at the top of the page. Then divide you resume into sections: Education and Employment at a minimum, and other sections as needed Publications, Special Skills, and Volunteer Activities. In each section, list information in reverse chronological order. Use “good paper” typically called bonded, use white, off-white, very light beige, or grey paper with atypical type font such as Times New Roman. Don’t use anything smaller than 11 point font size. Don’t use too many styles, types of bullets, or small margins. Don’t write in the first person and use your official GPA and rank on your resume – employers can check this information.
Writing Sample: Five – ten pages is typical for length. It must be a legal writing sample, from law school or a job, which is your own work for legal jobs. If you want to use something from work you must get your employer’s permission. This does not have to be on good paper, just what comes out of the printer.
Transcript A copy from the registrar’s office is needed; you will need to request these in advance.
List of References: Typically three is sufficient. List them by title, name, mailing address, phone number and email. When choosing references, be sure they are familiar with your work and/or academic abilities. These are not personal references. It is a good idea to give your references a copy of your resume in case they are contacted about you. Use your “good paper” too.
Wednesday, August 13, 2008
How Do I Convey Confidence?
Some of the brightest, most honest, diligent, hard-working individuals will continually be overlooked for promotion in part because they do not convey confidence. How do we convey confidence? In the following ways:
1. Believe in yourself.
2. Dress for success. Be neat and professional. Pay attention to the details – polished shoes, hair and nails.
3. Prepare adequately for meetings and presentations. KNOW that you have done all the prep work you needed to.
4. Have a firm, not crushing, handshake.
5. Make eye contact. When you are speaking to someone, look them directly in the eye.
6. Pay attention to your body language. Stand up tall. Minimize distracting shifts from leg to leg and don’t sway back and forth. Sit on the front part of the chair to ensure you are sitting straight. Do not fiddle with items in your pocket, your jewelry or watch.
7. Pay attention to your voice. Project your voice and find your pace and rhythm when you are speaking. Use pauses for dramatic effect. Speak slowly and enunciate clearly. Watch out for “ums” and “uhs”, as well as “like”. Doing this indicates you are nervous.
8. Do not pose a statement as a question.
9. Do not use disclaimers to introduce your ideas; doing this completely undermines your perceived confidence and makes you sound unsure.
10. Do not use inappropriate words, such as expletives. Also be aware of your use of colloquialisms.
Thursday, July 31, 2008
Internet Presence – for Better or Worse
As a law student you are probably part of a social networking site such as Myspace or Facebook. As good as these sites are for keeping in touch with friends and sharing photos, they can be dangerous as you hunt for a job. All those favorite quotes, inside jokes, and photos that your friends enjoy and find funny can rub a potential employer the wrong way. A profile with too many references or photos about partying can make a law firm question your professionalism. So what can you do?
● Set your profile on private
● If that isn’t good enough shut it down while you look for a
job
● Be sure your friends use privacy filters too
● Ask friends to use a nickname for you in their postings,
not your actual name
● Ensure your personal webpage(s) exude professionalism
● Don’t put your website/blog address on your resume if the
content isn’t appropriate for employers
● Blog about a legal topic, become an expert
There are professional networking sites that are “user friendly”; these can be helpful in networking with friends of friends who are in the practice area you are interested in or in the geographic location of interest to you. The information in these profiles is basic i.e.: job and education.
When you become an attorney and join a firm it is likely that the firm will put you on their webpage. Typically, a brief biography or a resume summary is posted. You want to be sure the posted information is accurate and to update.
● Set your profile on private
● If that isn’t good enough shut it down while you look for a
job
● Be sure your friends use privacy filters too
● Ask friends to use a nickname for you in their postings,
not your actual name
● Ensure your personal webpage(s) exude professionalism
● Don’t put your website/blog address on your resume if the
content isn’t appropriate for employers
● Blog about a legal topic, become an expert
There are professional networking sites that are “user friendly”; these can be helpful in networking with friends of friends who are in the practice area you are interested in or in the geographic location of interest to you. The information in these profiles is basic i.e.: job and education.
When you become an attorney and join a firm it is likely that the firm will put you on their webpage. Typically, a brief biography or a resume summary is posted. You want to be sure the posted information is accurate and to update.
Thursday, July 24, 2008
The Thank You Note
According to the vast majority of employers, sending a thank you note after an interview is still important. It shows that you are grateful and appreciative of the opportunity to visit with them, and in this day and age, more and more employers are not seeing gratitude and appreciation from potential employees. So, take advantage of this opportunity to shine and send that thank you note.
Mailing the note is still the best way to go, as it takes more time and effort to do, and the employer realizes this. It’s just far too easy to tap out an email thank you. However, an email thank you is better than not sending one at all.
Given that we are going to mail the thank you note, the question often comes up as to whether the note should be typed, or handwritten. Most now say a nice, conservative card with a handwritten note is the best way to go. Caveat … if your handwriting is hideous, type/print it out.
Another frequent question about thank you notes is whether or not you can send a “group” thank you note if you were interviewed by a panel, or individually, but by more than one person. The quick answer is “No”. It’s always best to send an individual note to each person you interviewed with.
The biggest question about thank you notes concerns content. At a minimum, thank you notes MUST thank the person for his/her time and reiterate your interest in the position. Additionally, it’s always best if you are able to personalize the note a bit more by bringing out something positive from your interview. For example, you might say “I’m glad you feel that my medical background will help in the field of insurance defense.”
Finally, we are often asked when thank you notes should be mailed. The answer, within 24 hours of your interview. Period.
Remember, use this as a time to shine. Show your gratitude and eagerness to move forward with this employer. Also, since the employer will see this as another writing sample, make sure there are no typos or grammatical mistakes and that the name of the employer and attorney are spelled correctly.
According to the vast majority of employers, sending a thank you note after an interview is still important. It shows that you are grateful and appreciative of the opportunity to visit with them, and in this day and age, more and more employers are not seeing gratitude and appreciation from potential employees. So, take advantage of this opportunity to shine and send that thank you note.
Mailing the note is still the best way to go, as it takes more time and effort to do, and the employer realizes this. It’s just far too easy to tap out an email thank you. However, an email thank you is better than not sending one at all.
Given that we are going to mail the thank you note, the question often comes up as to whether the note should be typed, or handwritten. Most now say a nice, conservative card with a handwritten note is the best way to go. Caveat … if your handwriting is hideous, type/print it out.
Another frequent question about thank you notes is whether or not you can send a “group” thank you note if you were interviewed by a panel, or individually, but by more than one person. The quick answer is “No”. It’s always best to send an individual note to each person you interviewed with.
The biggest question about thank you notes concerns content. At a minimum, thank you notes MUST thank the person for his/her time and reiterate your interest in the position. Additionally, it’s always best if you are able to personalize the note a bit more by bringing out something positive from your interview. For example, you might say “I’m glad you feel that my medical background will help in the field of insurance defense.”
Finally, we are often asked when thank you notes should be mailed. The answer, within 24 hours of your interview. Period.
Remember, use this as a time to shine. Show your gratitude and eagerness to move forward with this employer. Also, since the employer will see this as another writing sample, make sure there are no typos or grammatical mistakes and that the name of the employer and attorney are spelled correctly.
Thursday, July 17, 2008
Tips for the Big Day (Bar Exam)
After all your studying is done and you think you can’t possibly learn any more, keep in mind these tips for the days of the bar exam:
Stay at a hotel. If you live more than 15 minutes from the test site or you have to travel through any of Tulsa’s road construction sites, consider staying at a nearby hotel.
Dress in layers. The room where the exam is given will be too cold or too hot, it is never just right. Also, wear shoes that won't make a lot of noise when you walk this will be annoying and distracting to everyone.
Don’t bring your cell phone. If you must bring one, turn OFF the ringer. Failure to do this may cause you to lose your test-taking privileges and will annoy everyone, including you, if it goes off.
If you will use a laptop, make sure it is in very good working order. Also, bring two of every peripheral thing that you might need. If you are allowed, use spell check.
If you will be handwriting, write legibly and follow directions. Try to spell correctly and use good grammar.
Bring more pens and pencils than you think you might need. Don’t forget an eraser.
Bring two watches. If you don’t, invariably yours will stop working and you don’t want to run out of time.
Bring your earplugs and use them. Noise will be distracting and people will walk around during the exam.
Don't talk about it. There will be people during the breaks discussing the questions on the exam. Avoid these discussions! A rehash of what has passed never does anyone any good, and everyone will have written a slightly different answer.
Don’t forget to eat. Go out for dinner after the first day. Eat well, go home or to your hotel room, flip through your flash cards/outline, and go to sleep early.
Relax after the exam. Take a vacation, just go somewhere. Go to the lake, hike, or see a movie. Just do something not related to the law - have fun.
Stay at a hotel. If you live more than 15 minutes from the test site or you have to travel through any of Tulsa’s road construction sites, consider staying at a nearby hotel.
Dress in layers. The room where the exam is given will be too cold or too hot, it is never just right. Also, wear shoes that won't make a lot of noise when you walk this will be annoying and distracting to everyone.
Don’t bring your cell phone. If you must bring one, turn OFF the ringer. Failure to do this may cause you to lose your test-taking privileges and will annoy everyone, including you, if it goes off.
If you will use a laptop, make sure it is in very good working order. Also, bring two of every peripheral thing that you might need. If you are allowed, use spell check.
If you will be handwriting, write legibly and follow directions. Try to spell correctly and use good grammar.
Bring more pens and pencils than you think you might need. Don’t forget an eraser.
Bring two watches. If you don’t, invariably yours will stop working and you don’t want to run out of time.
Bring your earplugs and use them. Noise will be distracting and people will walk around during the exam.
Don't talk about it. There will be people during the breaks discussing the questions on the exam. Avoid these discussions! A rehash of what has passed never does anyone any good, and everyone will have written a slightly different answer.
Don’t forget to eat. Go out for dinner after the first day. Eat well, go home or to your hotel room, flip through your flash cards/outline, and go to sleep early.
Relax after the exam. Take a vacation, just go somewhere. Go to the lake, hike, or see a movie. Just do something not related to the law - have fun.
Thursday, July 10, 2008
ARE YOU OVERCOMMITTED?
You can be over committed professionally and outside of the office. Does this sound like you? Maybe you want it all and are trying to have it all - at the same time. Perhaps it is better to have it all but not all at once. You may have:
● Too many clients
● Too many projects
● Too many leadership positions
● Too many speaking engagements
● Too many conferences
Usually people can maintain the juggling act of overcommitment for awhile before things start to fall apart, then the negatives begin to show:
● Work product declines, quality and quantity
● Communication and timeliness go by the wayside
● Business and personal relationships suffer
● Commitments are missed
● You become someone not to be counted on
● You suffer from overwork and stress
● Lack of sleep becomes a problem
So how can you avoid being overcommitted and learn how to say no. Reasons you may want to say no:
● Scattering energies and accepting all invitations can
cause others to undervalue your participation
● You could wind up spending 90% of your time on low priority projects
● For each opportunity you accept there will be others that you will have to decline
So how do you say no to other people, activities, and your boss? You can say no without using the actual word. Basically, it a yes but situation so figure out which works best in a given situation:
● Say something like: “That's an interesting project. I'm
really busy with the XYZ assignment right now, so let me
know if you want me to re-prioritize.”
● Suggest a timeline that works better with your other commitments
● Suggest another specific person who could do the project
● Seek assistance, if you can only do the work with help ask for it up front
● Let them know what else you have going on they may not know about
Sometimes to achieve a bit of balance for something very important to you ie: your child’s birthday or your 10th anniversary, shut off the phone and turn off the BlackBerry. Try to safeguard those times and live in the moment.
● Too many clients
● Too many projects
● Too many leadership positions
● Too many speaking engagements
● Too many conferences
Usually people can maintain the juggling act of overcommitment for awhile before things start to fall apart, then the negatives begin to show:
● Work product declines, quality and quantity
● Communication and timeliness go by the wayside
● Business and personal relationships suffer
● Commitments are missed
● You become someone not to be counted on
● You suffer from overwork and stress
● Lack of sleep becomes a problem
So how can you avoid being overcommitted and learn how to say no. Reasons you may want to say no:
● Scattering energies and accepting all invitations can
cause others to undervalue your participation
● You could wind up spending 90% of your time on low priority projects
● For each opportunity you accept there will be others that you will have to decline
So how do you say no to other people, activities, and your boss? You can say no without using the actual word. Basically, it a yes but situation so figure out which works best in a given situation:
● Say something like: “That's an interesting project. I'm
really busy with the XYZ assignment right now, so let me
know if you want me to re-prioritize.”
● Suggest a timeline that works better with your other commitments
● Suggest another specific person who could do the project
● Seek assistance, if you can only do the work with help ask for it up front
● Let them know what else you have going on they may not know about
Sometimes to achieve a bit of balance for something very important to you ie: your child’s birthday or your 10th anniversary, shut off the phone and turn off the BlackBerry. Try to safeguard those times and live in the moment.
Tuesday, July 8, 2008
MANAGING STRESS … YOU CAN DO IT!
Stress. Reports show that 20 – 25% of lawyers suffer from stress so severe that it impairs their practice. As a professional, you MUST learn to manage your stress. Managing your stress involves identifying the source, reflecting on why this stress is present and invoking a game plan on how to deal with it.
Stress can have an external or internal source. If you are, and have always been, a worrier, now is the time to get a grip on this habit. Why? Because to the people you work with, your level of stress often appears disproportionate. This may cause your supervisor to worry, thinking you are unable to cope with the stress of practice/work, resulting in him/her giving the better projects to others, keeping you from client contact and passing you over for bonuses and promotions. This habit can be unlearned with attention and perseverance.
Another example of an internal stress source is the Type A, hypercompetitive, perfectionist. If this is you, you most likely set high standards, don’t like making mistakes and are accustomed to outperforming your peers. When starting a new job, this attitude will cause stress. Your new supervisor doesn’t expect you to be perfect; he/she understands there is a learning curve. Take advantage of your time as a newbie – see it as a learning opportunity to ask questions of the seasoned attorneys and learn from them.
If your stress source is external, stemming from working on a case you personally find disagreeable, disliking your client, or the human drama associated with your practice or a particular case, remember to keep breathing and to keep an emotional distance from the client/case. Don’t hang on to negativity.
Talk to others to get ideas about how they deal with stress and try those on for size. Realize, however, that we all manage stress differently, so if those ideas don’t work for you, investigate other alternatives. Finally, if your stress level is consistently high for a prolonged period of time, please consider seeking the perspective of a trained mental health professional.
Stress. Reports show that 20 – 25% of lawyers suffer from stress so severe that it impairs their practice. As a professional, you MUST learn to manage your stress. Managing your stress involves identifying the source, reflecting on why this stress is present and invoking a game plan on how to deal with it.
Stress can have an external or internal source. If you are, and have always been, a worrier, now is the time to get a grip on this habit. Why? Because to the people you work with, your level of stress often appears disproportionate. This may cause your supervisor to worry, thinking you are unable to cope with the stress of practice/work, resulting in him/her giving the better projects to others, keeping you from client contact and passing you over for bonuses and promotions. This habit can be unlearned with attention and perseverance.
Another example of an internal stress source is the Type A, hypercompetitive, perfectionist. If this is you, you most likely set high standards, don’t like making mistakes and are accustomed to outperforming your peers. When starting a new job, this attitude will cause stress. Your new supervisor doesn’t expect you to be perfect; he/she understands there is a learning curve. Take advantage of your time as a newbie – see it as a learning opportunity to ask questions of the seasoned attorneys and learn from them.
If your stress source is external, stemming from working on a case you personally find disagreeable, disliking your client, or the human drama associated with your practice or a particular case, remember to keep breathing and to keep an emotional distance from the client/case. Don’t hang on to negativity.
Talk to others to get ideas about how they deal with stress and try those on for size. Realize, however, that we all manage stress differently, so if those ideas don’t work for you, investigate other alternatives. Finally, if your stress level is consistently high for a prolonged period of time, please consider seeking the perspective of a trained mental health professional.
Monday, June 23, 2008
BE THE STAR WE KNOW YOU ARE
Becoming a STAR at work involves more than just turning out a great work product. You will quickly notice that the successful people in your office do the following:
1. Have a positive attitude;
2. Get involved to solve problems, without regard to whether this falls under their job description;
3. Participate in meetings, making sure what they have to say is of value and is said comfortably and with confidence;
4. Share ideas they have that will benefit their employer as a whole;
5. Decline the opportunity to involve themselves with office politics or disagreements/conflicts among fellow workers;
6. Share the credit for a job well done, both personally and publicly, with those that assisted in getting the task completed; and
7. Assert themselves by professionally and humbly making their superiors aware of their talents, abilities and successes.
Practicing these simple ideas, along with continually producing a stellar work product, will make you the STAR we know you are!!
1. Have a positive attitude;
2. Get involved to solve problems, without regard to whether this falls under their job description;
3. Participate in meetings, making sure what they have to say is of value and is said comfortably and with confidence;
4. Share ideas they have that will benefit their employer as a whole;
5. Decline the opportunity to involve themselves with office politics or disagreements/conflicts among fellow workers;
6. Share the credit for a job well done, both personally and publicly, with those that assisted in getting the task completed; and
7. Assert themselves by professionally and humbly making their superiors aware of their talents, abilities and successes.
Practicing these simple ideas, along with continually producing a stellar work product, will make you the STAR we know you are!!
Thursday, June 12, 2008
Are You a Good Summer Employee?
If you are going to be a good summer associate or law clerk, do your best to remember that the entire summer is really one long interview. This means you should begin building your professional reputation and strive for a “rebuttable presumption of excellence in all things” as stated by Kari Anne Tuohy of KAT Consulting and a former law firm recruiter.
You are there to work. Be a bit early and stay a bit late - but don’t go overboard with this unless have to for an assignment. Don’t be the first to leave. When you get an assignment digest it, ask questions, do it, turn it in on time, and ask for feedback. Remember your work product should be excellent – no typos. Be sure to research fully, proofread, check cites, use IRAC (it works), and if you are unsure of format get an example. If you make a mistake own up to it and fix it, that’s professional.
Research tools, be sure you know which research tools your employer has available and whether there are any limits on your use of commercial on-line sources. You may need to find out where the closest law library is located. Don’t forget to shepardize. Keep in mind that you are finding an answer to a clients question or situation.
Ask for feedback. Seek out the attorney, who gave you the assignment, see them personally when possible. Ask to hear back if you aren’t on point or if more information is needed. If you don’t hear back about your work product, follow up with email. But, don’t be overbearing or annoying about it.
If you have too much work assigned, talk to someone about it. You will be expected to finish your work in a timely fashion and certainly before you leave your summer job for the fall semester. Find out if you can use support staff, if so use them sparingly. They may enable you to catch up.
Be Enthusiastic. Accept your assignments and do them. Maintain a positive attitude. Be friendly, with everyone at the firm. Support staff have more influence than you think! Go to lunch with attorneys when they invite you, it’s a great way to learn more about the firm.
You should socialize. It is part of the “face time” you need to put in so that more attorneys get to know you. Go to as many social events as you can but you MUST still get your work done. Don’t ever get drunk. Be yourself but think before you speak. Be polite; mind your “p’s and q’s”. Use good table manners. Only bring your spouse or significant other, when they are invited.
Dress well. Suit up on the first day. Then always wear courtroom attire, until/unless you are told not to. Guys, keep a jacket and tie handy in case you get asked to go to a deposition, meet clients, or go to court. No loud clothing, the law is still a conservative profession. Don’t wear open toed shoes, and ladies, it’s better to wear pantyhose, even in the summer. Don’t wear really short skirts. Always be neat in your personal appearance.
Show gratitude. Thank everyone. Thank the attorneys who take you out to lunch, provide you with advice, or feedback. Thank support staff for assisting you. Thank anyone who hosts a social event that you attend. Firms have mentioned not showing gratitude can be a determent to your career.
People will talk about you. The attorneys are supposed to, in order to make a hiring decision. They are not talking about you as gossip or for bad reasons. Don’t be paranoid.
Read. Look at the local paper to be in tune with what’s happening, especially if you are in another geographic location. This will provide you with things to talk about. The sports and business sections offer good talking points.
You are there to work. Be a bit early and stay a bit late - but don’t go overboard with this unless have to for an assignment. Don’t be the first to leave. When you get an assignment digest it, ask questions, do it, turn it in on time, and ask for feedback. Remember your work product should be excellent – no typos. Be sure to research fully, proofread, check cites, use IRAC (it works), and if you are unsure of format get an example. If you make a mistake own up to it and fix it, that’s professional.
Research tools, be sure you know which research tools your employer has available and whether there are any limits on your use of commercial on-line sources. You may need to find out where the closest law library is located. Don’t forget to shepardize. Keep in mind that you are finding an answer to a clients question or situation.
Ask for feedback. Seek out the attorney, who gave you the assignment, see them personally when possible. Ask to hear back if you aren’t on point or if more information is needed. If you don’t hear back about your work product, follow up with email. But, don’t be overbearing or annoying about it.
If you have too much work assigned, talk to someone about it. You will be expected to finish your work in a timely fashion and certainly before you leave your summer job for the fall semester. Find out if you can use support staff, if so use them sparingly. They may enable you to catch up.
Be Enthusiastic. Accept your assignments and do them. Maintain a positive attitude. Be friendly, with everyone at the firm. Support staff have more influence than you think! Go to lunch with attorneys when they invite you, it’s a great way to learn more about the firm.
You should socialize. It is part of the “face time” you need to put in so that more attorneys get to know you. Go to as many social events as you can but you MUST still get your work done. Don’t ever get drunk. Be yourself but think before you speak. Be polite; mind your “p’s and q’s”. Use good table manners. Only bring your spouse or significant other, when they are invited.
Dress well. Suit up on the first day. Then always wear courtroom attire, until/unless you are told not to. Guys, keep a jacket and tie handy in case you get asked to go to a deposition, meet clients, or go to court. No loud clothing, the law is still a conservative profession. Don’t wear open toed shoes, and ladies, it’s better to wear pantyhose, even in the summer. Don’t wear really short skirts. Always be neat in your personal appearance.
Show gratitude. Thank everyone. Thank the attorneys who take you out to lunch, provide you with advice, or feedback. Thank support staff for assisting you. Thank anyone who hosts a social event that you attend. Firms have mentioned not showing gratitude can be a determent to your career.
People will talk about you. The attorneys are supposed to, in order to make a hiring decision. They are not talking about you as gossip or for bad reasons. Don’t be paranoid.
Read. Look at the local paper to be in tune with what’s happening, especially if you are in another geographic location. This will provide you with things to talk about. The sports and business sections offer good talking points.
Monday, June 9, 2008
Getting Assignment Feedback
Whether you are a law clerk or new lawyer one important thing you will need to do is learn how to get and accept feedback. Getting feedback is important because it is a gauge of how well you are doing your work, if it is on point with what has been asked, and if it is the way the firm wants it.
Oftentimes, you will need to ask for feedback. If some isn’t provided, do so. Timing is everything; you will need to figure out the best time to seek feedback from specific individuals. Is first thing in the day, afternoon, or at the very end of the day the best time? Also, figure out the best way to communicate – is it via email, phone, or in person? Ask these questions when you get an assignment so you know when and how to ask follow up questions. You will also use this information to seek feedback. Once, you have figured out the timing and style to seek feedback, determine what you will ask.
You may want to ask specific questions: “Did I provide enough analysis/detail/case law/statutory law?”; “Was it organized usefully/did it need more/should I have included copies of the cases or statutes?”; “Would you have approached this differently?” Or you may want to ask more open ended questions: “What did I do well/where do I need to improve?”
Upon receiving feedback be open minded and use it as a learning tool, this is really what feedback is about. Actively listen and don’t be defensive. Don’t be afraid to ask clarifying questions if need be. Listen and learn then put what you learn into practice. Remember that feedback is for you to use to make your work the best it can possibly be. Feedback is part of learning how to do your job.
Oftentimes, you will need to ask for feedback. If some isn’t provided, do so. Timing is everything; you will need to figure out the best time to seek feedback from specific individuals. Is first thing in the day, afternoon, or at the very end of the day the best time? Also, figure out the best way to communicate – is it via email, phone, or in person? Ask these questions when you get an assignment so you know when and how to ask follow up questions. You will also use this information to seek feedback. Once, you have figured out the timing and style to seek feedback, determine what you will ask.
You may want to ask specific questions: “Did I provide enough analysis/detail/case law/statutory law?”; “Was it organized usefully/did it need more/should I have included copies of the cases or statutes?”; “Would you have approached this differently?” Or you may want to ask more open ended questions: “What did I do well/where do I need to improve?”
Upon receiving feedback be open minded and use it as a learning tool, this is really what feedback is about. Actively listen and don’t be defensive. Don’t be afraid to ask clarifying questions if need be. Listen and learn then put what you learn into practice. Remember that feedback is for you to use to make your work the best it can possibly be. Feedback is part of learning how to do your job.
Thursday, May 29, 2008
NETWORKING...Where?
You may have heard the word networking in connection with finding a job, finding a new job, or developing business and been scared off. The way to overcome this and feel more natural during networking opportunities is to practice.
The relationships you have when you entered law school and those you build along the way are extremely valuable sources of contacts and information. A good portion of jobs are still obtained the old fashioned way: by networking. According to NALP’s Jobs and JD’s Class of 2006: those who went to work law firms, of all sizes, 16% received jobs through referrals (networking) and 19% received a job through self initiated contact (often the result of networking), thus over 33% of all law firm jobs are received through networking. For those receiving jobs in smaller firms the number is even higher. Those who went to work for small law firms of 2-10 attorneys 27% received an offer due to a referral (networking) and another 25% received an offer due to self initiated contact (often the result of networking), this means 52% of these jobs were obtained using networking!
In these instances networking means picking up the phone, writing a letter, or calling on someone who helps point you in the right direction. This is networking at its best. If you do not think you attend any events in which networking could be advantageous, you are wrong! You are forgetting that many people know, work with, or are related to lawyers. There are many opportunities to network and you should also create opportunities for yourself. Opportunities to network include:
• Attending a house of worship;
• Community activities;
• Volunteer work;
• Attending social functions;
• Working
In addition, talk to:
• Family members;
• Your spouse’s family members;
• Friends (law school, college, life long);
• Former co-workers;
• Neighbors;
• Your dentist, doctor, hairdresser et al
Essentially everyone you know is part of your network. All of these situations and people are your own built in network. You can also create a network for yourself:
• Join various bar associations (most will allow student members);
• Join Inns of Court;
• Join the Young Lawyers Division;
• Attend Continuing Legal Education courses on topics that interest you;
• Attend career service programs;
• Participate in mentor programs;
• Play sports (softball, soccer, golf…)
In all these settings you want to strive to meet as many people as possible. When you introduce yourself, be sure to tell them a bit about yourself. Make sure that you mention your interests and accomplishments. Let people know who you are and what you hope to do, as a career. The more people you talk to the more people who can point you in the direction of a job opportunity.
Once someone gives you a lead, follow up. Remember, your contacts expect you to act on their suggestions. They may pave the way for you with a call of their own and you don't want to leave them hanging or put them in an awkward situation. Acknowledge all your leads. A brief letter of thanks will go a long way toward ensuring your sources remain viable in the future.
The relationships you have when you entered law school and those you build along the way are extremely valuable sources of contacts and information. A good portion of jobs are still obtained the old fashioned way: by networking. According to NALP’s Jobs and JD’s Class of 2006: those who went to work law firms, of all sizes, 16% received jobs through referrals (networking) and 19% received a job through self initiated contact (often the result of networking), thus over 33% of all law firm jobs are received through networking. For those receiving jobs in smaller firms the number is even higher. Those who went to work for small law firms of 2-10 attorneys 27% received an offer due to a referral (networking) and another 25% received an offer due to self initiated contact (often the result of networking), this means 52% of these jobs were obtained using networking!
In these instances networking means picking up the phone, writing a letter, or calling on someone who helps point you in the right direction. This is networking at its best. If you do not think you attend any events in which networking could be advantageous, you are wrong! You are forgetting that many people know, work with, or are related to lawyers. There are many opportunities to network and you should also create opportunities for yourself. Opportunities to network include:
• Attending a house of worship;
• Community activities;
• Volunteer work;
• Attending social functions;
• Working
In addition, talk to:
• Family members;
• Your spouse’s family members;
• Friends (law school, college, life long);
• Former co-workers;
• Neighbors;
• Your dentist, doctor, hairdresser et al
Essentially everyone you know is part of your network. All of these situations and people are your own built in network. You can also create a network for yourself:
• Join various bar associations (most will allow student members);
• Join Inns of Court;
• Join the Young Lawyers Division;
• Attend Continuing Legal Education courses on topics that interest you;
• Attend career service programs;
• Participate in mentor programs;
• Play sports (softball, soccer, golf…)
In all these settings you want to strive to meet as many people as possible. When you introduce yourself, be sure to tell them a bit about yourself. Make sure that you mention your interests and accomplishments. Let people know who you are and what you hope to do, as a career. The more people you talk to the more people who can point you in the direction of a job opportunity.
Once someone gives you a lead, follow up. Remember, your contacts expect you to act on their suggestions. They may pave the way for you with a call of their own and you don't want to leave them hanging or put them in an awkward situation. Acknowledge all your leads. A brief letter of thanks will go a long way toward ensuring your sources remain viable in the future.
Thursday, May 22, 2008
SATISFYING YOUR FIRST CLIENT
Your first client will be your supervising attorney. Your top priority should be to make his or her life easier. How do you do that? By adhering to the following rules:
1. Be ethical and professional
2. Be appropriate in all client contacts
3. Produce a useful work product
4. Manage your time and your work load efficiently
5. Have exceptional communication skills
6. Have a “can do”, team player attitude
7. Be available and responsive
When a supervising attorney asks you to help on a project, go prepared to meet with him or her, take good notes and ask questions. Find out the purpose of the assignment and the form he/she wants the work product to take. Before you leave make sure you find out when the assignment is due and whether or not the supervising attorney wants you to check back in with a preliminary report.
Respond to a supervising attorney’s communication at all times. Let your supervising attorney know how to reach you when you’re away from the office, inform your assistant when you’re going to lunch and when you’ll be back and be sure to let your assistant know when you’re in a meeting and whether or not you can be disturbed.
Should you have a question about the assignment once you’ve begun and the supervising attorney is swamped, instead of barging in his/her office and asking your question, check with the supervising attorney’s assistant to see when he/she would be available to address your question. Conversely, if your research uncovers some nasty news, be sure to deliver this information immediately and in person. If your supervising attorney is unavailable for a face-to-face meeting, at least convey the news by phone. It's also important to contact your supervising attorney immediately if you discover that you are unable to meet the deadline set by him/her.
Remember, what you do and how you do it counts. If you turn in a bullet-proof work product and interact smoothly with your supervising attorney, you’ll get more responsibility sooner and be on your way to establishing a stellar reputation.
Thursday, May 15, 2008
Writing, Writing, and More Writing
You will be well prepared to write and research while in law school but you may not be prepared for the vast array of types of writing attorneys produce. Attorneys draft letters to opposing counsel or clients; opinion letters; contracts; discovery requests; motions; memos, and briefs to name a few.
A memo written for school is often neutral, at work it is the first step towards advocacy. A work memo should take a stand. In school you are typically given facts which remain static. At work you will need to do factual investigation and/or discovery. In real life, client wishes or goals often change. It is imperative to learn the facts of your case and apply the law to your facts.
You need to figure out who your audience is. Who will be the first to read your document and who else may? Will it be a client, another attorney, or the judge? Once you determine your audience figure out what they know about the matter, what their concerns are, and the matters importance to them. Keep in mind that your work may be sent on, to a client or others, without any editing. This means that if you ever submit a draft be sure to mark on each page of the document that it is a draft. Only submit a draft if one was truly asked for and you confirmed this in an email.
Figure out the purpose of your work, who will it be used? This will help focus your research. It will help you decide if you need to address both the pros and cons of the issue or if you just need to seek the best arguments that assist your client.
What is the context of your assignment? Try to find out what the reader will be doing while reading your work. This can help you organize your writing, use an outline that helps too. Figuring out the context can also help you with the length of your document and where to put the summary.
You also need to be very clear on when your work product is due. Sometimes there are very tight deadlines that can not be changed. These deadlines may be due to a client’s expectations or demands or to a court deadline.
Don’t underestimate how grammar and misspellings take away form your work product. They can make you look sloppy, like you don’t care, and if oft repeated an idiot. Therefore, don’t forget to double check both grammar and spelling, using spell check isn’t enough – proofread. Also, do a double check to make sure your citations are done correctly.
If you turn over work product in hardcopy, be sure the paper is neat and clean. Presentation is part of professionalism.
How can you home writing skills while in law school? Take advanced writing courses, take your seminar paper seriously, take drafting courses, do a clinic. In other words take the time to expose yourself to different types of lawyerly writings while in school.
Writing skills are important, the attorneys trying to prosecute Barry Bonds found out the hard way: U.S. District Judge Susan Illston ordered prosecutors to rewrite their indictment because multiple alleged lies were lumped into individual charges. News of having to rewrite made it into the media!
A memo written for school is often neutral, at work it is the first step towards advocacy. A work memo should take a stand. In school you are typically given facts which remain static. At work you will need to do factual investigation and/or discovery. In real life, client wishes or goals often change. It is imperative to learn the facts of your case and apply the law to your facts.
You need to figure out who your audience is. Who will be the first to read your document and who else may? Will it be a client, another attorney, or the judge? Once you determine your audience figure out what they know about the matter, what their concerns are, and the matters importance to them. Keep in mind that your work may be sent on, to a client or others, without any editing. This means that if you ever submit a draft be sure to mark on each page of the document that it is a draft. Only submit a draft if one was truly asked for and you confirmed this in an email.
Figure out the purpose of your work, who will it be used? This will help focus your research. It will help you decide if you need to address both the pros and cons of the issue or if you just need to seek the best arguments that assist your client.
What is the context of your assignment? Try to find out what the reader will be doing while reading your work. This can help you organize your writing, use an outline that helps too. Figuring out the context can also help you with the length of your document and where to put the summary.
You also need to be very clear on when your work product is due. Sometimes there are very tight deadlines that can not be changed. These deadlines may be due to a client’s expectations or demands or to a court deadline.
Don’t underestimate how grammar and misspellings take away form your work product. They can make you look sloppy, like you don’t care, and if oft repeated an idiot. Therefore, don’t forget to double check both grammar and spelling, using spell check isn’t enough – proofread. Also, do a double check to make sure your citations are done correctly.
If you turn over work product in hardcopy, be sure the paper is neat and clean. Presentation is part of professionalism.
How can you home writing skills while in law school? Take advanced writing courses, take your seminar paper seriously, take drafting courses, do a clinic. In other words take the time to expose yourself to different types of lawyerly writings while in school.
Writing skills are important, the attorneys trying to prosecute Barry Bonds found out the hard way: U.S. District Judge Susan Illston ordered prosecutors to rewrite their indictment because multiple alleged lies were lumped into individual charges. News of having to rewrite made it into the media!
Monday, May 12, 2008
DRESSING THE PART
How you dress sends a distinct message about you, and the initial impression someone has of you is indeed a lasting one. In Mary Mitchell’s book The First Five Minutes, she states “judgments that people make about us in the first moments after we meet them are more strongly influenced by how we look than by anything else.”
Our profession is a conservative one, and your appearance matters regardless of whether you are a volunteer, paid law clerk or attorney. If you want to be taken seriously, look the part, and be aware that some will draw conclusions about your abilities based on what you wear
The overarching general rules for both men and women include: no piercings (except earrings for women), no visible tattoos, keep nails relatively short and well-groomed, keep hair well-groomed and make sure your shoes are polished. Also, remember that you’re not in school – carry a briefcase and not a backpack.
To save money on professional attire shop sales, stay away from fads and trendy clothing, and buy complimentary colors so you can interchange items. Another good bit of advice is to buy good quality clothing that you can wear for awhile instead of buying cheap clothing that you’ll have to replace shortly. Quality, classic clothing will take you a long way.
Once you are at the office, pay attention to what other attorneys wear and dress accordingly. Until you get an idea of how you should dress, it’s always best to err on the more conservative, formal side. You will never get criticized for dressing too conservatively when you start your new job. Further, know what “business casual” means in your office, as it tends to differ from office to office. If you’re not sure, ask! One thing is certain, however – business casual is not the same thing as law school casual. And remember that business casual is not appropriate when you will be having contact with a client.
Remember that Boy Scout motto, “Be prepared.” Always have something formal at work in case your plans for the day change and you’re asked to go to court or meet with a client at the last minute.
Friday, May 9, 2008
PASS THAT BAR EXAM
The start of your legal career depends on you passing a bar exam. The success of your passing a bar exam depends on your preparation. The success of your preparation depends on your ability to plan and stick to your study strategy.
The forewarned is the forearmed.
Plan out your bar study activities. Make sure that you are actively participating in the Bar Review sessions that you are attending. Just attending is not enough. You have to prepare before each session by reading the topic outline. Attend the session and truly be present. Review after the session and finally do those practice questions. Do this over and over for each topic area. Be dedicated and make studying for the bar exam your full time job. Seriously, plan on spending approximately 10 hours each day studying.
That being said, don’t forget the importance of balance, and keeping to your normal, everyday habits/activities. If you’re a runner, keep running. If you’re in a book club, keep going to your meetings. If you have a set day each week that you have dinner with your in-laws, keep that date. And, by all means, don’t try to quit smoking while studying for the bar exam. Try to stay as normal as possible with your life and sleep habits.
To prepare for the exam environment, buy your earplugs ahead of time and use them while you’re studying. Get used to them – it will take a bit. Practice answering test questions with an imposed time limit. Practice not jiggling your legs while you’re taking those test questions … you don’t want your table buddy to be upset with you. If you plan to write your answers (as opposed to typing), practice writing for long stretches of time to prepare for a full day of writing. If you plan to type, make sure that you have a dependable laptop.
Day of the exam … dress in layers, don’t wear perfume/cologne and be positive. Think about all the time you’ve put into studying and know that you’ve done your best and that you are prepared! Most importantly, BREATHE.
If you have questions about any subject or just need advice during your preparations for the bar exam, please feel free to call Elizabeth Odell at (918) 631-3990 (or email at Elizabeth-odell@utulsa.edu). She is available all summer if you need her assistance.
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