Conducting a legal job search when you’re 50 or older poses some additional challenges. Hiring managers often pass on résumés of senior-level attorneys, assuming they expect a large paycheck, or that they won’t fit into the organizational structure of the legal department.
Here are some tips on marketing yourself:
- Prepare for a longer process. It takes an average of 22 weeks for someone over 55 to find a new position, compared with a much shorter time for attorneys at the lower end of the career experience spectrum. And the higher up on the career ladder you are, the fewer openings you’ll find. Setting your expectations realistically will help maintain a positive outlook.
- Packaging. What is your niche? Having a specialty makes it much easier to get your foot in the door. The majority of job openings seek a particular skill set that the legal department needs. Ironically, once on board, in-house counsel tend to handle a wide variety of matters.
- The Right Recruiters. Once you’ve identified your specialty, it’s wise to target recruiters who focus on that area. They’re likely to have a higher profile and stronger relationships in the industry.
- Networking. Expanding your business and social circles increases the odds of hearing about new openings and getting referrals. Sites such as LinkedIn.com and Plaxo really work!
- TECHNOLOGY. This is crucial. To combat age bias, you must be knowledgeable about all the basics (Outlook, Excel, Word at a minimum). Better yet, get up to speed on instant messaging and blackberries.
- First impressions count. Everything on the outside conveys a message. A contemporary style can erase the impression that you’re stuck in a different generation.
