BLS Career Development

2011-09-05T19:28:00.000-05:00

Social media has its pitfalls, to be sure. But this article shows why using LinkedIn in your job search might be worthwhile.

Marketing Yourself for a Small Firm Position

2011-08-03T11:53:00.000-05:00

This post, written from the perspective of a new lawyer who started his own practice, gives good insight into the different approach one might take when applying to smaller firms.

Legal Trends

2011-05-13T16:13:00.000-05:00

One thing to consider when charting the course to your future career is looking at what practice areas are "hot" and making yourself more marketable in those fields. This article discusses some trends in the legal profession right now.

Thinking Through Interviews

2011-05-10T14:46:00.000-05:00

Whether you are seeking your first full-time position, plan to participate in OCI, or just know there will be interviews sometime in your future, this article is a good guide for thinking through the whole interviewing process.

My Former Greek Life

2011-05-03T16:02:00.000-05:00

You might feel like the days of enjoying frat parties are long gone as you languish in the library, but don't let those undergrad connections go to waste. This post discusses leveraging your fraternity or sorority experience in your job search.

The Most Dreaded Interview Question

2011-04-18T16:42:00.000-05:00

If your greatest weakness is answering the what-is-your-greatest-weakness question, then this article from Vault will provide some helpful insight.

Attributes to Cultivate

2011-03-14T08:45:00.000-05:00

There is more to being a successful attorney than knowing the law. This article discusses what impresses an employer - even though it will never show up on a transcript.

Hindsight is 20/20

2011-02-25T09:34:00.000-06:00

On this blog post from Beyond Hearsay attorneys share what they wish they would have known in law school about building their careers.

Cover Letters

2011-01-20T09:27:00.000-06:00

People often find cover letters to be the most intimidating part of the application process. But with these helpful pointers from PSLawNet, you, too, can write a letter that dazzles!

Crowded Rooms

2010-11-16T14:17:00.000-06:00

In my mind this does not fall into the category of "professional behavior" but is just plain ol' good behavior. Here is what the folks at the Culture and Manners Institute have to say about saving seats:

In the crowded gate area in the airline terminal there are few empty seats. A tiny woman with dark hair places her laptop on one seat with her bag in front of it and leaves an empty seat next to it where she plans to sit. Then she moves to another set of seats and sits and chats with two co-workers. An older man comes along toting his luggage and makes for the empty seat. She stops him and says, “Oh no – that’s mine.” The man pauses and looks at her sitting in the other seat, then shuffles on.

No one should be able to hog three seats in a crowded gate.

In adult life, there is no such thing as “I called it!” There is no such thing as “this seat is saved” when the seating area is filled, when the train or bus is filled, when the theater is filled. If your friend or kin has not arrived, that is not the problem of the person who is there and looking for a place to sit down. Your bag, no matter what kind of day it's had in the underbelly of the airplane or going through security, does not warrant a seat of its own.

Make room for others. Place bags on the floor or on your lap. Give up your own seat for those who are elderly, frail, pregnant, juggling small children or anyone who looks like they could really use it. Rather than say, "Do you want this seat?" say, "Please take this seat."

Salary Negotiation

2010-09-20T17:05:00.000-05:00

While you might feel you are willing to take a job at any pay level right now, it is good to go into an interview prepared to 'talk turkey.' This article gives suggestions about negotiating if given a low offer, and we are happy to provide data to support your negotiation.

Firm Fit

2010-09-13T11:15:00.000-05:00

After looking through their websites and print materials, how can you determine if that firm is really a good fit for you? This article has just the question to ask.

Time to Flee the Big City?

2010-09-13T11:12:00.000-05:00

This article discusses the advantages of starting your practice in a rural area.

What Not to Wear

2010-08-24T15:14:00.000-05:00

You probably think I am too concerned with this topic, but what you wear in the workplace can impact how you are perceived. This is what the folks at Culture and Manners Institute have to say:

If you could command a higher salary or get promoted by dressing a certain way, would you do it? When it comes to fashion in the workplace, modest is hottest.

If you show too much skin (or undergarments), others will not see the person inside nor hear your ideas. Ladies, if you want to move up in the management ranks, trade in those low necked cotton t-shirts or skimpy spaghetti strapped tops for a collared blouse. Gentlemen, stop wearing clothes that are too tight to show off the guns and pull up your low-hanging drawers. Everybody, save the flip-flops for the beach.

Never let a poorly chosen outfit speak louder than you. If you want to advance in your career, dress so people respect you, not inspect you.

Tips for Social Networking

2010-08-06T14:12:00.000-05:00

Facebook, Twitter, LinkedIn, and other social networking sites can be great avenues for making connections - potentially even resulting in a new job. However, they are only effective if used in a professional manner. Take a look at these tips from NALP for developing your professional online presence.

10 Deadly Sins

2010-08-05T15:17:00.000-05:00

This article offers some good perspective on mistakes to avoid as a new associate.

Where the Jobs Are

2010-07-28T15:24:00.000-05:00

This site has charts of federal hiring predictions in a number of fields, including legal.

Message from Equal Justice Works

2010-07-27T09:50:00.000-05:00

Please join us for a webinar on August 3, 2010 at 2:00 p.m. EDT to learn what goes into a strong Equal Justice Works Fellowship application. The webinar will cover:

Who is eligible to apply for an Equal Justice Works Fellowship (Candidate, Project, Host Organization)

The benefits of a Fellowship and the Host Organization’s responsibilities
How the application process works
Tips in creating a successful application that include project description, candidate background, and host organization background.

To register for the webinar please follow this link: https://www1.gotomeeting.com/register/429669497

Potential Funding in Texas for 2011 Equal Justice Works Fellowships

The Equal Justice Works Fellowship Program provides financial and other forms of support to lawyers working on innovative legal projects throughout the U.S. The two-year Fellowship offers salary support (up to $39,000 annually), loan repayment assistance, and a national training and leadership development program.

Equal Justice Works recruits law firms, corporations, bar associations, foundations and individuals to fund most of our Fellowships. We refer to these funding partners as "sponsors."

This year, we have sponsor interest in Texas.

We strongly encourage any candidates interested in working in Texas for two years beginning next fall to consider submitting an application this fall.

More information and the 2011 Equal Justice Works Fellowships application is now available at www.equaljusticeworks.org/programs/fellowships/.

The application deadline is September 15, 2010, at 5:00 p.m. EDT.
If you have any questions, please email fellowships@equaljusticeworks.org or call 202.466.3686 x202.

Don’t Miss our Webinar on August 2, 2010 at 2:00 p.m. EDT

To register for the webinar please follow this link: https://www1.gotomeeting.com/register/429669497

Please direct any questions or technical issues about the webinar to:
Robert Andreozzi
Equal Justice Works
intern2@equaljusticeworks.org
(202) 466-3686 ext.103

Alternatives with a JD

2010-07-01T13:27:00.000-05:00

Getting frustrated with the current legal market? This article discusses some alternatives to a traditional practice that still put your legal training to use.

What floor?

2010-06-29T13:01:00.000-05:00

I get weekly etiquette tips e-mailed to me from the Culture and Manners Institute. I'm not even sure how I got on their list, but I like reviewing the e-mails for any good nuggets. This week's tip addresses elevator etiquette:

Elevator rules are simple: business etiquette is gender neutral -- in business, the person closest to the door exits the elevator first. All other times, social etiquette dictates that gentlemen stand aside and let the ladies on and off the elevator first and everyone stands aside for the elderly or those needing extra time. If you are waiting to board the elevator, allow those coming off the elevator to exit first.

Hold the door for people trying to board or disembark; do not hold the door to make plans for the evening with someone outside the elevator, while others are waiting. If you are standing next to the control panel, offer to push someone's button (though not in those words). If you are at the back of the elevator, do not try to reach across everyone to hit the button yourself, ask nicely for someone to select your floor. If you are alone in an elevator with big mirrors and you decide to primp, check your teeth or make other adjustments, please keep in mind that you may be doing so for the entertainment of the building security personnel.

More on Networking

2010-06-15T12:37:00.000-05:00

Most people ultimately find their jobs through some form of networking. Take a look at Mary Crane's strategies and pointers to make networking work for you.

Going Solo

2010-06-02T14:07:00.000-05:00

While I don't completely agree with this author's skepticism at your ability to open your own practice immediately after getting licensed, I do think he has some good pointers.

New Loan Repayment Resource

2010-06-02T11:29:00.000-05:00

If you are are an attorney working in civil legal services, take a look at this new loan repayment program: Civil Legal Assistance Attorney Student Loan Repayment Program (CLAAP)

Habits To Develop

2010-05-27T17:09:00.000-05:00

This article has some good practical pointers for the day-to-day practice of a new attorney.

Avoiding the Pitfalls of the 3 Deadly P's

2010-05-17T13:47:00.000-05:00

We emphasize working hard and being your client's (or your cause's) best advocate. But here are some pitifalls to avoid in your pursuit of being an excellent attorney.

The Dining Interview

2010-03-28T10:43:00.000-05:00

Find great reminders for how to handle a lunch or dinner interview in this Texas Lawyer article.

Getting to the top of the Hill

2010-03-10T13:31:00.002-06:00

This article from Politico has an interesting take on finding a job on the Hill.

When Stress Clouds Judgment...

2010-02-04T17:16:00.001-06:00

This exchange is an excellent lesson in what NOT to do.

While You Wait

2010-01-26T13:25:00.002-06:00

The folks at Culture and Manners Institute had an interesting note in their Etiquette Tip of the Week about waiting room etiquette when interviewing:

A woman approached me after a talk in Oklahoma and said, "I am the receptionist in my office. The hiring manager has asked me to keep an eye on the job candidates in the waiting room and report back to him which ones are talking on their cell phones, checking messages or texting. Those are the candidates we do not hire.

Avoid using your cell phone or text messaging while sitting in the waiting room before an interview or even a sales call (which is in itself, an interview). Take out a notebook and study your notes (for surely you have done your research on this company -- their leadership, mission statement, sales figures, etc.) Go over the answers to tricky questions in your head. Even if you usually review notes on your phone or PDA, use something else so you don't appear to be checking messages. Leave the impression that you are focused on the business at hand and not distracted by other things in your life.

Loan Repayment Option

2010-01-14T10:53:00.002-06:00

This doesn't fall neatly into the Career Services category, but because many of you are dealing with (or will at some point deal with) the very real issue of considering loan repayments while determining your career path, I thought this information would be helpful. The Department of Education has published a comprehensive list of Questions and Answers regarding the Income-Based Repayment plan. This plan is not based on the type of work you do. However, the Public Service Loan Forgiveness Progam works in conjunction with IBR and is available to people working in Public Interest careers.

New Resource for Public Interest Job Seekers

2010-01-04T12:31:00.002-06:00

PSLawNet, a national resource for all things Public Interest, launched a new blog today. One of the first posts has some great New Year's resolutions for those of you looking for a public interest job this summer.

Networking 101

2009-12-15T14:19:00.001-06:00

As you travel over the holidays, use these pointers to effectively interact with people who might be future business contacts.

Tips for the Unemployed Graduate

2009-12-15T11:23:00.001-06:00

This article has practical strategies for tackling the daunting job search.

The Benefits of the Informational Interview

2009-10-21T09:19:00.001-05:00

This article is a very practical guide to arranging for and getting the most out of informational interviews.

Resume Honesty

2009-09-25T09:28:00.001-05:00

I haven't seen this as a problem with our students, but just in case you are tempted to fudge your resume a bit, let this article remind you to be completely honest.

Finally, Some Good News!

2009-09-04T09:51:00.002-05:00

Those wanting to work for Uncle Sam will find some comfort from this Washington Post article.

Will Tweet for Work

2009-09-03T11:13:00.001-05:00

Scroll to the bottom of this page for some great advice about using Twitter in your job search.

Staying hired: Everything young lawyers need to know, but are afraid to ask

2009-08-25T11:10:00.000-05:00

Tips from the ABA on succeeding in your first position

Lessons for Lawyers from Mary Kay Beauty Consultants

2009-08-11T14:49:00.002-05:00

Scroll down to the bottom of this page for an interesting approach to thinking about your future business (or job search!).

Baby Steps to Marketing

2009-07-31T09:52:00.002-05:00

This article encourages attorneys to just start somewhere - anywhere - when marketing themselves.

Words of Wisdom for New Associates

2009-07-23T16:15:00.001-05:00

This associate offers advice for starting out in your new job.

Ladies, Don't Be a "Dorothy" in the Workplace

2009-07-10T09:58:00.002-05:00

This article discusses the need for women to assert themselves in large firms.

25 Ways to Sabotage Your Job Search

2009-06-18T18:22:00.001-05:00

Great article from MSN about mistakes to avoid

Info for Going Solo

2009-05-29T11:10:00.003-05:00

If you are considering the possibility of starting your own practice, you might be interested in this free teleseminar being presented Tuesday, June 9.

Tech Etiquette

2009-05-19T09:31:00.001-05:00

I confess: I am addicted to my iPhone. Regardless, we would all do well to remember the pointers in this article.

Tips for Getting an Offer at the End of the Summer

2009-05-19T09:17:00.002-05:00

For those of you doing a clerkship at a firm this summer, this article has great pointers about how to make the best impression possible.

Extreme Interviewing

2009-05-07T15:32:00.001-05:00

Certainly not an approach we recommend...but very funny

Cover Letters: Mystery Solved

2009-04-30T10:27:00.002-05:00

Many of you ask to see sample cover letters, because it is so difficult to figure out where to jump in when when writing one. While we have format and content suggestions here, we have chosen not to provide actual cover letters for fear they will all start looking and sounding the same. This article has good suggestions for making your cover letter stand out. And, as always, we are happy to review any materials you intend to use in your job search.

My Ideal Job Would Be...

2009-04-24T09:35:00.001-05:00

This article is geared toward people who are already practicing and would like to change careers, but the message is the same: if a career in law is not for you, evaluate your strengths and interests and channel them elsewhere.

Fibbing Is Not Ok.

2009-04-24T09:16:00.002-05:00

Just a reminder of the importance of honesty in the application process...Integrity issues seem to be a theme in this person's academic background.

LinkedIn & Law Students

2009-04-15T14:35:00.003-05:00

I admittedly have not been a big proponent of LinkedIn - largely because I have not really figured out how to effectively use it. However, this blog (written by a law student) makes a compelling argument for being deliberate in using LinkedIn as one tool in your networking belt. As with all social networking sites, remember to use large doses of discretion and propriety.

Moxy gone awry

2009-03-11T13:38:00.002-05:00

When we tell you to think 'outside the box' when searching for a job in this economy, this is not what we have in mind.

Job Hunt Tips in Today's Market

2009-01-27T10:51:00.001-06:00

Ursula Furi-Perry, nationally published legal writer and adjunct professor at the Massachusetts School of Law, gives advice on navigating the recessionary legal job market in this article.

More Words of Caution About Your Presence on the Web

2008-12-18T10:54:00.003-06:00

As we regularly discuss, things you say or do on the web now, may come back to haunt you later.

Non-Traditional Uses of Your Law Degree

2008-12-18T10:44:00.001-06:00

Maybe you, too, can become a football coach...

1L Job Search

2008-12-16T11:55:00.001-06:00

This article provides summer job search advice to 1L's in a tougher economic climate.

Manage Stress During a Job Search

2008-12-04T12:01:00.000-06:00

Manage Stress During a Job Search
(taken from an article by Mary Jeanne Vincent)

Reducing and managing stress is one of the keys to a successful search.
Too much stress and you appear desperate. Not enough and people question
your motivation. Only you can decide how much stress is the right
amount! Here are seven steps you can take to significantly lower
stress, improve your effectiveness, and ultimately shorten your job hunt.

1. Have a realistic understanding of how long a job search takes. Many
job seekers have an unrealistic time frame for finding their next job.
It always takes longer than you think. When you don’t have a realistic
expectation for how long it can take it is easy to feel stressed out.

2. Develop a job search action plan. Map out where you want to go and
how you are going to get there. Set specific daily and weekly goals;
then develop a contingency plan for when Plan A doesn’t work. Once your
plan is in place and you are emotionally prepared – take action!

3. Reduce unnecessary expenses immediately. Minimizing financial
responsibilities and maximizing financial resources will significantly
reduce stress. This is not the time to go stress shopping. The greater
your financial resources the more flexibility you have to accept the
right job offer rather than grabbing the first one that comes along.

4. Think of your job search as a job. Consider putting specific job
search activities on your calendar and treat them like a job.

5. Spend time on the right activities. Do spend time developing high
quality marketing materials – like a résumé, cover letter, and reference
list; networking with friends and colleagues who can connect you to the
right people or opportunities; and following up with potential
employers. Don’t spend hours on the internet searching job boards for
the ‘right’ job. Instead use the internet to research organizations,
gain information about specific industries, and network with people who
can assist with your search.

6. Evaluate your progress on a weekly basis. Stay on top of your search
so that you can tell immediately if your search starts to stall and take
steps to get it back on track. Assess what is working – do more of it.
Determine what isn’t working and revise your approach. If you are still
stuck consider working with a career coach.

7. Take time to refresh your mind, body, and soul. Looking for a job,
especially when you don’t have one, is something you carry around 24/7.
Remind yourself to set regular office hours and knock off at a
reasonable hour. That includes taking time off on the weekends. Take a
walk, go to the gym, escape with a good book, or have coffee with a friend.

Networking Re-visited

2008-12-02T13:33:00.002-06:00

As was discussed at the Bear Essentials session on the topic, Networking doesn't have to be difficult. MSN posted this article listing characteristics of great networkers - just as true for attorneys as it is for sales people.

New Lawyers Becoming New Moms

2008-11-25T12:50:00.001-06:00

One of my classmates had three children in her first five years of practicing at a big firm. Some of you might also consider starting a family while starting your practice. This article offers some pointers.

The Job Search and Your Online Presence

2008-11-02T20:47:00.001-06:00

Another reminder about the impact what you say online can have on your job search

Working Overseas

2008-10-27T11:13:00.002-05:00

This article gives perspectives from several attorneys on how they found their jobs overseas and the differences they have encountered while practicing in another country.

Good News in a Not-So-Strong Economy

2008-10-14T11:43:00.001-05:00

Many Baylor lawyers go to work in mid-size firms, and according to this article this economy could work to your advantage.

Managing Legal Assistants

2008-10-08T14:56:00.002-05:00

Many of you will be in the position of supervising a legal assistant in the next few years. This can sometimes be a tricky situation as your assistant might have much more experience and be your parents' age. This article discusses how to approach managing your first legal assistant.

7 Things You Should Never Do in a Job Search

2008-10-08T14:24:00.002-05:00

One of the top stories on the MSN homepage this morning was "7 Things You should Never Do in a Job Search." As many of you are thinking about the hunt for a job right now, these pointers are very timely.

Tips for the Job Search

2008-09-30T09:05:00.001-05:00

Find resume and interview tips (including a podcast) from an ABA veteran in this article.

Law Firms & Pro Bono Work

2008-09-03T14:48:00.003-05:00

The ABA has just published a guide for students to help determine whether the firm with which they are interviewing is committed to pro bono work. You can find a .pdf of the guide here and we have hard copies on the shelves in the Career Services Suite. The back of the guide even provides sample interview questions.

Facebook, MySpace, LinkedIn...Oh My!

2008-09-02T15:10:00.002-05:00

As social networking becomes more and more popular, here are some helpful pointers to keep in mind.

(And we will be doing a Bear Essentials event in conjunction with the MBA students addressing this topic November 13.)

Cash Tips for the Solo

2008-08-15T15:34:00.001-05:00

This article discusses how to keep the cash flowing as a solo practioner.

Help for Public Interest Attorneys

2008-08-14T14:19:00.003-05:00

The House has passed several loan repayment assistance programs that will assist attorneys doing public interest work. This chart summarizes the main provisions of the program. (click on chart to enlarge)

Top Law Firms for Women

2008-08-12T15:01:00.002-05:00

Working Mother magazine has just released its annual ranking of top law firms for women. Find the rankings here and the methodology used here.

Interviewing Tips

2008-07-29T11:01:00.002-05:00

Before going into an interview, think about how you would answer questions that are likely to be asked. Here is an article addressing one commonly asked question. You can find more commonly asked questions, as well as other interviewing tips, here.

McAttorney

2008-07-14T14:54:00.002-05:00

Many students think they shouldn't include their first part-time jobs on their resumes because 'that work isn't applicable to working in a law firm.' These established attorneys found their fast-food customer service experiences were a great foundation for their future success in the legal profession.

Work Life Balance is Not a Gender-Specific Desire

2008-07-01T16:51:00.002-05:00

This article discusses the trend amongst new attorneys - men & women alike - toward being more concerned about being able to spend time with family.

How to Become a Superstar Associate

2008-06-27T12:04:00.001-05:00

See this article from the ABA along with a free podcast

How Spreading Sunshine Turns Into Making Rain

2008-06-20T13:30:00.001-05:00

Getting involved in your community and developing relationships might ultimately benefit your career, too, as discussed in this article.

The Importance of Being People-Smart

2008-06-19T09:46:00.002-05:00

A quote from this article on Relationship Intelligence:

“Most lawyers never make the shift from academic intelligence to relationship intelligence,” said Arnie Herz. “In my opinion, this accounts for the extremely high level of malaise and dissatisfaction that is plaguing the legal profession. At most law firms, academic intelligence is a given. Everyone is smart. Relationship intelligence is what helps you develop and maintain new business and sets you apart.”

Manage Your Staff

2008-06-19T09:39:00.002-05:00

Find Part 3 of Kathleen Brady's Career Management Series here. (Just a hint: Discover the essential skill of delegation.)

Billing & the New Associate

2008-06-12T14:49:00.001-05:00

Almost every attorney working in private practice will be responsible for keeping track of hours for billing purposes. This article from the Texas Lawyer discusses the best way to bill in order to keep both clients and partners happy.

Dress to Impress

2008-06-06T14:35:00.003-05:00

We stress dressing appropriately for interviews, and summer associates should consider the entire summer one long interview. Whether for the summer or as a new associate, the way you dress can make quite an impression - for better or for worse - on your future employer and clients.

Avoiding Rookie Mistakes

2008-05-20T11:45:00.002-05:00

This article addresses some mistakes made by new attorneys...but seems to be applicable regardless of how long you have been in practice.

Where will you fit?

2008-05-20T11:34:00.002-05:00

Generational differences often surface in the workplace. Knowing how your perspective might be different from those around you will help smooth your transition and will make you a more effective colleague. This article discusses the issue and how you can successfully navigate it.

Manage Your Time

2008-05-20T11:25:00.001-05:00

Find Part 2 of Kathleen Brady's Career Mangement Series here.

Is 'Going Solo' the path for you?

2008-05-19T10:26:00.001-05:00

One Texas lawyer talks about the advantages of being a solo practitioner in this Texas Lawyer article.

Manage Your Life

2008-04-30T11:25:00.004-05:00

The Law Practice Management Section of the ABA is running a 3-part Career Management Series by Kathleen Brady. The first, Manage Your Life, can be found here. Next month will be "Manage Your Time."

Message from the DOJ

2008-04-28T14:18:00.001-05:00

There are exciting new developments in the Attorney General’s Honors Program and Summer Law Intern Program! Highlights include:

• An earlier application deadline and a faster review and selection process. The applications open on July 25th and close on September 2nd, 2008 (12:00 p.m. midnight, Eastern time; 11:00 p.m., Central; 10:00 p.m., Mountain; 9:00 p.m., Pacific).

• Four United States Attorneys’ Offices (USAOs) and the Executive Office for U.S. Attorneys (EOUSA) are hiring approximately 16 entry-level attorneys through the Honors Program. Due to the level of responsibility held by AUSAs, these opportunities are only available to applicants who are admitted to a bar or, in some cases, who have taken a summer 2008 bar examination with results due in fall 2008. Participating USAOs are:

ο The Central District of California, Los Angeles, CA.
ο The Southern District of California, San Diego, CA.
ο The Western District of Michigan, Grand Rapids, MI.
ο The Middle District of Florida, Orlando, FL.
ο EOUSA, Washington, D.C., with possible assignments nationwide.

• The USAO for the District of Wyoming is participating in the Summer Law Intern Program and offering a position in either Cheyenne, WY, or in Yellowstone National Park.

• The Honors Program application has been expanded to permit applicants serving in post-J.D. legal fellowships to apply online on a conditional basis.

PLEASE VISIT http://www.usdoj.gov/oarm/ FOR DETAILS!

Women in Leadership

2008-04-28T11:19:00.002-05:00

In February, we addressed the subject of Women in Law in a Bear Essentials lunch. This article looks at the same subject, specifically leadership roles of women in the legal profession.

Client Billing

2008-04-28T11:13:00.003-05:00

For those of you who will be starting your own practice or joining a small firm, collecting payment from clients might be one of your biggest challenges. See this article from Law Practice Today, a publication by the ABA Law Practice Management Section, on how to "manage billing so that you and your clients are happy."

Why Airplanes Crash

2008-04-14T10:23:00.001-05:00

"Whenever I work with young lawyers for the first time, I tell them they only need to know the answer to one question: Why do airplanes crash? Usually, I get answers based on physics. But, no, airplanes crash because the junior co-pilot sees a blinking red light on the console, thinks if anything was wrong then surely the senior pilot would say something or act, and just as surely thinks to himself that he will not say anything that harms his career or gets him yelled at. So, the co-pilot says nothing and that's why airplanes crash. "

- Michael P. Maslanka, managing partner of Ford & Harrison in Dallas (From this article in Texas Lawyer)

Salary Issues Across the Board

2008-04-14T10:17:00.001-05:00

As many of you look forward to graduation and grapple with salary issues, you are not alone. This ABA Journal article discusses the growing disparity in attorney salaries.

Top 10 Resume and Cover Letter Mistakes to Avoid

2008-03-24T15:40:00.001-05:00

Find excellent pointers for applying in the nonprofit job market here.

Law Practice Management for Young Lawyers

2008-03-24T09:56:00.002-05:00

The Law Practice Management Section of the American Bar Association offers many resources to new lawyers. Find the resources available to you here.

Diversity in Law

2008-03-20T14:45:00.001-05:00

Diversity is an issue at all levels - college, law school, and in the workforce. This article discusses the initiatives some law firms are taking to increase the number of minority attorneys. If this is an area in which you would like to be involved, you should discuss options available with prospective employers during the interview process.

Learning from Our Mistakes

2008-03-14T11:48:00.004-05:00

Debra Bruce, an attorney and executive coach, recently wrote this article for the Law Practice Management Newsletter on mistakes attorneys often make in the business management aspects of their careers:

"How to Manage Your First Legal Assistant"

2008-03-09T15:39:00.001-05:00

"When you hire or receive your first legal assistant, you may not know how to manage your legal assistant -- let alone yourself. This article is designed to give you some helpful hints for working with your first legal assistant."

Small Talk Your Way into Your Ideal Career

2008-03-09T15:35:00.000-05:00

This article gives tips for making the most of what could be awkward situations, turning them into opportunities to develop key relationships.

Rainmaking

2008-03-09T15:29:00.000-05:00

A big part of being a civil attorney is bringing business into your firm. This article discusses key qualities to develop to become a better rainmaker.

Changes in Timing of Summer Associate Offers

2008-03-07T13:23:00.000-06:00

NALP has recently changed the guidelines that regulate when students must accept offers from firms. See this Texas Lawyer article about the changes.

HIV/AIDS LAW AND PRACTICE: FROM LOCAL CLIENT TO GLOBAL WORKFORCE

2008-03-03T09:39:00.002-06:00

I posted about this in December, but just in case you missed it, this conference is in Dallas and is only $25 for law students:

HIV/AIDS LAW AND PRACTICE
FROM LOCAL CLIENT TO GLOBAL WORKFORCE

April 9 and 10, 2008
Hilton Anatole Hotel
Dallas, Texas
More Information

Register Now

The American Bar Association’s Continuing Legal Education (CLE) conference on HIV/AIDS Law and Practice: From Local Client to Global Workforce, will convene a dynamic group of lawyers, policy advocates, and public health experts from across the country to explore cutting-edge legal issues affecting people living with HIV/AIDS and the people around them.

The conference will include a business track covering key linkages among employers, employees and HIV, the critical challenges HIV/AIDS poses to small businesses and multi-national corporations alike, and the private sector’s vital role in combating HIV/AIDS at home and abroad. Ambassador Mark R. Dybul, U.S. Global AIDS Coordinator, will give the keynote address at the conference dinner on April 9.

Among other vital topics, conference workshops will examine:

What's New? Federal HIV/AIDS Initiatives and Proposed Legislation
Access to HIV Medications through Government Programs
Criminal Law and HIV: Current Trends and Enforcement
Immigration and HIV
State Responses to the CDC’s Routine HIV Testing Guidelines: An Update for Practitioners
HIV and Human Rights at Home and Abroad
HIV in the Workplace: Global Demographics in 2008 and Beyond
Labor/Management Collaborations: A Brave New World
Working Again: Issues Faced by HIV-positive Employees Returning to Work
Fighting HIV/AIDS: What Is a Corporation's Responsibility?

For more information and to register for the conference, visit the conference page on the Committee's Web site. Sponsorship opportunities available - see website for more details. Please direct questions or comments to the ABA AIDS Coordination Project via e-mail or telephone (202/662-1025).

Hanging Out Your Shingle in a Hot Practice Area

2008-02-29T15:48:00.003-06:00

This article focuses on the increasing need for elder law attorneys but is particularly interesting in its commentary on successfully starting your own practice.

Financial Planning for Young Lawyers

2008-02-26T14:51:00.001-06:00

For those of you getting ready to tackle post-school life, consider this advice regarding financial decisions.