Your Post-Graduation Job Search

By: Kandice Thorn

It's hard to believe it's already mid-May and graduation is upon us! For the past year, your job search has likely taken a back seat to your studies, but once you have graduated (and taken the bar exam, if that's your plan), the job search will move to the front and center. It's no secret that the job market is tough these days.  Here are some tips to help you have a successful post-graduation job search:

• Treat your job search as if it were your job. Give it the time and dedication you would to a job. Set goals and deadlines for yourself and stick with them, but make sure your goals are helpful and within your control. For example, "I will have a job by September 30" is not a very helpful objective. Instead, try something clear and attainable like "I will set up three informational interviews by June15."  
• Do not give up on networking. Try to attend a few events a week where you will come into contact with practicing attorneys. Keep in touch with your current contacts. Set up informational interviews with new contacts. Remember that networking is your number one source of job opportunities. 
• Find opportunities to build your resume during your down time. Seek out volunteer opportunities. Attend conferences and CLEs. (Bonus: these also count as networking opportunities!)
• Don't get discouraged. Rejection is a given in this market—do not to take it personally. Keep a positive attitude and keep trying!          

Remember that GPDP services are here for you long after you graduate. Don't forget to sign up for an alumni account to access all the features of the GPDP alumni website.  

>>click here to sign up for a GPDP alumni account

Congratulations to all of you!