As a legal recruiter, I regularly encounter new law graduates who are seeking a position within a firm. Many are graduates of reputable schools, received excellent grades, and have relevant clerkship experience. On paper, they seem like respectable candidates. However, they are often shocked when I tell them that I don't have any suitable roles available. Why is this the case?

Read on to learn why it can be difficult for legal recruiters to work with new graduates.

Internal Recruitment Programs

Working with a new law grad is generally a difficult assignment for recruitment consultants. The truth is that law firms often spend a lot of money and time on their own internal recruitment programs. The only reason legal firms seek my services is for help filling experienced roles. In fact, many of these firms will not even look at the new graduate CVs that I send unless they are spectacular. Otherwise, at least one year of post graduate experience is generally required.

Competitive Employment Market

Unfortunately, even with postgrad experience, it can be difficult for legal recruiters to place new lawyers. In this industry, where there is a surplus of skilled lawyers to choose from, firms are granted the ability to be picky. They normally look for candidates with a very specific background and experience to serve the requirements of their clients. This also ensures they receive candidates who do not require extensive training.

Tips for New Law Graduates

If the either of the above sections describe your situation, do not panic! There is still opportunity to find your dream job. However, this may require some work of your own.

Gain Relevant Experience

The longer it's been since you've graduated, the more likely that hiring legal firms will bypass your academic training and concentrate on your experience. If you are unsuccessful in landing a job within a firm, consider taking on more clerkships. Naturally, the training you receive in the legal field itself is important. In fact, many firms liken your training to job experience. For example, a clerkship with a judge is thought highly by firms as work. Try volunteering at boutique or specialist firms in your targeted practice area. This demonstrates your dedication, and you never know what could come of it!

Consider Relocating

Take this into consideration: some parts of Australia may be in greater need of lawyers than others. Therefore, you must be adaptable and open to new opportunities elsewhere. Committing yourself to a move may just be the change needed to kickstart your law career.

Specialise

Your practice area should be obvious to legal hiring managers. That's why you need to show a commitment to a specific specialty and practice area. You do not want to switch paths too often. Find yourself a niche and make the most of it. Then seek out those firms that want someone with your precise interests and qualifications.

While I would love to find a legal role for everyone, I have to work with candidates that are best suited for the positions my clients are seeking to fill. Unfortunately, this leaves new graduates at a priority disadvantage. However, don't give up hope! Contact me for more tips on starting your law career.