5 Ways to Make Your Legal Job Search Easier in 2024

By Jamy J. Sullivan, J.D., Robert Half 

Whether you’re fresh out of school or an experienced legal professional, kicking off a job search can be daunting. Here are some tips to simplify the process and boost your chances of landing that position you have your eye on in 2024.

1. Polish your resume — yes, it’s still a vital tool

Before applying for jobs, carefully review your resume for any red flags that may cause employers to reject you outright. Research by Robert Half shows that frequent job hopping, vague descriptions of past positions and insufficient skills for the job advertised are top factors that give employers pause.

It’s not a good idea to create one template to use for all your job submissions. Make sure to customize your resume for each role you apply for, ensuring it aligns with the specific requirements and culture of the organization. This shows your attention to detail and, more important, your genuine interest in the position. Include concrete achievements, clearly detail the responsibilities you've handled and mention any legal software you're skilled in using. Don’t leave out professional development courses or certifications that further validate your expertise and commitment to the field. Lastly, double-check your document for any grammatical mistakes or unclear language — these can be deal-breakers for legal employers.

2. Make your LinkedIn profile stand out

Recruiters and prospective employers will likely review your LinkedIn profile, so make sure it appeals directly to them. Use relevant legal keywords such as “litigation,” “intellectual property” and “contract negotiation” or what best applies to you to boost your visibility in searches. Demonstrate your engagement within the legal sector by sharing and commenting on articles and legal decisions posted by your peers and industry leaders. And just like in reviewing your resume, carefully proofread to catch any grammatical mistakes.

3. Network online and in person

To restate an old adage, it’s what you know and who you know. Nearly 9 in 10 managers (87%) surveyed by Robert Half are more likely to hire a candidate with a referral from a current employee — a clear incentive to expand your professional network. Connect or re-connect with past coworkers, supervisors, clients and classmates who can potentially refer you. Attend legal industry meetups and conferences whenever possible. Here, having a concise, 30-second elevator pitch ready — a verbal snapshot of your LinkedIn profile — is beneficial as a self-introduction that conveys your professional identity and leaves a lasting impression on new acquaintances.

4. Work with a specialized recruiter

Build relationships with legal staffing specialists focused on your practice area or jurisdiction. They work with law firms and legal departments seeking new talent and can advocate for you in the hiring process. Be sure to communicate your specific job search criteria so they understand your preferences and can match you with suitable openings. They can also provide insider advice to help you negotiate the best possible compensation package.

5. Explore opportunities with previous employers

If you want to work again for a former employer, consider reaching out to your past manager or a company recruiter to inquire if there are open positions and if they would consider bringing you back. This could be an attractive option for your law firm or legal department because you will likely need less training and can handle higher workloads more quickly.

Finally, remember to be kind to yourself and understand that success comes in many forms. You might not land the job you’re interested in on the first try, but a strong interview can put you on a firm's radar for future roles.