Question
My husband recently relocated us to South Carolina from Florida. We had just had a new baby, and I began work with a large law firm as a legal secretary/floater, which required me to have oncall hours one weekend per month, and one day per week. Since starting the job 15 months ago it has gone to 2-3 nights a week with some nights ending at midnight or later. My husband is a 3rd shift officer and we have two small children so I really can't work past 9 pm any longer.
I have also been subjected to yelling and cursing from other secretaries and it has escalated to a point where this job just doesn’t work for me.
I emailed my boss (who was portraying herself as a good friend, even calling me outside of work and always acting concerned about my family life and well being) and told her something along the lines of, "This really doesn’t seem to be working so well. The oncall hours are too much and I can't handle being cursed and yelled at. I think I need to start looking for another job." She replied “I want you to be happy and I will support you in any way I can.” I also told her I was not giving notice of resignation, and that I'd like to stay at the job until I found another one.
Weeks went by and I got called into the HR manager’s office. I was told “things just aren’t working out and we need to agree your last day with the firm will be the 30th” (30 days from the day of the meeting). I was shocked. I had been told what a great team player I was, how helpful, and professional, etc. I asked my boss, “Am I fired or what?” She replied, "No, I don’t think we look at it that way; it just isn’t a good fit anymore." A week later I inquired as to whether I will be paid for my remaining vacation time, as the manual states. I was told, "No." So, I started using up my sick time, and I put in a request for vacation time, which didn't get approved.
I went about my interviews, but I didn't get any calls after I submitted my references. I went to a staffing agency, which requested a letter of recommendation. I called my boss to ask for one, and she said, "I can’t give you one in a situation like this. All inquires have to go through the HR manager.” So, I emailed the HR manager, requesting a letter of reference.
Then the emails started coming, “Since we mutually agreed you would be leaving…”. I wrote back, “I never mutually agreed to anything. I told you that I was going to start looking for another job because of the oncall hours and constantly being yelled at by co-workers. But I never resigned or said I was giving notice, and I didn’t set the date of the 30th -- you did.” I don't want them to screw me out of unemployment, saying I “mutually agreed” to leave, especially when the job market is the worst in 22 years and I have 2 small children to care for.
Can you help me make some sense of all this? I am so worried.
Answer
by Garla Smith, Smart Moms®, LLC, smart-moms.net and smart-moms-online.com
Dear Mom with Bad Reference,
This is indeed a tough time for you. There are a couple of issues that I can address that may be motivating.
The first and foremost issue at hand is how do you get a job when you may not have a strong reference at your previous employer? I think the first course of action would be to find out exactly what the employer is saying about you. By law, the employer can legally only verify job title and dates of service. They have the option to decline to answer the questions concerning eligibility for re-employment, verification of duties and others. Because this is a law firm, I suspect they are providing references by the book. What may be a challenge for you is that they have a tone in their voice or are unwilling to give enough information to make the employer feel comfortable about hiring you.
As you already know, it is difficult for you to get a truthful answer about what is being said. However, you can hire someone to verify your references. There are professional agencies such as Allison and Taylor that can check your references. For instance, if you learn that the employer only answers questions about job title and dates of service in a very brief manner, you can alert your prospective employer that this is their policy so it will not be construed as a bad reference. If you learn that the employer has a particular tone (signifying displeasure) while answering the questions, this information may be admissible in court. Is there one peer (at the law firm) that would serve as a personal reference? You could provide a cell number or home phone and instruct the prospective employer that she can discuss your relationship but it is best to reach him/her after work hours. Make sure to speak with this reference about how you would like them to address your departure as well as those relevant skills. Did you do any volunteer work during this period or have another part-time job? Perhaps this avenue can provide a positive and talkative reference who can speak about your relevant skills.
Always handle things in a professional manner no matter what. When you are speaking to a prospective employer do not bad mouth the prior employer. It is always received as a bad sign, always. Don’t blame, don’t bad mouth, don’t appear to be the victim. You should tell them the truth of why you left but in a non-blaming fashion. It may be presented something like, ”I resigned from that position because they needed someone to support them after-hours and I was unable to do that with a new born baby...” Keep it brief, professional and never bad mouth the employer.
For the future, it is important to put things in writing. For instance, when you begin to feel you were being mislead about the hours and what was communicated, putting it in writing (via email) to your supervisor lets them know you are serious about that concern. The correspondence also helps to legally protect you. If you decide to correspond via email simply turn on the read-receipt option (via Outlook). Make sure you print out the email and file for your records. Any kind of abuse, especially verbal, should be documented to someone above you to alert them about what is going on. If all else fails, you have a paper trail if you need to file a law suit or proof to ensure you secure unemployment.
You may still have some recourse for receiving vacation pay. Some states require that employers pay remaining vacation time. Check these sites for rules and regulations about SC Labor and Employment Laws Link 1 and Link 2. Save your existing pay stubs and policy manual for documentation. Research to find a lawyer or someone familiar with employment laws to provide their professional opinion as to whether you have a case.
You can obtain a job after experiencing a challenging time with an employer. Commitment to finding a new job, resolve to not settle for unemployment, research to determine your rights and best practices will all help you eventually land another job. Best of luck!
Showing posts with label job search - legal field. Show all posts
Showing posts with label job search - legal field. Show all posts
Friday, June 27, 2008
Monday, July 02, 2007
Immigration Status on Your Resume
Question
I am having issues with gaps of employment because of my immigration status. Basically I graduated from law school in 2002. I worked as a PD in Orlando for almost a year until my work visa ran out. Since then I have been volunteering off and on but I don't feel the work was significant enough to put on my resume (at least some of it isn't significant).
The problem I am having is that people are looking at me as if I am damaged goods and I suppose the fact that I live in D.C. isn't helping my cause either. I read the comment about the woman recovering from breast cancer but I kind of feel like my story would not draw as much sympathy or understanding, sort of like being a housewife. People seem unsympathetic. It is as if employers or agencies feel I somehow had control over my immigration situation and placed myself in the position I am in.
I am now eligible to work but haven't been able to find a job, even document review work, which frankly any layperson could do. I truly believe that the gap in employment is the reason. I send out my resume and do not get many responses except from temp agencies who ask the same question: "So what have you been doing since 2003?"
I wonder if you could offer me some advice on how to put together a resume that will account for the lapse in time.
Answer
by Beth Brown, Professional Resume Writer
Having a large gap in your professional work history is frustrating, at best. Employers tend to be wary of any gaps, and when a gap has to do with immigration status, that wariness may put your resume in the "circular file" immediately. So, what to do? Here are a few suggestions:
1. Put your current work status/eligibility to work in the U.S. at the top of your resume, in the Summary of Qualifications section. Perhaps your last bullet point or sentence would say “Eligible to work in the U.S.” or whatever your status is, such as “United States Resident” or “HB-1 Visa.”
2. In terms of your work since 2002, you need to account for your time. If you did volunteer work, you should list it. You could group the organizations together, as in:
Then include one or two points describing what you did, achievements you are proud of or were recognized for.
3. Widen the scope of your thinking about what you’ve been doing that could be considered relevant to your next career step. For example, if you were doing research about your immigration status and/or doing work to move that process along, you could also list it, especially if you are interested in legal work having to do with immigration law! One idea:
If there have been other steps to the process, such as consulting with attorneys or immigration officials, you could mention those steps in one or two additional points. Don’t feel you have to say a lot, but make sure that any prospective employer knows that you have been working hard to change your eligibility, and that you’ve been successful.
Good luck!
Beth Brown has been a resume writer on Susan Ireland’s team for over 10 years, and has worked with more than 1000 clients from all over the world and all walks of life.
Find Diversity employment at DiversityJobs.com.
I am having issues with gaps of employment because of my immigration status. Basically I graduated from law school in 2002. I worked as a PD in Orlando for almost a year until my work visa ran out. Since then I have been volunteering off and on but I don't feel the work was significant enough to put on my resume (at least some of it isn't significant).
The problem I am having is that people are looking at me as if I am damaged goods and I suppose the fact that I live in D.C. isn't helping my cause either. I read the comment about the woman recovering from breast cancer but I kind of feel like my story would not draw as much sympathy or understanding, sort of like being a housewife. People seem unsympathetic. It is as if employers or agencies feel I somehow had control over my immigration situation and placed myself in the position I am in.
I am now eligible to work but haven't been able to find a job, even document review work, which frankly any layperson could do. I truly believe that the gap in employment is the reason. I send out my resume and do not get many responses except from temp agencies who ask the same question: "So what have you been doing since 2003?"
I wonder if you could offer me some advice on how to put together a resume that will account for the lapse in time.
Answer
by Beth Brown, Professional Resume Writer
Having a large gap in your professional work history is frustrating, at best. Employers tend to be wary of any gaps, and when a gap has to do with immigration status, that wariness may put your resume in the "circular file" immediately. So, what to do? Here are a few suggestions:
1. Put your current work status/eligibility to work in the U.S. at the top of your resume, in the Summary of Qualifications section. Perhaps your last bullet point or sentence would say “Eligible to work in the U.S.” or whatever your status is, such as “United States Resident” or “HB-1 Visa.”
2. In terms of your work since 2002, you need to account for your time. If you did volunteer work, you should list it. You could group the organizations together, as in:
2002-04 Volunteer Legal Advisor (your title)
Organization X and Organization Y (names, city and state)
Then include one or two points describing what you did, achievements you are proud of or were recognized for.
3. Widen the scope of your thinking about what you’ve been doing that could be considered relevant to your next career step. For example, if you were doing research about your immigration status and/or doing work to move that process along, you could also list it, especially if you are interested in legal work having to do with immigration law! One idea:
2004-present
Independent research in U.S. immigration law, and completion of the immigration process, resulting in permanent work eligibility.
If there have been other steps to the process, such as consulting with attorneys or immigration officials, you could mention those steps in one or two additional points. Don’t feel you have to say a lot, but make sure that any prospective employer knows that you have been working hard to change your eligibility, and that you’ve been successful.
Good luck!
Beth Brown has been a resume writer on Susan Ireland’s team for over 10 years, and has worked with more than 1000 clients from all over the world and all walks of life.
Find Diversity employment at DiversityJobs.com.
Wednesday, June 13, 2007
Too Old to Change Careers?
Questions
I am considering enrollment in a paralegal program close to my home. My past experience has been in the tech field and I am looking for a change. My question is: Am I too old to pursue a career as a paralegal where I could use my fluency in Spanish and some real estate experience? Do you think it is feasible or should I consider other alternatives?
I truly appreciate you candor on the subject and thank you in advance for your "needed" kind advice.
Answer
by Steve Roesler, CEO, Roesler Group
It seems as if you have both the energy and desire to continue (or change) your career. Both of those trump chronological age every time. So let’s look at the situation:
Why are you moving from the tech field to paralegal? And why paralegal?
It’s fine to do so. Just be sure that you have thought through the implications of a different kind of working atmosphere and whether it suits your personality and working style. Penelope Trunk’s blog, Brazen Careerist, will give you some interesting insights regarding career changes.
Employers in all industries value bi-lingual skills. Your background in real estate would give you an edge with a firm that specializes in Real Estate law, a field that has and is looking to increase its Spanish-speaking clientele.
How will you find the best match? I would suggest that you ask about job placement at the paralegal school you are considering. Many, if not most certification schools, help with the placement process. It would also be a good idea to explore a couple of other institutions to get a more complete sense of who might have a track record that would be most helpful in your ultimate job search. And, there are certificate programs available online at such places as Kaplan University and AIPS (American Institute for Paralegal Studies).
I wish you all the best with your decision!
Steve Roesler is President/CEO of Roesler Group, a consulting firm with a 30-year history of building individual and organizational growth and performance.
I am considering enrollment in a paralegal program close to my home. My past experience has been in the tech field and I am looking for a change. My question is: Am I too old to pursue a career as a paralegal where I could use my fluency in Spanish and some real estate experience? Do you think it is feasible or should I consider other alternatives?
I truly appreciate you candor on the subject and thank you in advance for your "needed" kind advice.
Answer
by Steve Roesler, CEO, Roesler Group
It seems as if you have both the energy and desire to continue (or change) your career. Both of those trump chronological age every time. So let’s look at the situation:
Why are you moving from the tech field to paralegal? And why paralegal?
It’s fine to do so. Just be sure that you have thought through the implications of a different kind of working atmosphere and whether it suits your personality and working style. Penelope Trunk’s blog, Brazen Careerist, will give you some interesting insights regarding career changes.
Employers in all industries value bi-lingual skills. Your background in real estate would give you an edge with a firm that specializes in Real Estate law, a field that has and is looking to increase its Spanish-speaking clientele.
How will you find the best match? I would suggest that you ask about job placement at the paralegal school you are considering. Many, if not most certification schools, help with the placement process. It would also be a good idea to explore a couple of other institutions to get a more complete sense of who might have a track record that would be most helpful in your ultimate job search. And, there are certificate programs available online at such places as Kaplan University and AIPS (American Institute for Paralegal Studies).
I wish you all the best with your decision!
Steve Roesler is President/CEO of Roesler Group, a consulting firm with a 30-year history of building individual and organizational growth and performance.
Monday, May 14, 2007
Terminated and Moving On
Question
I was terminated from my job, nearly a year ago, because I decided to take a stand. There were some very questionable things going on within management. Since it affected the employees and the company in a very negative way, I started a petition within my department regarding the issues and more than half of the employees signed it. I submitted a letter, along with the petition to the compliance department, which got remarkable attention - resulting in a visit from the President of the company that included a one-on-one interview with everyone in the department. In the end, half of management was terminated along with myself.
I imagine they were uncomfortable with me staying there considering what I knew. The much needed change that was due to that particular department was granted because of my actions, so I am very happy that the employees have a better place to work, some of them had no positive outlet, including no high school diplomas. They had no way out.
I recently began seeking employment as a legal assistant and have gotten several call backs for interviews. How do I explain my termination without scrutinizing the company?
--Zandria
Answer
by Ronnie Ann, Work Coach
Hi Zandria!
First let me congratulate you on taking action that sounds like it wound up helping many employees. This is a tough thing to do and most people would have been afraid to take a stand like this, so I applaud you for wanting to make a difference. Sadly, it resulted in your departure – most companies just don’t feel comfortable keeping people who have taken such action, even if in the end the company benefits. I’m sorry about that for your sake, but I hope your next job will make up for all of it.
That said…there is no reason to mention any of the specific circumstances in your interviews. Nowadays, because of possible legal implications, most companies will not reveal details like this when contacted for references. Also, I would assume the company would rather not have its dirty laundry discussed in public. So I would guess they are hoping you don’t mention it either. (In the slim event they do talk about it as part of a reference, then you might want to have a talk with your former employer to explain that you are not discussing the details and would appreciate the same courtesy.)
Your best bet is to emphasize the good things and simply explain that there was a reorganization in which a layer of management was let go (or some such explanation). Be casual about the whole thing and keep your answer to this question short and sweet. The less mentioned about it the better. Main thing is to show only good will toward your former employer. Interviewers know that one day you might be leaving them and they like to hire people who won’t tell dirt!
Although your termination was part of a reorganization, CVTips.com has some thoughts that apply to any termination that wasn’t of one’s own choice. In their post, Answering the Interview Question: Why Were You Fired?, they emphasize being open in your answers:
Now that doesn’t mean you need to tell them the whole story. Just be open and direct about the fact that a reorganization happened and you were let go as part of the process. It’s such a common story nowadays, unless you make it into a big deal, a simple answer and a comfortable smile will suffice. The main thing is to emphasize you are looking forward to starting a new job in a company like this one. (It doesn’t hurt to have a few reasons why you are especially excited about this particular company.)
The bigger question for me is “What have you been doing in the last year since you were let go?” There is a one-year gap that, when coupled with a termination, could raise an eyebrow or two. Make sure you have a good answer that a new employer will be comfortable with. If you’ve done any volunteer work in that time or taken time to help a family member, be prepared to talk a little about that in a way that emphasizes your good qualities. (It never hurts to rehearse in front of a mirror or with a friend just to get comfortable with all the details of what you want to say. Just make sure you can still sound natural, as an employer is more interested in seeing the real you than hearing a “perfect” canned answer!)
The fact that you already have some interviews is a very good sign. You might even consider looking for a job within a union or labor law firm since you seem to have the spirit.
Just know that these things happen to most of us. Simply focus on what you have to tell that makes you a great hire and a good fit for the company. Leave the rest in the past where it belongs!
Good luck, Zandria. I wish you all the best in your new job.
Susan Ireland’s Two Cents
Job Lounger, do you have a question? Email (joblounge@aol.com) it to me and I’ll post your question and an expert’s answer here in The Job Lounge.
I was terminated from my job, nearly a year ago, because I decided to take a stand. There were some very questionable things going on within management. Since it affected the employees and the company in a very negative way, I started a petition within my department regarding the issues and more than half of the employees signed it. I submitted a letter, along with the petition to the compliance department, which got remarkable attention - resulting in a visit from the President of the company that included a one-on-one interview with everyone in the department. In the end, half of management was terminated along with myself.
I imagine they were uncomfortable with me staying there considering what I knew. The much needed change that was due to that particular department was granted because of my actions, so I am very happy that the employees have a better place to work, some of them had no positive outlet, including no high school diplomas. They had no way out.
I recently began seeking employment as a legal assistant and have gotten several call backs for interviews. How do I explain my termination without scrutinizing the company?
--Zandria
Answer
by Ronnie Ann, Work Coach
Hi Zandria!
First let me congratulate you on taking action that sounds like it wound up helping many employees. This is a tough thing to do and most people would have been afraid to take a stand like this, so I applaud you for wanting to make a difference. Sadly, it resulted in your departure – most companies just don’t feel comfortable keeping people who have taken such action, even if in the end the company benefits. I’m sorry about that for your sake, but I hope your next job will make up for all of it.
That said…there is no reason to mention any of the specific circumstances in your interviews. Nowadays, because of possible legal implications, most companies will not reveal details like this when contacted for references. Also, I would assume the company would rather not have its dirty laundry discussed in public. So I would guess they are hoping you don’t mention it either. (In the slim event they do talk about it as part of a reference, then you might want to have a talk with your former employer to explain that you are not discussing the details and would appreciate the same courtesy.)
Your best bet is to emphasize the good things and simply explain that there was a reorganization in which a layer of management was let go (or some such explanation). Be casual about the whole thing and keep your answer to this question short and sweet. The less mentioned about it the better. Main thing is to show only good will toward your former employer. Interviewers know that one day you might be leaving them and they like to hire people who won’t tell dirt!
Although your termination was part of a reorganization, CVTips.com has some thoughts that apply to any termination that wasn’t of one’s own choice. In their post, Answering the Interview Question: Why Were You Fired?, they emphasize being open in your answers:
“While trying to give a pleasant-to-hear answer do not hide the real reasons, i.e. if the company was going through financial problems, or if they were downsizing and found your position expendable, do not feel ashamed to say so. Emphasize how much you learnt from the past experience in the job and how much you look forward to move on. This will establish you as a mature person.”
Now that doesn’t mean you need to tell them the whole story. Just be open and direct about the fact that a reorganization happened and you were let go as part of the process. It’s such a common story nowadays, unless you make it into a big deal, a simple answer and a comfortable smile will suffice. The main thing is to emphasize you are looking forward to starting a new job in a company like this one. (It doesn’t hurt to have a few reasons why you are especially excited about this particular company.)
The bigger question for me is “What have you been doing in the last year since you were let go?” There is a one-year gap that, when coupled with a termination, could raise an eyebrow or two. Make sure you have a good answer that a new employer will be comfortable with. If you’ve done any volunteer work in that time or taken time to help a family member, be prepared to talk a little about that in a way that emphasizes your good qualities. (It never hurts to rehearse in front of a mirror or with a friend just to get comfortable with all the details of what you want to say. Just make sure you can still sound natural, as an employer is more interested in seeing the real you than hearing a “perfect” canned answer!)
The fact that you already have some interviews is a very good sign. You might even consider looking for a job within a union or labor law firm since you seem to have the spirit.
Just know that these things happen to most of us. Simply focus on what you have to tell that makes you a great hire and a good fit for the company. Leave the rest in the past where it belongs!
Good luck, Zandria. I wish you all the best in your new job.
Susan Ireland’s Two Cents
Job Lounger, do you have a question? Email (joblounge@aol.com) it to me and I’ll post your question and an expert’s answer here in The Job Lounge.
Wednesday, May 09, 2007
Finding an Entry-Level Job in Law Firm
Question
After extensive soul searching and reviewing my skills, I am pursuing my BS degree in Paralegal Studies. I am trying to think ahead and start my legal career before I graduate in 2008. Most of the positions I have held have been in customer service.
Most of the job advertisements require five years experience in the legal field that I do not have. I wanted to know how I can find an entry-level position that can use my talents and skills from my previous jobs and the knowledge I have obtained from college. I have tried temporary agencies that have jobs in the legal area but have not been successful.
I am getting discouraged. I do not want to graduate and still be in the customer service field.
-- Sharda
Answer
by Ronnie Ann, Work Coach
Hi Sharda!
I can imagine how frustrating that must be for you. I respect that you’re trying to get a jump-start on your legal career.
While you’re right to think that finding an entry-level job in the legal field might be a great way to begin your new career, it’s important not to let your ambitious plan frustrate you. I’d like to tell you that the doors will just open – and sometimes things like that happen – but this usually takes time. Determination and patience will be your greatest allies in this or any career change.
In my own life, I’ve made a few career changes and each time it took a while. And although I got many rejections…I eventually got there. It only takes one “yes.” I once decided to become a theatrical agent and sent a letter to every agency in New York City. They all turned me down. But about 6 months later I got a phone call from a fairly well-known agency asking if I would do one day of reception work for them because they were in a bind. Even though I had an MBA and quite a few years of corporate experience, I said “sure!” That one day turned into a job as Executive Assistant to the president, a high-powered super agent.
From what I understand, you are right that most places require 2-5 years legal experience when looking for a paralegal. And you haven’t even graduated your program yet, so you’re competing with all the graduate paralegals (many without adequate experience) who are also looking. But that doesn’t mean it’s impossible to find a legal job of some sort. It just means you’ll have to be creative.
First I hope you are working with your school’s placement office and telling them that you will take any job in a law firm or legal area, even if it’s a legal receptionist or secretary. Since you don’t have your degree yet, this will at least allow you to gain some related experience and make contacts in the company. Also remember to ask your professors for help. They probably have contacts. Stress to them that you’ll give it your best and are open to any legitimate opportunity to get your foot in the legal door.
But before presenting yourself to any company, it is essential that you come to them with top-level legal research skills (Westlaw/Lexis-Nexis) as well as excellent office software skills such as Microsoft Word, Excel, and PowerPoint. So if any of these are weak, your first goal should be to get yourself to a point of being a true star. You will then be able to highlight this (along with those good customer service/people skills) in your cover letters and interviews, and thus differentiate yourself from the teeming masses.
You mentioned that you’ve worked with legal temp agencies and had no luck. Don’t forget to try a regular temp agency and tell them you’re looking for any job in a legal area – even if it’s a bank compliance department or government agency. In fact, government agencies will sometimes be a bit more flexible than corporations when it comes to requiring experience. Also, once your skills are where they need to be, try the legal temp agencies again, making sure they know about your new top-notch skills and that you are very flexible about the level of job.
You should also be ready to approach various size law firms on your own and, again, let them know you will accept even a receptionist job if that’s your way in. They need to see that you are determined and reliable. The rest you can make happen once inside if you play it smart by doing an outstanding job – no matter what it is - and making connections. But as I said, first get those skills to shine!
In addition, schools often provide essential career assistance by offering internships that give you exactly what you’re looking for – a way to get to your first legal job. And that might not be available to you until your last semester.
According to Michael Horowitz in his post called Paralegal Experience; Keeping Your Day Job??? the internship might be your real answer:
That might be just what you need, Sharda. And, by the time you get to that point, you’ll actually have some of the new skills that will help you get ahead. Your idea to start now might be worth pursuing as a possibility, but if it doesn’t work out, congratulate yourself on the effort and focus on your classes. There are still ways to get to your goal – when the time is right.
So think about your options and see what makes sense for you. But most importantly – don’t let a tough process undermine your belief in the results or in yourself. You’ll get there. Just make sure you’re ready to offer them the best you can when you do!
Good luck in your new career, Sharda! I’m rooting for you.
Susan Ireland’s Two Cents
Job Lounger, do you have a question? Email (joblounge@aol.com) it to me and I’ll post your question and an expert’s answer here in The Job Lounge.
After extensive soul searching and reviewing my skills, I am pursuing my BS degree in Paralegal Studies. I am trying to think ahead and start my legal career before I graduate in 2008. Most of the positions I have held have been in customer service.
Most of the job advertisements require five years experience in the legal field that I do not have. I wanted to know how I can find an entry-level position that can use my talents and skills from my previous jobs and the knowledge I have obtained from college. I have tried temporary agencies that have jobs in the legal area but have not been successful.
I am getting discouraged. I do not want to graduate and still be in the customer service field.
-- Sharda
Answer
by Ronnie Ann, Work Coach
Hi Sharda!
I can imagine how frustrating that must be for you. I respect that you’re trying to get a jump-start on your legal career.
While you’re right to think that finding an entry-level job in the legal field might be a great way to begin your new career, it’s important not to let your ambitious plan frustrate you. I’d like to tell you that the doors will just open – and sometimes things like that happen – but this usually takes time. Determination and patience will be your greatest allies in this or any career change.
In my own life, I’ve made a few career changes and each time it took a while. And although I got many rejections…I eventually got there. It only takes one “yes.” I once decided to become a theatrical agent and sent a letter to every agency in New York City. They all turned me down. But about 6 months later I got a phone call from a fairly well-known agency asking if I would do one day of reception work for them because they were in a bind. Even though I had an MBA and quite a few years of corporate experience, I said “sure!” That one day turned into a job as Executive Assistant to the president, a high-powered super agent.
From what I understand, you are right that most places require 2-5 years legal experience when looking for a paralegal. And you haven’t even graduated your program yet, so you’re competing with all the graduate paralegals (many without adequate experience) who are also looking. But that doesn’t mean it’s impossible to find a legal job of some sort. It just means you’ll have to be creative.
First I hope you are working with your school’s placement office and telling them that you will take any job in a law firm or legal area, even if it’s a legal receptionist or secretary. Since you don’t have your degree yet, this will at least allow you to gain some related experience and make contacts in the company. Also remember to ask your professors for help. They probably have contacts. Stress to them that you’ll give it your best and are open to any legitimate opportunity to get your foot in the legal door.
But before presenting yourself to any company, it is essential that you come to them with top-level legal research skills (Westlaw/Lexis-Nexis) as well as excellent office software skills such as Microsoft Word, Excel, and PowerPoint. So if any of these are weak, your first goal should be to get yourself to a point of being a true star. You will then be able to highlight this (along with those good customer service/people skills) in your cover letters and interviews, and thus differentiate yourself from the teeming masses.
You mentioned that you’ve worked with legal temp agencies and had no luck. Don’t forget to try a regular temp agency and tell them you’re looking for any job in a legal area – even if it’s a bank compliance department or government agency. In fact, government agencies will sometimes be a bit more flexible than corporations when it comes to requiring experience. Also, once your skills are where they need to be, try the legal temp agencies again, making sure they know about your new top-notch skills and that you are very flexible about the level of job.
You should also be ready to approach various size law firms on your own and, again, let them know you will accept even a receptionist job if that’s your way in. They need to see that you are determined and reliable. The rest you can make happen once inside if you play it smart by doing an outstanding job – no matter what it is - and making connections. But as I said, first get those skills to shine!
In addition, schools often provide essential career assistance by offering internships that give you exactly what you’re looking for – a way to get to your first legal job. And that might not be available to you until your last semester.
According to Michael Horowitz in his post called Paralegal Experience; Keeping Your Day Job??? the internship might be your real answer:
I received my paralegal degree almost 20 years ago (AAS - Legal
Assistant) and, even though I already held a undergrad degree (BS -
Criminal Justice), I had to perform an internship and put in about 120
hours during the last term of my program. Certificate programs at my,
and other local accredited schools, had (and still have) similar
requirements. I actually got a job out of my internship, as did most
of my classmates, at least those who intended to work in the field.
That might be just what you need, Sharda. And, by the time you get to that point, you’ll actually have some of the new skills that will help you get ahead. Your idea to start now might be worth pursuing as a possibility, but if it doesn’t work out, congratulate yourself on the effort and focus on your classes. There are still ways to get to your goal – when the time is right.
So think about your options and see what makes sense for you. But most importantly – don’t let a tough process undermine your belief in the results or in yourself. You’ll get there. Just make sure you’re ready to offer them the best you can when you do!
Good luck in your new career, Sharda! I’m rooting for you.
Susan Ireland’s Two Cents
Job Lounger, do you have a question? Email (joblounge@aol.com) it to me and I’ll post your question and an expert’s answer here in The Job Lounge.
Wednesday, April 04, 2007
To Sue or Not to Sue
Question
I had a stellar, award winning career at the US Postal Service. After sustaining an injury, which the Department of Labor agreed was work related, the USPS refused to provide work that met my doctor's restrictions. They went so far as to invent charges of USPS policy infractions as a reason to terminate my employment.
After appealing to the Union office in Washington, DC, the charges were dropped. The Department of Labor ordered the USPS to either provide work that I was physically able to do or pay to retrain me for a new career that paid a salary comparable to what I was earning at the USPS.
The Department of Labor suggested that I be retrained as a paralegal. That sounded good to me. And, I am currently studying in a certificate program. But, now I am finding out that without a bachelor's degree, plus experience working in a law office, the starting salary will be about $17,000 LESS per year than I was earning when I was terminated
by the USPS.
I have thought about suing the USPS for the difference in salary. What is your advice?
Answer
by Susan Ireland
You’ve already been through a lot of stress jumping through bureaucratic hoops. If I were you, I’d try to find a way into my next career with as little delay and hassle as possible.
I’m not a lawyer so I can’t say what your chances are of winning the lawsuit you have in mind. However, I do know that legal battles can be time, energy, and money consuming. Let’s try to put a dollar value on these three assets.
1. Your time: Your lawsuit might easily require you to spend many hours meeting with your lawyer, filling out papers, researching other cases, etc. If you spent that time working a paid position, how much money would you earn? (If you earned $10/hour and worked 40 hours, that would be $400. So, if you spent 40 hours of your personal time on the lawsuit, you would be “spending” $400 worth of your time.)
2. Your energy: Estimate the costs of managing your stress (therapy, doctors, gym membership, etc.). Depending on your situation, that could come to $1,000.
3. Your money: Fees to your lawyer could easily run into the thousands whether you pay your attorney an hourly fee (say, $250/hour) or you pay him on a contingency basis (say, 40% of the amount the court awards you).
So if you’re awarded your hoped-for $17,000, your net gain would be a fraction of that. And if the court awards you less than $17,000, you could even end up with a loss. Is it really worth it?
After months of a legal ordeal, you’d probably feel awful even if you won the money because lawsuits are stressful negative experiences at best. If I were you, I’d try to find a way to make $17,000 more a year in a positive environment that supports my health and well being, rather than battle through something at such emotional and possible financial expense.
I’m sorry you had this unfortunate experience with your previous employer. My advice is to move on. Perhaps you can find a different paralegal job that pays more money. Lucrative Paralegal Jobs says:
Maybe you can find a firm that offers a bonus system (as mentioned above) that could increase your current salary $17,000. Best of luck with this challenging situation!
I had a stellar, award winning career at the US Postal Service. After sustaining an injury, which the Department of Labor agreed was work related, the USPS refused to provide work that met my doctor's restrictions. They went so far as to invent charges of USPS policy infractions as a reason to terminate my employment.
After appealing to the Union office in Washington, DC, the charges were dropped. The Department of Labor ordered the USPS to either provide work that I was physically able to do or pay to retrain me for a new career that paid a salary comparable to what I was earning at the USPS.
The Department of Labor suggested that I be retrained as a paralegal. That sounded good to me. And, I am currently studying in a certificate program. But, now I am finding out that without a bachelor's degree, plus experience working in a law office, the starting salary will be about $17,000 LESS per year than I was earning when I was terminated
by the USPS.
I have thought about suing the USPS for the difference in salary. What is your advice?
Answer
by Susan Ireland
You’ve already been through a lot of stress jumping through bureaucratic hoops. If I were you, I’d try to find a way into my next career with as little delay and hassle as possible.
I’m not a lawyer so I can’t say what your chances are of winning the lawsuit you have in mind. However, I do know that legal battles can be time, energy, and money consuming. Let’s try to put a dollar value on these three assets.
1. Your time: Your lawsuit might easily require you to spend many hours meeting with your lawyer, filling out papers, researching other cases, etc. If you spent that time working a paid position, how much money would you earn? (If you earned $10/hour and worked 40 hours, that would be $400. So, if you spent 40 hours of your personal time on the lawsuit, you would be “spending” $400 worth of your time.)
2. Your energy: Estimate the costs of managing your stress (therapy, doctors, gym membership, etc.). Depending on your situation, that could come to $1,000.
3. Your money: Fees to your lawyer could easily run into the thousands whether you pay your attorney an hourly fee (say, $250/hour) or you pay him on a contingency basis (say, 40% of the amount the court awards you).
So if you’re awarded your hoped-for $17,000, your net gain would be a fraction of that. And if the court awards you less than $17,000, you could even end up with a loss. Is it really worth it?
After months of a legal ordeal, you’d probably feel awful even if you won the money because lawsuits are stressful negative experiences at best. If I were you, I’d try to find a way to make $17,000 more a year in a positive environment that supports my health and well being, rather than battle through something at such emotional and possible financial expense.
I’m sorry you had this unfortunate experience with your previous employer. My advice is to move on. Perhaps you can find a different paralegal job that pays more money. Lucrative Paralegal Jobs says:
Earnings of paralegals and legal assistants vary. Salaries are based on experience, education, training, the type and size of the employing company and the geographic location. In general, paralegals working for large legal firms or in large cities and metropolitan areas usually earn more than those who work within smaller firms or in remote regions. In addition to the salary, many companies offer a system of bonus to paralegals. The average starting salary can be anything around $30,000. Even the lowest paid is close to $26,000, while the top make as much as $60,000 or more.
Maybe you can find a firm that offers a bonus system (as mentioned above) that could increase your current salary $17,000. Best of luck with this challenging situation!
Tuesday, March 06, 2007
Why Hire This Lawyer?
Question
I am interviewing for an attorney position with a litigation firm that my recruiter coordinated. I am not prepared for the question, “Why should we hire you?” I have been litigating for four years, but I don’t know what to say. Please help me.
Answer
by David Sandusky, Founder/President of Your Brand. LLC
Your question is a very important one, not only for the interview process, but for your continued success in gaining clients and promotions. Do your homework about the firm so you can ask great questions and demonstrate that you are doing due diligence on the firm’s culture to identify whether or not you are a fit.
So why should they hire you? Take a hard look at your litigating and any other relevant experience. What value did you bring? List your skills and core competencies; core values; and your personal vision of a great attorney. Package all of these into a story with the firm and their clients in mind – help them be confident in your passion.
Ask yourself what value you bring to your new position that is above and beyond what your competition will likely bring? By doing your homework on identifying who you are and why that matters to your prospective employer, you should be able to help them feel good about hiring you!
David Sandusky is the founder of Your Brand, LLC, like an ad agency, but for people. For information on personal branding and the Personal Board of Advisors online tool, visit YourBrandPlan.com.
Susan Ireland’s Two Cents
Here are two blog posts you might find useful:
The Rules of Legal Job Interviews
Take This Lawyer’s Advice
Job Lounger, do you have a question? Email (joblounge@aol.com) it to me and I’ll post your question and an expert’s answer here in The Job Lounge.
I am interviewing for an attorney position with a litigation firm that my recruiter coordinated. I am not prepared for the question, “Why should we hire you?” I have been litigating for four years, but I don’t know what to say. Please help me.
Answer
by David Sandusky, Founder/President of Your Brand. LLC
Your question is a very important one, not only for the interview process, but for your continued success in gaining clients and promotions. Do your homework about the firm so you can ask great questions and demonstrate that you are doing due diligence on the firm’s culture to identify whether or not you are a fit.
So why should they hire you? Take a hard look at your litigating and any other relevant experience. What value did you bring? List your skills and core competencies; core values; and your personal vision of a great attorney. Package all of these into a story with the firm and their clients in mind – help them be confident in your passion.
Ask yourself what value you bring to your new position that is above and beyond what your competition will likely bring? By doing your homework on identifying who you are and why that matters to your prospective employer, you should be able to help them feel good about hiring you!
David Sandusky is the founder of Your Brand, LLC, like an ad agency, but for people. For information on personal branding and the Personal Board of Advisors online tool, visit YourBrandPlan.com.
Susan Ireland’s Two Cents
Here are two blog posts you might find useful:
The Rules of Legal Job Interviews
Take This Lawyer’s Advice
Job Lounger, do you have a question? Email (joblounge@aol.com) it to me and I’ll post your question and an expert’s answer here in The Job Lounge.
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