September 19, 2010

Writing effective cover letters (podcast)

Please click here (and then press play on the embedded link) to listen to a podcast on the subject of writing effective cover letters to law firms.
September 23, 2010

Isn’t all about the billable hour?

Recently, a prospective law student asked me this question. To succeed at a big law firm and ultimately make partner, isn’t all about the billable hour?
September 26, 2010

Most important characteristic of a good law firm job?

From my experience, the dream law firm job has decent, thoughtful partners (and associates) who are generally pleasant to work with and learn from.
October 4, 2010

The art of the follow-up

Writing an eye-catching cover letter is helpful, but persistent follow-up is key. In my experience (both personally and from mentoring)
October 8, 2010

Five take away points for writing effective cover letters

Below are some thoughts for writing effective cover letters to law firms. I will expand on each of these take away points (TAPs) in postings to follow
October 11, 2010

Write several people within the firm

Some thoughts about who should see your perfect cover letter (to the law firm): Write the obvious person with the title --- Hiring or Recruiting
October 20, 2010

The art of the follow-up (part two)

Thank you for your comments on the first post on this subject. People seem to be asking for additional suggestions for follow-up items
October 23, 2010

Be rigorous because tiny details matter

When preparing any correspondence or your resume, be as close to perfect as you can. Here are some suggestions: Pay attention to every little detail.
November 8, 2010

State how you can add value (up front and at end)

An effective cover letter should state how you can add value. In particular, the mission is to:
November 10, 2010

Show serious commitment to practice area

Another way to separate from the pack of cover letters and resumes is to demonstrate serious commitment to a particular practice area.
November 11, 2010

Meet high billable target solely for compensation

No, there are many reasons to work toward meeting the minimum billable hour target for bonuses.
November 20, 2010

When does it make sense to jump

Sometimes, I am asked about when it makes sense to move from one big law firm to another. I am interested in your thoughts.