Winter Break is a time to recharge, but it is also a critical time to put your job search into high gear. The Career Center has some advice on how to make the most of your Winter Break.
1.) Recalibrate and Assess
The change in your daily rhythm gives you the ability to reassess your career goals and your approach to the job search. Take advantage of the clarity and your new vantage point. Schedule a virtual meeting or phone call with the Career Center to strategize on the next steps in your job search.
2.) Develop Alumni Connections
Informational meetings are a wonderful way to learn about different practice areas and legal markets and to begin growing your professional network, especially when it is with a WashULaw alum. Martindale-Hubbell and LinkedIn can be helpful tools to identify possible alumni connections. You can also reach out to the Career Center; strategists can help you identify alumni to reach out to or connect with. This Winter Break you can also take advantage of Quick Counsel. Modeled after the Summer Virtual Networking Program, this program provides the opportunity for you to sign up for a 10-minute informational meeting with practicing attorneys. Read more about the program here, and sign up for a spot on Symplicity.
3.) Meet with a Peer Career Advisor
Peer Career Advisors are available during Winter Break to meet with you to discuss application strategy, networking, and more. Please reach out to them individually via email to set up a virtual meeting. They are happy to help you!
4.) Attend Employer and Bar Association Events
With the temporary pause on in-person events, many employers and local bar associations are hosting virtual receptions or informational events to give you the opportunity to learn more and to meet their attorneys. Read the blog and check Symplicity for opportunities to connect with employers virtually over Winter Break. You can also check out your target employer and local bar association websites for free webinars and CLEs.
5.) Edit and Update Your Resume, Cover Letter and Writing Sample
The break is a great time to ensure you have included your most recent job experience and law school activities in your resume and cover letter and to perfect your writing sample. Updating your documents now is a simple way to be prepared for when the perfect position comes along. If you need help editing your materials, make an appointment through Symplicity to speak with a Career Center strategist.
6.) Apply, Apply, Apply!
Now is the time to send out applications. The more jobs you apply for, the better your chances of landing your dream position. How many applications should send out over Winter Break? We suggest targeting 25 applications per week (i.e., 3-4 per day) until you have an offer in hand.
Want more ideas on how to game plan for your Winter Break? Reach out to the Career Center to strategize. We are here all of Winter Break!