Law Graduates struggling to find jobs
Following last year’s noteworthy success, where summer associates achieved record-high employment rates and salaries, the landscape has shifted drastically this year. This year’s law student are experiencing significant challenged when it comes to job offers with law firms being much more conservative in recruitment.
Data from NALP (National Association for Law Placement) indicates that recruitment has hit an 11-year low, as firms extend fewer offers to their summer associates, partly due to reduced demand. In particular, there has been a 19% decline in offers for law graduates this year whilst the increased size of classes, averaging 12% has intensified the competition pool.
In a stark contract, the previous year saw 92.6% of graduates employed within 10 months of graduation, the highest rate on record since 1974 with NALP.
A US 2024 Summer Associate Survey reveals that 37% are most concerned about not receiving a position at their summer law firm, their apprehensions seem to be warranted this year.
Why are law firms recruiting fewer summer associates?
The NALP report indicates that the reduction in hiring by Law firms’ is most likely the result of a slowing demand from clients as well as the excess capacity created from the record-high recruitment of summer associates in 2022. Notably, over 89% of the summer associates who were offered position in 2022 accepted and joined the firms in 2023.
How to make a lasting impression on your Summer Law firm
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Network
Utilise your time at the law firm to gain a thorough understanding of its operations as well as to build relationships with your colleagues. Demonstrating your ability and willingness to integrate into the firms culture can go along way for you chances of gaining a position there. Working with your team and those in the firm is crucial for your internship as well as working there everyday if you get the position and is a significant part of the interview process.
Networking with your colleagues is beneficial for fostering strong professional relationships withing the firm as well as your future career. Knowing influential and successful people within the industry can be useful in the future. Learning from those around you will contribute to your development as a lawyer.
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Keep a record of what you have achieved
If you have not maintained a record throughout your summer which details your projects, accomplishments and methodologies then it is important to reflect back and create an organised log. This can serve as a great foundation for creating a professional portfolio which you can present in your interview.
The record should highlight any contributions and achievements you have made during your time there and this could influence the interviewers’ decision in your favour.
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Take initiative and ask for more
Your willingness to learn is crucial, however, if you do not clearly demonstrate this then your interviewer may not recognise it. During your placement, you will be assigned tasks and projects, it is advised to proactively seek any additional responsibilities. This could include, taking a lead role or requesting extra tasks.
Taking the initiative showcases your eagerness to expand your knowledge and understanding of the workplace but also highlights your commitment to actively contributing to the firm.
