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Diamonds make their mark in the rough
On first impressions the current employment market may not seem the easiest environment in which to advance. With a strategic approach, however, your career can flourish, writes Grahame Doyle…
Lawyers Weekly
On first impressions the current employment market may not seem the easiest environment in which to advance. With a strategic approach, however, your career can flourish, writes Grahame Doyle director of Hays Legal
Look towards the long-term: Job security has inevitably come to the fore. While we've always advised candidates to pursue opportunities that offer long-term career growth and tenure over short-term monetary gains, now more than ever is the time to look towards lasting career stability.
Add value: Firms value candidates with good business development skills, while candidates at the senior associate or above level can make themselves more appealing to potential employers by increasing their strategic value.
Be flexible: Workflow in a particular practice area may have eased, so it is important to be willing to move into a different area for the short-term if required.
It's not just about the money: Flexibility in terms of salary is also important. Salaries have levelled and candidates should adopt more realistic expectations rather than approaching salary discussions with a hard-line attitude.
Sell yourself at interview: It may seem like a given, but it is critically important that you present yourself in the best way possible at interview. Given today's competitive market, you need to do your best to stand out from the crowd and if you are not on top of your game you run the risk of being overlooked.
Be patient: The hiring process has lengthened, with employers enjoying the luxury of increased candidate choice. Consequently expect a longer hiring time frame and, importantly, be patient.
Maintain confidence: Candidates that put their job searches on hold to see what comes could miss out on career growth. The top candidates today are those who are sure of their ability to make a difference and approach an interview with a positive and confident attitude.
