On the Job and Professionalism

As firms start outreach to students about Preview interviews, make sure your voicemail is set up and professional and that you are checking it frequently. Also…

Missing deadlines is always unacceptable and could jeopardize your ability to secure an offer with your firm. Stay on top of all of your deadlines…

If you are splitting your summer between two different firms or offices, you must stay conscientious and focused because you will need to make a…

As you start your summer job, you may already be thinking about what’s next and considering a change of firm or market next summer/after graduation.

Every piece of work you turn in should be the highest quality that you are capable of. Even if you are asked for a “draft,”…

To the extent you have any choices among projects in your summer job, try to seek out writing projects. These projects will help develop your…

This summer when completing assignments, make sure you are using firm technology wisely. Do not use firm technology for personal use, always use reputable…

As you prepare to begin summer jobs, keep in mind a few key resources that may prove useful this summer. First, Hotshot Legal (you…

Beginning with the first day of your summer job, you should try to work with and speak to as many attorneys as possible, and try…

Conflicts checks are a necessary part of legal practice which will one day become second nature. For now, you can simplify your life down…

Make sure you are ready to put your best foot forward this summer. If you haven’t already, review the Professionalism Primer section of our…

After attending employer events, including last night’s Market Mixer, many students wonder about following up with those they met at the event. After a particularly good or lengthy conversation with an attorney, or if an attorney or recruiter encourages you to follow up, it is entirely appropriate to follow up with an email.

If you want to decline an offer, remember that even declining an offer is an opportunity to build your reputation and cultivate a relationship. Handle it professionally by following these guidelines.

With law firm receptions, understanding RSVP protocol is important. Firms track which students RSVP and attend their events, and may consider this information when considering a candidate. When making RSVP decisions, consider the following rubric of scenarios.

At this point in the 1L summer job search, you may be receiving offers from some positions while still interviewing for others. If an employer has extended you an offer with a deadline that does not allow you enough time to interview with and decide between other employers, you may ask the first employer to extend their decision deadline.

Wondering what to wear to law firm events? The dress code for these events can vary by firm and type of event, but the default is business casual.

During your 1L year, employers will host numerous events, including virtual employer chats and in-person reception-style events. You may even choose to attend some over winter break. Starting next semester, the number of these events will increase substantially.

Before you begin sending out your applications for this summer’s job opportunities or for networking inquiries, review these tips on professional email etiquette. Keep email short and on-point. Most lawyers get hundreds of emails each day.

As you begin preparing for networking and your summer job search, review your professional presence to make sure that all your possible interactions with potential employers show you in the best and most professional light.

If you participated in Preview or EIP and were fortunate enough to receive multiple offers, take stock of whether you have tied up all loose ends from the process.

If you have multiple offers from Preview or EIP, you must your list down to no more than three offers and promptly decline any offers you feel confident you will not accept.