June 13, 2008 3:37 PM

LETTER TO THE SUMMERS: One Recruiter's Strategies for Success

Posted by Dimitra Kessenides

With the economy going downhill, and dramatic and increasingly frequent reports of layoffs at law firms across the country, summer associate angst seems to be at an all-time high.

Let's talk about this unexpected challenge. It's only natural to feel suddenly devalued, confused, and worried about your future. Especially after the feeding frenzy of the 2007 recruiting season, summer class sizes may now strike some of you as bloated.

In pursuit of the golden ticket--the job offer--it's essential that you focus on the job at hand and not let yourself slide into a meltdown. Worrying takes energy, and you're better off redirecting that energy to your work assignments and relationships. Plus, worrying stands in the way of a positive and engaging attitude. To this end, always be mindful of your actions and reactions.

Consider--and act on--creative and productive responses to some downturn dilemmas:

Not enough work?

-Take on a pro bono project: Learn about opportunities that exist and volunteer to take on appropriate work under lawyer supervision. Then, once you’ve handled a matter, take some initiative: Write a memorandum about your experiences to enhance your work file.

-Find a friendly lawyer and ask to shadow him/her for a day. If an opportunity presents itself in which you can be helpful, volunteer to pitch in where you can add value. Watch and learn everything you can: You won’t get many more opportunities like this.

-Attend every practice group meeting that you can. If your firm hasn’t already put some on your calendar, ask your recruiting professional when such meetings take place and if you can attend.  Your presence will remind the lawyers that you exist. I can’t say it enough: If an opportunity arises that you believe you can handle, and have something to contribute to, volunteer!

Worried about the firm’s finances?

-Seek an opportunity to inquire about the firm's plans for the future (start with your recruiting professional). The right questions to ask: Is there a strategic plan? How is the firm financially structured?

-Wondering if it's okay to ask?  Frankly, if the firm discourages you, that’s a red flag. These are questions about issues that affect your future, too.

Personality conflicts?

-Is the stress taking a toll on your summer class culture?  Be the mitigator, the positive influence.  Trust me, it will be noticed.

Work not what you expected?

-Make this your mantra: Everything I learn this summer will be of future value. Experience of any kind is gain. I WILL use this all someday.

-Even a less-than-preferred writing project will ultimately provide you with a writing sample you can use. Make it your best work.

I don't need to remind you that you wouldn't be where you are without being intelligent, creative, and resourceful. Refocus your energy toward positive relationships and essential work experience. These are the real golden tickets that will serve you beyond the vagaries of the current market, and (believe it or not) long after the results of the 2008 summer program are forgotten.

--Lynne Traverse is recruiting and professional development manager at Bryan Cave

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