If you haven’t reconsidered your career strategy recently, now is a great time to start. You don’t have to overhaul your entire plan, but if you feel “stuck” in your current position or your job search doesn’t have the momentum you desire, a “spring cleaning” can help you move forward.
Here are six tips for fine-tuning your career strategy and getting back on track:
- Remember what you want most. A career strategy that gets you the work you want must reflect your most closely held goals. Spend some time considering what a successful career looks like for you – not only in terms of job titles or credentials, but also in terms of day-to-day work on the job and the type of law firm or legal department you would work for.
- Know how you “fit.” A good career fit isn’t just about experience or skills. It’s also about finding an organizational culture that supports the way you do your best work and appreciates your contribution. Are you a great team player? Do your co-workers turn to you for specific tips on certain tasks, or to remember key deadlines? Knowing your strengths helps you find a position or promotion that lets you use them.
- Fill in skills gaps. No legal support professional can know every area of law, but even within your practice area, you have both strengths and weaknesses. Once you know your strengths, use them to find the areas in which you are less strong and work to fill them. This may mean continuing education, seminars, or simply reading up in the topic area.
- “If I could do anything next, it would be….” Dream big. If you could choose your next project, position, or employer, what would it be and why? What attracts you to it? Name it, even if it seems unrealistic. Being clear on your “big dreams” helps you find and seize opportunities that move you closer to that ideal version of your professional self.
- Reach out to your professional network. Touch base with professional colleagues you haven’t seen in a while. Spring’s milder weather is a great time to go for a walk or grab a coffee during lunch. Whether you’re looking for a job or want to discuss your current career path, reconnecting with your network can open up new ideas and opportunities.
- Work with a recruiter. Staffing firms specialize in matching candidates with jobs and employers who offer a great fit. With a clear career plan in hand, talk to a staffing firm that focuses on placing legal support candidates. The more you and your recruiter know about your career plans, the better a potential “fit” may be.
At Kent Legal, our experienced recruiters can help you spruce up your career-path strategy and find a legal support position in Toronto that helps you achieve your goals. Contact us today to learn more.
