Page 56 - FDCC - You're Hired!

You’re Hired! Job Hunting Advice For Law Students and Young Lawyers
Dealing with Rejection
We’ve all dealt with rejection. We’ve all applied for jobs we did not get. Understand, that this is part of the process. It’s ok to be rejected. It’s ok to hear the word “no.” Sometimes being rejected is the best thing, because I know a lot of attorneys who landed the job of their dreams and the dream turned into a nightmare. Accept rejection as part of life.
How Do You Respond to “No.”
Don’t be angry at the word “no.” Don’t get depressed over the word “no.” Don’t ruminate over the word “no.” It’s just a word. It’s not a reflection on you. It’s not an estimation of your value or worth. Someone not giving you a job does not reflect on who you are. Every “no,” gets you closer to “yes.”
When Do You Settle?
SECTION 10 DEALING WITH REJECTION
We don’t always get our ideal job. Sometimes, due to our grades, the law school we attended, the lack of contacts, a poor economy, or lack of opportunities, we may have to accept a job that we don’t love but that we can accept. Life is life and life isn’t fair; and sometimes you don’t always get
what you want or what you deserve. But you have bills, and student loans and you have obligations and you make the best of the opportunities available to you. Everyone has to make the decision for themselves, but you have to decide what jobs you will settle for, why and when you will settle for them.
What Offers You Should Never Take
If you have to settle, do not accept a job with a law firm that has a history of:
◗ Ethical violations
◗ Sexual harassment
◗ Discrimination
◗ Unprofessional behavior
◗ Very high turnover
◗ Treats lawyers and staff poorly
There are ways to learn these things. Do your due diligence. Speak to recruiters. Speak to mentors. Keep your ear to the ground. Listen to the grapevine.
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