Studying for the Bar While Applying to Jobs

Applying to jobs during bar prep is normal and sometimes unavoidable. As much as you may want to devote 100% focus to the bar exam, it is a reality for many that you need to line up a job. To do this effectively, you need to balance bar studies with your job hunt.

Here are some tips to keep in mind when you are juggling success on the exam and securing success after the exam:

Positive Mindset

The thought of job applications and interviews during bar prep can sound daunting. If it does, have you considered how it can be exciting and motivating? During law school, a friend who became a licensed attorney said she landed her dream job interview during bar prep. While friends expressed their hesitation and encouraged her to skip it, she was excited the interview opportunity arose during bar prep. She said it was motivating to simultaneously study and prepare to give her best for the interview. In her eyes, passing the exam and landing this job went hand in hand. She was studying for an opportunity like this, and the interviewers were also eager for her to be licensed.

The purpose and end goal of the bar exam for many of us is to become licensed attorneys so that we can utilize our degree, knowledge, and skills to our best ability.

Additionally, many of us also need to make a living, pay off student loans and securing a job sooner than later can really help to move forward with life after the bar. For example, if you have taken time off work to study, then finding a job sooner may be more of a priority.

Don’t overdo it

Applying to jobs is like a full-time job. Some job applications are more extensive and demanding than others—requiring seemingly endless background and work history. Writing a cover letter can be as time-consuming as a practice MPT. Whether you are studying before or after the job application, the goal is to balance your time and energy so that you don’t diminish your studies in the process. Some ways you can achieve balance with your studies include:

• Allocate time each day to devote to job applications in order to break up the steps
• Take a break in between major tasks
• Shake off stress and go into your next task with a clear head

Reach Out

A stressful and sometimes awkward part of job applications are the references. Sometimes references need to be submitted as part of the application or after the interview. This aspect can take your references by surprise if they are not made aware in advance. A way to avoid the stress is to inform your references—previous employers and professors—that you are in the process of applying to various positions. Next, be sure to ask if they are willing to serve as a reference. It is important to ask because sometimes a reference is unavailable—perhaps it is a bad time for them right now, and they know they cannot be responsive.

Catching up with your references is a great way of maintaining your professional network. Also be sure to update them occasionally on your job hunt as a courtesy. Who knows, it can even lead to learning about potential opportunities.

Updating your references is also a great way of staying in touch and keeping your contacts updated on your next steps. Many of my references are also my professional mentors, so it was nice to touch base, and receive encouragement and guidance for the exam and my application submissions.

Don’t go at it alone

As a bar applicant, you have a lot on your plate so it is helpful to have a team of support throughout the job application process. For example, you may be struggling with formatting your resume, constructing a cover letter, what opportunities are available to you as a lawyer pending admission or sitting for an administration of the bar exam. If you are struggling, or just need direction— know that you don’t have to go through this process alone. Check out CareerDicta, which provides strategies and resources to jumpstart your legal career.

Use bar prep to your advantage

Remember that licensed attorneys reviewing your application and interviewing you remember what it was like to be in your shoes. This automatically gives you something in common with interviewers so don’t be shy about using the shared bar experience as an icebreaker. Another advantage is that your ability to put your best professional foot forward while you are taking a high-stakes and high-pressure exam shows strengths that employers look for.

Know that it is possible to compile a strong job application and balance it with making daily bar exam progress! Before you know it, you will see you passed and got hired!