News

What's hot and what's not?
OK, the real estate market has cooled down, but fear not. Real Estate associates are still in demand, and Corporate is so strong that junior and midlevel RE associates can easily segue over into a corporate group.

As a matter of fact, Corporate midlevel associates are in so much demand that we can't find enough of them. Now would be a very good time to reassess your current situation and consider a move that will position you for partnership or a desirable in-house position. You can trade up to a better firm or make an opportunistic move to a firm that has pressing immediate needs - and you come charging in as the white knight. Keep in mind that more partners are made from laterals than from home growns.

Securitization, Structured Finance and Derivatives are also hot - and will continue to be. If you are in any of the transactional practices, try to find ways to incorporate any of the above into your practice.

In the not-so-hot category we have to point to the mortgage arena, where unfortunately some lenders have made bad investments and have been experiencing tremendous losses. Making legal lemonade out of that fact, we predict that although the economy remains generally strong, certain sectors will be seeing bankruptcies and therefore Bankruptcy will be one of the hottest areas in 2008.

Merger mania!!!
As we can see from the news, firm mergers and takeovers are still happening, and there is no indication that they are going to stop. In addition, partner movement is busier than ever. It is important to keep your ears open and listen to the buzz at the office, and then figure out how what you hear may affect you. We welcome your calls, and would be happy to have a confidential conversation with you about what firm changes may mean to you and your practice.

Tips

Dress for success
It may be a cliché, but first impressions are extremely important. We are told to not judge a book by its cover, but unfortunately most people don't take the time necessary to look at the contents. That being said, when going to a client for a meeting or to a prospective employer for an interview, a clean conservative approach to your presentation is the best way to go.

For both men and woman we recommend a dark suit, either navy or grey, and staying away from black (unless it is your only dark suit).

Wear a white shirt and a red tie if you are a man. Make sure you are clean-shaven, your shoes are shined and your nails are trimmed. Keep cologne to a minimum. Get a haircut.

For women, it is important to keep makeup, jewelry and perfume to a minimum. A fresh manicure and simple hairstyle are recommended.

You want a prospective employer to focus on you and your thoughts, not on what you are wearing. Most people realize this, but others just don't appreciate the importance of it. We have met candidates who have come to the interview dressed for clubbing or a cocktail party, and that look just doesn't fly. It is important that whomever you are meeting gets the impression that you are a serious attorney. If you want to inject some personal style into your work wardrobe, there's time enough after you have established your value and skills to your firm or company.

Moving right along...

Tips about relocation
We've helped many candidates to leave New York and find great jobs in other cities or countries. We've also enabled many candidates to move to New York from other places. There are many reasons people choose to or need to relocate. From our experience, what is key to making a successful transition is to have, or be able to demonstrate to potential employers, a strong connection to your new (or target) city, in addition to a commitment to their firm and culture.

Know why you are moving
For example, a company or firm might be concerned about your level of commitment if you are moving to a new location simply because your boyfriend or girlfriend just got a job there. Even though it sounds unfair, moving for a fiancé or spouse will carry more emotional weight with a potential employer. A potential employer also might be hesitant to commit to a person who decides to move to a new city simply because a wonderful vacation or visit to the place inspires them to spend the rest of their life there.

On the other hand, a strong family connection is taken very seriously as a reason for a move, as is a commitment to a place where you once attended school and have strong ties. Employers want to know that you are committed to your new home, as well as your new firm or company.

Keep everyone in the loop
When planning a move, it is also important to consider others who may be affected. You need to discuss your options with those in your life who may be uprooted, or even left behind. We have had several incidents when a candidate received an incredible job offer, accepted it, and then their spouse simply refused to move.

Know thyself... and thy resumé.
When interviewing, review your resumé so you are familiar with everything that is on it. Prepare a brief monologue about yourself. By having this information fresh in your mind you can avoid any awkward pauses.

Thank you!
With faxes and emails it is so easy to say thank you after an interview - and you always should. For a novel approach, try a handwritten note. Even though it doesn't get there right away, it is a great way to put your name in the interviewer's face again a few days later.