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<![CDATA[ Vault.com Career Advice Blog ]]>
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<![CDATA[ Get expert advice on resumes, cover letters, interviewing, networking, and more. Read about the latest news and trends in salaries, benefits, and other workplace issues affecting your career. ]]>
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<![CDATA[ How to Adjust to a New Boss ]]>
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<description>
<![CDATA[ Got a new boss starting at work? Here's how to make the most out of the situation. ]]>
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<link>https://firsthand.co/blogs/workplace-issues/how-to-adjust-to-a-new-boss</link>
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<![CDATA[ Workplace Issues ]]>
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<pubDate>Thu, 29 Jun 2023 00:00:00 GMT</pubDate>
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<content><p>During your career, you’ll undoubtedly deal with a lot of changes. From changing jobs or getting a promotion, to a change of location or new management, it’s important to learn how to roll with the punches. When your boss leaves and someone new comes in to replace them, you might be left with feelings of uncertainty; however, it could actually be a good opportunity for you to score some serious points at work. Here are some tips to help you adjust to a new boss in the workplace.</p> <p><strong>Make a Good First Impression</strong></p> <p>This one should be pretty easy. If you’ve been good with showing up to work on time, try taking it a step further and show up 15 minutes early. A good tactic for saving time in the morning is to have breakfast at work. In most cases, there should be a small kitchen where you can store certain food items, or you could always pack your breakfast along with your lunch.</p> <p>It’s also important to present yourself as a motivated and positive individual. If your new boss is talking to you, be attentive and ask questions if you’re unfamiliar with their management style. As with the remaining entries on this list, you’re walking a fine line here—you want to demonstrate dedication and optimism, but don’t overdo it.</p> <p><strong>Be Empathetic</strong></p> <p>It can take some time to adjust to a new boss, especially if their management style or ways of communicating vary greatly from your previous boss. It’s important to remember that while you’re experiencing these growing pains, so is your new boss. They’re in a new place, with all new people, and have to adjust to their environment and show some results very quickly.</p> <p>It’s quite possible that your new boss will have questions, so do your best to help them adjust. Not only will they appreciate it, but they’ll start to see you as the point person on your team, which can lead to great things such as a raise or perhaps a promotion. The bottom line is, everyone is in a new situation and it’s best to work together to iron out all the wrinkles.</p> <p><strong>Be a Problem Solver</strong></p> <p>Since your boss is new, they might be unaware of certain pre-existing problems within your team. Perhaps there’s a project that hit a standstill, or someone else left the company suddenly, leaving your team short-handed. In most cases, your new boss will have been informed of any major issues during the hiring process, but your day-to-day experience gives you the advantage of knowing the problems at the ground level.</p> <p>If you’ve been quietly devising solutions to any problems within your team, you should share them with your new boss. Use your intuition and look for an opening—you don’t want to bombard your new boss with problems, especially when they’re dealing with multiple challenges all at once. Again, there’s a fine line with things like this. You want to come off as genuinely helpful, not as someone who has ulterior motives.</p> <p><strong>Give it Time</strong></p> <p>You might have had a great relationship with your previous boss, and maybe you were shocked to learn they were leaving. If this is the case, it can certainly have a negative impact on morale, but do your best to be patient. Come into work with a positive attitude, keep an open mind, and give yourself plenty of time to adjust. Eventually, you might even grow to prefer your new boss’ management style.</p> <p>On the other hand, if you had issues with your previous boss and found that you were always at odds with them, this is a great opportunity to turn it all around. This scenario is one of those rare instances where life gives us a “reset button,” so take advantage of it and put your best foot forward. This might just be the change that you needed to reinvigorate your drive and motivation to succeed.</p> <p><strong>Schedule a Meeting</strong></p> <p>Your new boss might suggest scheduling one-on-one meetings with each member of your team. Alternatively, they might hold a team meeting in which they introduce themselves, provide a little background on their experience, and open the floor for questions towards the end of the meeting. This is a great opportunity to get to know your new boss and gain some insight into their management style.</p> <p>In the event your new boss does not suggest scheduling such meetings, give it a week or two and take the time to come up with any questions you might have. When you notice things starting to calm down a bit, ask your boss if they have some time to meet up. In almost every case, a new boss will be happy to give you the time to formally introduce yourself. Along with this, those questions you came up with will demonstrate a genuine interest in learning and growing with your new boss.</p> <p>One of the most important lessons you can learn is how to deal with changes in a constructive way. When it comes to a change in management, there are many things you can do to seize the opportunity and turn it into something positive. Patience is key, and always remember to be optimistic in the face of changes because you never know where they will lead.</p></content>
<dc:creator>
<![CDATA[ Rob Porter ]]>
</dc:creator>
<guid nid="277801">https://firsthand.co/blogs/workplace-issues/how-to-adjust-to-a-new-boss</guid>
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<title>
<![CDATA[ How to Write Business Memos Like a Management Consultant ]]>
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<description>
<![CDATA[ Here are four guiding principles that will allow you to improve your skills in constructing business memos. ]]>
</description>
<link>https://firsthand.co/blogs/consult-this-consulting-careers-news-and-views/how-to-write-business-memos-like-a-management-consultant</link>
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<![CDATA[ Consulting ]]>
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<category>
<![CDATA[ Workplace Issues ]]>
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<pubDate>Wed, 28 Jun 2023 00:00:00 GMT</pubDate>
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<content><p>In the <a rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://firsthand.co/blogs/consult-this-consulting-careers-news-and-views/how-to-identify-the-ideal-management-consulting-firm" target="_blank">consulting</a> industry, management consultants are expected to clearly and concisely synthesize raw data and offer actionable insights. Management consultants typically create <a rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://firsthand.co/blogs/consult-this-consulting-careers-news-and-views/how-to-give-a-powerpoint-presentation-like-a-management-consultant" target="_blank">PowerPoint presentation</a> decks to organize analysis and present their recommendations to the client. However, sometimes management consultants are also tasked with writing business memos, which serve as long-form writing and detailed narratives in conjunction with the PowerPoint presentation. </p> <p>Below are four guiding principles that will allow you to improve your skills in constructing business memos.</p> <p><strong>1. Structure chronologically  </strong></p> <p>While <a rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://firsthand.co/blogs/consult-this-consulting-careers-news-and-views/how-to-give-a-powerpoint-presentation-like-a-management-consultant" target="_blank">starting with the conclusion</a> is a great approach when delivering a presentation, it does not work with writing memos. With presentations, people are anxious to jump to the central idea or the crux of the presentation, but with memos, people take the time in understanding the breadth and the depth of the subject matter, and therefore, presenting information chronologically is the best approach.</p> <p>Start with the introduction, followed by the problem statement and analysis, and end with recommendations and a conclusion. You could begin with an abstract or a summary to give your reader a blueprint of how the memo is organized, but do not abruptly start your memo with the conclusion.</p> <p><strong>2. Acronyms, jargons, buzzwords … use sporadically, if you must</strong></p> <p>Often, we hide our lack of understanding or knowledge about subjects by using industry jargon or buzzwords. Incidentally, management consultants have been accused of using buzzwords on numerous occasions. The secret to making sure that we truly understand something is by breaking the idea into simple words. Doing so requires stripping out the complexity in the pursuit of simplicity. The <a rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://firsthand.co/blogs/consult-this-consulting-careers-news-and-views/how-to-problem-solve-like-a-management-consultant" target="_blank">Mutually Exclusive Collectively Exhaustive (MECE) framework</a> is an elegant method of breaking ideas into their simplest form.</p> <p>Try to avoid using jargon and buzzwords as much as possible. There is nothing particularly wrong with using acronyms or abbreviations, but if you use them too often, it can be distracting to the reader. Also, make sure to spell out the acronym or the abbreviation the first time you use it in the memo. If you happen to be using several different acronyms and abbreviations in your memo, it is good practice to include an appendix page that summarizes all the acronyms and abbreviations with their respective definitions.</p> <p><strong>3. Anticipate questions and try to answer them in the memo</strong></p> <p>When presenting using PowerPoint slides, you are responsible for building client engagement and have active dialogues back and forth. If clients have questions during your presentation, they will also likely interrupt your presentation to ask questions. Delivering a business memo, however, requires significantly less client engagement. You would likely email the memo to your client or print it and leave it in your client’s office. Your clients would likely read your memo in your absence. And as they are reading it, they will likely have follow-up questions or clarifications. Anticipate what those questions could be, and try to answer them in the memo. This will not only reduce the number of iterations your memo goes through but will also make your client appreciate the clarity of thought that you put into your writing.</p> <p><strong>4. (Almost) never finish a memo and send it right away to your client</strong></p> <p>Sometimes you can be so deep in your writing that even randomly constructed ideas seem logical and readable. And that’s why it is important to take a break from your finished memo. When you think you have finished the writing and your memo is ready for submission, take a break and give it a rest. Revisit it later (perhaps after a nap or a good night’s sleep) and read it out loud for readability to see whether all the pieces of the memo still fit cohesively.</p> <p>If you’re pressed for time and have no choice but to submit your memo right away because the client is asking for it, of course go ahead and send it. But if you can, try to manage your time and client expectations so you don’t have to submit a memo immediately after you write it.</p> <p><em>Recipient of the Presidential Award from The White House, </em><a rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://scholar.harvard.edu/vibhu" target="_blank"><em>Vibhu Sinha</em></a><em> is an intrapreneurial and bottom-line driven senior management professional with experience in leadership roles across banking and capital markets. He has advised institutional clients on corporate strategy, idea generation and pitching, financial planning and analysis, M&A, investor relations, and ESG. Vibhu developed his acumen in Behavioral Psychology at Harvard University as part of a master's degree program. He also earned an M.B.A. from UCLA Anderson.</em></p></content>
<dc:creator>
<![CDATA[ Vibhu Sinha ]]>
</dc:creator>
<guid nid="277802">https://firsthand.co/blogs/consult-this-consulting-careers-news-and-views/how-to-write-business-memos-like-a-management-consultant</guid>
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<title>
<![CDATA[ Announcing the Vault Law 2024 Best Law Firms to Work For, Best Law Firms for Diversity, and Best Summer Associate Program Rankings ]]>
</title>
<description>
<![CDATA[ Vault Law announces the 2024 Rankings for Best Law Firms to Work For, Best Law Firms for Diversity, and Best Summer Associate Program. ]]>
</description>
<link>https://firsthand.co/blogs/vaults-law-blog-legal-careers-and-industry-news/announcing-the-vault-law-2024-best-law-firms-to-work-for-best-law-firms-for-diversity-and-best-summer-associate-program-rankings</link>
<guid isPermaLink="true">https://firsthand.co/blogs/vaults-law-blog-legal-careers-and-industry-news/announcing-the-vault-law-2024-best-law-firms-to-work-for-best-law-firms-for-diversity-and-best-summer-associate-program-rankings</guid>
<category>
<![CDATA[ Job Search ]]>
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<category>
<![CDATA[ Education ]]>
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<category>
<![CDATA[ Grad School ]]>
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<category>
<![CDATA[ Law ]]>
</category>
<category>
<![CDATA[ General Articles ]]>
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<pubDate>Wed, 28 Jun 2023 00:00:00 GMT</pubDate>
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<content><p>Vault Law’s 2024 quality of life rankings are official. “If you want to work at a large, prestigious firm with top quality of life attributes, Clifford Chance is the place to be,” says Carter Isham, Senior Law Editor at Vault. The firm made the top 10 for every quality of life category and claimed 15 out of 26 No. 1 rankings, including <a href="https://firsthand.co/best-companies-to-work-for/law/best-law-firms-to-work-for" target="_blank">Best Overall Law Firm to Work For</a>, <a href="https://firsthand.co/best-companies-to-work-for/law/best-law-firms-for-diversity" target="_blank">Best Overall Law Firm for Diversity</a>, and <a href="https://firsthand.co/best-companies-to-work-for/law/best-summer-associate-programs" target="_blank">Best Overall Summer Associate Program</a>.</p> <p>The 2024 Top 10 Best Law Firms to Work For are:</p> <p>#1 <a href="https://firsthand.co/company-profiles/law/clifford-chance-us-llp" target="_blank">Clifford Chance US LLP</a></p> <p>#2 <a href="https://firsthand.co/company-profiles/law/omelveny-myers-llp" target="_blank">O’Melveny & Myers LLP</a></p> <p>#3 <a href="https://firsthand.co/company-profiles/law/mcdermott-will-emery" target="_blank">McDermott Will & Emery</a> (tie)</p> <p>#3 <a href="https://firsthand.co/company-profiles/law/morgan-lewis-bockius-llp" target="_blank">Morgan, Lewis & Bockius LLP</a> (tie)</p> <p>#5 <a href="https://firsthand.co/company-profiles/law/bakerhostetler" target="_blank">BakerHostetler</a></p> <p>#6 <a href="https://firsthand.co/company-profiles/law/orrick-herrington-sutcliffe-llp" target="_blank">Orrick</a></p> <p>#7 <a href="https://firsthand.co/company-profiles/law/fried-frank-harris-shriver-jacobson-llp" target="_blank">Fried, Frank, Harris, Shriver & Jacobson LLP</a></p> <p>#8 <a href="https://firsthand.co/company-profiles/law/proskauer-rose-llp" target="_blank">Proskauer Rose LLP</a></p> <p>#9 <a href="https://firsthand.co/company-profiles/law/dechert-llp" target="_blank">Dechert</a></p> <p>#10 <a href="https://firsthand.co/company-profiles/law/gibson-dunn-crutcher-llp" target="_blank">Gibson Dunn</a></p> <p>This year’s ranking saw significant changes in the Best Law Firms to Work for ranking, including changes to the top 10, with Clifford Chance moving up four spots to take No. 1 and two firms moving into the top 10—BakerHostetler at No. 5 and Proskauer Rose at No. 8. Gibson Dunn is the only member of this year’s Vault 10 (the 10 most prestigious law firms, according to current associates) to also make the top 10 Best Law Firms to Work For list.</p> <p>Clifford Chance took the top spot in seven subcategories: Associate/Partner Relations, Career Outlook, Formal Training, Informal Training, Hours, Quality of Work, and Technology. Associates say that “partners are often vocal about how appreciative they are of associates,” that “there are plenty of opportunities for professional development, through billable work, pro bono work, and business development work,” and that the firm is “very collegial and social.”</p> <p>Other new No. 1s include: O’Melveny for Firm Culture and Wellness; <a href="https://firsthand.co/company-profiles/law/wachtell-lipton-rosen-katz" target="_blank">Wachtell, Lipton, Rosen & Katz</a> for Compensation; <a href="https://firsthand.co/company-profiles/law/williams-connolly-llp" target="_blank">Williams & Connolly LLP</a> for Business Outlook; and <a href="https://firsthand.co/company-profiles/law/munger-tolles-olson-llp" target="_blank">Munger, Tolles & Olson LLP</a> for Lateral & Clerk Integration. McDermott retained its No. 1 spots in Satisfaction and Transparency; Morgan Lewis held onto No. 1 for Pro Bono; and Williams & Connolly remains No. 1 for Selectivity.</p> <p><strong>DIVERSITY RANKINGS</strong></p> <p>There were new No. 1s in each of the Diversity Rankings, with Clifford Chance claiming the top spot in Overall Diversity, Diversity for Women, Diversity for LGBTQ+ Individuals, and Diversity for Individuals with Disabilities. As one Clifford Chance associate said, “The firm is shockingly proactive and enthusiastic about diversity—I am a diverse individual and a natural Scrooge about these initiatives, but they have won me over. Lawyers participate, programs are sponsored, and affinity groups are active.”</p> <p>Other changes in Diversity included O’Melveny & Myers moving into the No. 1 spot for Racial & Ethnic Diversity. In Overall Diversity, BakerHostetler moved up five spots to No. 4, <a href="https://firsthand.co/company-profiles/law/littler-mendelson-pc" target="_blank">Littler Mendelson P.C.</a> and <a href="https://firsthand.co/company-profiles/law/morrison-foerster-llp" target="_blank">Morrison & Foerster LLP</a> moved up over 15 spots each to No. 7 and No. 12, respectively, and five firms joined from unranked in 2023: Proskauer landed in the top 10, and <a href="https://firsthand.co/company-profiles/law/sheppard-mullin" target="_blank">Sheppard Mullin</a>, <a href="https://firsthand.co/company-profiles/law/ballard-spahr-llp" target="_blank">Ballard Spahr</a>, <a href="https://firsthand.co/company-profiles/law/haynes-and-boone-llp" target="_blank">Haynes Boone</a>, and <a href="https://firsthand.co/company-profiles/law/jenner-block-llp" target="_blank">Jenner & Block</a> ranked in the top 20 Best Law Firms for Diversity. The diversity rankings, like our other rankings, reflect associates’ opinions, not diversity statistics.</p> <p><strong>SUMMER PROGRAM RANKINGS</strong></p> <p>The Summer Program rankings saw a fair bit of movement throughout as well. “Summer programs looked very different over the past few years due to pandemic-related restrictions, and each firm handled things differently,” said Isham. She added, “Because the Summer Program rankings come from junior associates who participated in their current firm’s summer program, we see firms’ decisions reflected in the 2024 Summer Program rankings.” Clifford Chance retained their top spot in Best Overall Summer Associate Program and Best Summer Program for Career Development and added a No. 1 ranking in Best Summer Program for Social Experiences. As one associate said, “Because my summer program was intentionally designed to mirror the first few months as an associate, I felt like my first few months at the firm were easier. I knew what to expect.”</p> <p><a href="https://firsthand.co/company-profiles/law/kramer-levin-naftalis-frankel-llp" target="_blank">Kramer Levin</a> also made notable moves in the Summer Program rankings, popping into top-10 spots in all categories and claiming No. 1 Best Summer Program for Attorney Interactions. <a href="https://firsthand.co/company-profiles/law/bracewell-llp" target="_blank">Bracewell</a>, Morgan Lewis, and <a href="https://firsthand.co/company-profiles/law/jackson-walker" target="_blank">Jackson Walker</a> also ranked in the top 10 of each Summer Program ranking.<br /><br /> <strong>VAULT LAW RANKINGS</strong></p> <p>The Vault Law 2024 Rankings are derived from Vault’s Annual Associate Survey, conducted from January 2023 through March 2023. To determine the Overall Best Law Firms to Work For, Vault uses a formula that weighted the most relevant categories in the following formula: 25% satisfaction; 10% firm culture; 10% hours; 10% compensation; 10% quality of work; 5% business outlook; 5% career outlook; 5% associate/partner relations; 5% transparency; 5% formal and informal training; 5% pro bono; and 5% overall diversity. To determine the Overall Best Law Firms for Diversity, Vault uses a formula that evenly weighs the four categories of Diversity for Women, Racial & Ethnic Diversity, Diversity for LGBTQ+ Individuals, and Diversity for Individuals with Disabilities. For Overall Best Summer Associate Programs, Vault uses a formula that averages six individual ratings: attorney interactions, substantive assignments, training and mentoring, preparation for associate life, quality of events, and satisfaction with firm-sponsored social opportunities and interactions.</p></content>
<dc:creator>
<![CDATA[ Carter Isham ]]>
</dc:creator>
<guid nid="277799">https://firsthand.co/blogs/vaults-law-blog-legal-careers-and-industry-news/announcing-the-vault-law-2024-best-law-firms-to-work-for-best-law-firms-for-diversity-and-best-summer-associate-program-rankings</guid>
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<![CDATA[ Cover Letter Tips for Recent Graduates ]]>
</title>
<description>
<![CDATA[ Here are five tips to craft an impressive cover letter as a recent graduate. ]]>
</description>
<link>https://firsthand.co/blogs/resumes-cover-letters/cover-letter-tips-for-recent-graduates</link>
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<![CDATA[ Resumes & Cover Letters ]]>
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<![CDATA[ Education ]]>
</category>
<category>
<![CDATA[ Grad School ]]>
</category>
<pubDate>Tue, 27 Jun 2023 00:00:00 GMT</pubDate>
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<content><p>Searching for your first job after graduation can seem daunting, but with the right tools, like a <a rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://resumegenius.com/cover-letter-examples" target="_blank">polished cover letter</a>, you can stand out from other candidates. Here are five tips to craft an impressive cover letter as a recent graduate.</p> <p><strong>1. Showcase relevant academic achievements</strong></p> <p>Don't worry about having limited professional experience. What you can do instead is mention important academic achievements you’ve cultivated that are relevant to the position you’re applying for. Of course, in your cover letter, you can talk about any internships you've had, but you can also talk about relevant coursework or projects from college related to the position.</p> <p>For example, if you're applying for a marketing role and you led a successful fundraising campaign for a club or organization in college, highlight how this experience equipped you with hands-on knowledge of campaign planning, execution, and team management.</p> <p><strong>2. Leverage practical experiences</strong></p> <p>When crafting your letter, think about your time participating in clubs or associations, volunteer work, or fieldwork. Then think about the skills, hands-on experience, and industry exposure that you acquired through your involvement in these activities.</p> <p>It’s important when discussing your practical experiences in your cover letter that you don't forget to spotlight any notable accomplishments you've earned. Did you fill a leadership position, win an award, or gain recognition for your work? Ensure that you list this information, as well as the skills that you gained along the way. If you were part of a debate team, for example, share how it enhanced your persuasive communication skills and how this characteristic would be beneficial for roles in sales or consulting.</p> <p><strong>3. Highlight soft skills</strong></p> <p>Your academic years have certainly provided you with skills that can translate to your professional career. So, as you <a rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://firsthand.co/blogs/resumes-cover-letters/do-you-still-need-to-write-a-cover-letter-in-2022" target="_blank">put together your cover letter</a>, point out the skills that you gained from your practical experiences and how they translate to the position you want. When doing so, elaborate more on your soft skills that were developed indirectly as a result of your academic work. Think about when you collaborated on projects or worked in a team, and highlight any teamwork skills, leadership skills, problem solving skills, and conflict resolution skills you gained as a result. And if you coordinated tasks in a group project, this is an opportunity to show off your project management skills.</p> <p><strong>4. Demonstrate passion and enthusiasm for the industry</strong></p> <p>It’s important that your cover letter conveys your excitement for the field you’re entering. So, you might discuss experiences that ignited your passion for the field and helped you decide which way you want to go in your professional career. For instance, if attending a technology conference sparked your interest in artificial intelligence and led you to take additional courses, be sure to include it.</p> <p>In addition, showing your genuine interest in continuing to learn and grow in the field is a great way to make a positive impression on the recruiter reading your cover letter. So, you might mention what you’re looking forward to in the future to continue your professional development in the field. This could mean talking about a graduate degree or just a single class you want to take to boost your industry-specific skills.</p> <p><strong>5. Use keywords and tailor them to the job description</strong></p> <p>As you plan out your cover letter, hop on job sites and go over descriptions from similar roles. Take note of important key words or phrases that you see in multiple job posts so that you can bring them up in your cover letter. For example, if you notice that data analyst roles often list Python, SQL, or Tableau, and you have experience with these, include them in your cover letter. Tailoring your letter in this way shows that you understand the job requirements and have the skills to meet them.</p> <p>Also, while it might seem tiresome, personalizing your cover letter for each role or company you apply to is incredibly effective. When applying to two different companies for similar roles, you’ll likely have skills that overlap. Even so, emphasize the skills that are more important for each specific role or company. This personalization demonstrates why you’re a good candidate for the position that you’re applying for and that you took the time to research the role and explain why you’d be an excellent fit.</p> <p><em>Eva Chan is a Career Counselor and Certified Professional Resume Writer (CPRW) at </em><em><a rel="noopener noreferrer" href="http://resumegenius.com" target="_blank">Resume Genius</a>, and has a background in the education management industry. Eva graduated from the University of British Columbia with a bachelor’s degree in English. She’s since coached a variety of people at different stages of their career paths: interns, undergraduate and graduate students, managers, and C-suite executives.</em></p></content>
<dc:creator>
<![CDATA[ Eva Chan ]]>
</dc:creator>
<guid nid="277791">https://firsthand.co/blogs/resumes-cover-letters/cover-letter-tips-for-recent-graduates</guid>
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<title>
<![CDATA[ 5 Awesome STEM Jobs That Let You Work from Home ]]>
</title>
<description>
<![CDATA[ STEM jobs aren't all white coats and lab work. Here are some great STEM careers that let you work from home. ]]>
</description>
<link>https://firsthand.co/blogs/job-search/5-awesome-stem-jobs-that-let-you-work-from-home</link>
<guid isPermaLink="true">https://firsthand.co/blogs/job-search/5-awesome-stem-jobs-that-let-you-work-from-home</guid>
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<![CDATA[ Job Search ]]>
</category>
<category>
<![CDATA[ Salary & Benefits ]]>
</category>
<pubDate>Tue, 27 Jun 2023 00:00:00 GMT</pubDate>
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<content><p>Jobs in science, technology, engineering, and mathematics are in great demand these days. In fact, jobs in STEM fields are expected to grow 15% between now and 2031. With National Work From Home Day right around the corner, we thought we’d put together a nice list of some of the best STEM jobs that let you work from home. Now, without further ado, let’s begin.</p> <p><strong>Technical Support</strong></p> <p>If you’ve ever had trouble setting up a new device, you might have spoken to a helpful tech support representative either over the phone or through a website’s chat service. Many companies are allowing tech support representatives to work from home, as long as they have a phone and an internet connection…you have those things by now, right?</p> <p>To be a technical support representative, you probably won’t need a college degree as most times they’re considered to be entry-level jobs. That makes this role perfect for those who are still in college and looking to make some extra cash. The average salary of a tech support representative is around $35,000 per year.</p> <p><strong>Teacher</strong></p> <p>In order for anyone to get into most STEM fields they’ll first need to obtain a degree, which is where our trusty teachers come into play. Nowadays, virtual teaching is becoming more of a thing so these types of roles will be in ever-increasing demand. As a remote math or science teacher, you’ll be required to have excellent communication and time management skills. In addition to this, you might have to prove yourself in a traditional, in-the-classroom role before you’re allowed to go fully remote.</p> <p>Depending on what grade you want to teach, the requirements to be a virtual teacher will vary. For example, most schools will want to see a master’s degree if you’re teaching anywhere up to and including high school students, while colleges typically want a doctorate. Along with this, your salary could vary wildly, ranging anywhere from $60,000 to $90,000 per year.</p> <p><strong>Registered Nurse</strong></p> <p>When we think of nurses, we imagine hospitals, a fast-paced working environment, and long hours; however, as a registered nurse there are ways in which you can land a remote job as well. Some examples of remote nursing jobs are case managers, educators, research nurses, or remote triage nurses. Empathetic individuals with strong critical thinking and communication skills make great nurses.</p> <p>The path to becoming a nurse will take some time, but it’s a very rewarding career for those who are passionate about it. Typically, you’ll need a bachelor’s of science in nursing, or an associate's degree in nursing along with an RN license. The average salary of a registered nurse is around $80,000 per year, but this can vary depending on factors such as your location.</p> <p><strong>Mobile Developer</strong></p> <p>Ever download a new mobile application on your phone or tablet that greatly enhanced your day-to-day experience, or perhaps helped to increase your productivity at work? If so, and you’d like to try your hand at creating something that can help others, you’d probably enjoy a career as a mobile app developer. In this role you’ll be involved in the design, testing, release, and support of user-friendly mobile apps.</p> <p>If you’re interested in becoming a mobile developer, you’ll need to obtain a bachelor’s degree in computer science, information systems, or a related field. In addition to this, mobile developers are typically required to demonstrate proficient knowledge of computer languages for a variety of operating systems. As a mobile developer, you can expect to make anywhere between $75,000 and $130,000 per year.</p> <p><strong>Web Designer</strong></p> <p>A company’s website can be a major asset if done correctly. On the other hand, a website that isn’t very user-friendly or that is otherwise broken can cause potential customers to turn away. A good web designer understands this, and they take the time to optimize a website’s performance and the overall user experience.</p> <p>Web designers sometimes have a bachelor’s degree in computer science or a related field, but you can also land a job as a web designer if you don’t have a degree. In order to do this, you’ll have to demonstrate proficiency with software programs such as CSS, HTML, and JavaScript. If you don’t have a degree, you should also seek to build up a portfolio in order to showcase your experience to potential employers. As a web designer, you’ll be making anywhere between $50,000 to $100,000 a year.</p> <p>When thinking of STEM roles, we might conjure up images of labs, people in white coats, and computers and other expensive-looking (and probably <em>actually</em> expensive) tools and machines; however, there are many jobs in the STEM world that can be done from home. If you’ve got a passion for all things STEM and you also don’t want to deal with a commute, these roles are right up your alley.</p></content>
<dc:creator>
<![CDATA[ Rob Porter ]]>
</dc:creator>
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<title>
<![CDATA[ 5 Tips for a Successful Summer Internship Experience ]]>
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<description>
<![CDATA[ Find out how to make the best of your summer internship and leave a lasting impression on your employer. ]]>
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<link>https://firsthand.co/blogs/internships/5-tips-for-a-successful-summer-internship-experience</link>
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<![CDATA[ Internships ]]>
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<category>
<![CDATA[ Resumes & Cover Letters ]]>
</category>
<pubDate>Tue, 27 Jun 2023 00:00:00 GMT</pubDate>
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<content><p class="Body">An internship is a great way to expand your knowledge and apply what you've learned during your studies. It’s also a great way to gain real-world experience, boost your <a rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://standout-cv.com/usa/student-resume-template" target="_blank">resume</a>, and strengthen your skill set. Below, you’ll find advice on how to make the best of your summer internship and leave a lasting impression on the employer.</p> <p class="Body"><strong>1. Set clear goals</strong> </p> <p class="Body">You may already have some targets or goals set for you by your supervisor. If so, these are a great place to start. In addition, it’s a good idea to set your own goals for your internship, thinking about what you’d like to learn and achieve during your time in the position. If you can relate these to your future career aspirations, even better.</p> <p class="Body">When setting your goals, be sure that they’re always specific, measurable, achievable, relevant, and time-bound. You can then refer to them at the end of your internship to determine if you accomplished them.</p> <p class="Body"><strong>2. Seek out opportunities </strong></p> <p class="Body">It’s not enough to simply show up and sit around waiting to be told what to do, particularly as there can be quiet moments during your internship. Instead, you need to be as proactive as possible. So, if you find yourself with a bit of downtime or if things are a bit slow one day, let your supervisor know and make some suggestions for tasks you could undertake or ask to do some shadowing.</p> <p class="Body">For example, if you’re waiting to undertake your next project, you could spend some time doing research, reading trade magazines, or offering to reorganize the store cupboard. Alternatively, if everyone is in a meeting and you’re waiting to be given a task, ask if you can sit in and listen or shadow someone else in the business to grow your knowledge.</p> <p class="Body">It’s also important to be inquisitive and ask questions to boost your knowledge. This will show you're genuinely interested and possibly open you up to new opportunities.</p> <p class="Body"><strong>3. Demonstrate your work ethic</strong> </p> <p class="Body">It’s vital that you can prove to your employer that you’ve got a strong work ethic and that you don’t shy away from any task given to you. As mentioned, it’s good to ask questions to develop your knowledge; it’s also a good idea to take notes when the opportunity presents itself. By always seeking out new opportunities and getting involved in every project or task, no matter how big or small, you can show that you’re a keen and hard worker.</p> <p class="Body">You should also seek feedback from your supervisor or reports wherever possible. Constructive feedback is a great way for you to improve your skills and recognize if there are any specific areas you need to focus on. Plus, it once again proves that you’re dedicated to the position and doing the best job you possibly can.</p> <p class="Body"><strong>4. Get to know your colleagues</strong></p> <p class="Body">During your internship, you should make the effort to introduce yourself to as many people as possible and to get to know your colleagues. During breaks or downtime, don’t just sit on your phone or wander off into town by yourself. Stay and chat for a while; this shows that you’re friendly, approachable, and eager to learn. If you can foster some of these relationships after your internship, even better. Getting to know colleagues is also a perfect way to grow your professional network and potentially open yourself up to opportunities in the future.</p> <p class="Body"><strong>5. Stay positive</strong></p> <p class="Body">Finally, it’s important that you approach every day and every task with a positive attitude. Even if you think an assignment is a little tedious or not quite what you expected to be doing, you still need to approach it with enthusiasm. Always listen attentively, be friendly with your colleagues, and get actively involved. An enthusiastic attitude is contagious, and you want everyone to remember you for the right reasons—for being positive, involved, and skilled.</p> <p style="margin: 12.0pt 0in 12.0pt 0in;"><em>Andrew Fennell is the founder and director of </em><a rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://standout-cv.com/" target="_blank"><em>StandOut CV</em></a><em>, a leading CV builder and careers advice website. He is a former recruitment consultant and contributes careers advice to publications like Business Insider, The Guardian, and The Independent.</em></p></content>
<dc:creator>
<![CDATA[ Andrew Fennell ]]>
</dc:creator>
<guid nid="277789">https://firsthand.co/blogs/internships/5-tips-for-a-successful-summer-internship-experience</guid>
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<title>
<![CDATA[ How to Negotiate a Better Severance Package ]]>
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<description>
<![CDATA[ If you think you might be facing a layoff soon, you can take comfort in knowing there are several things you can do to negotiate a solid severance offer. ]]>
</description>
<link>https://firsthand.co/blogs/changing-jobs/how-to-negotiate-a-better-severance-package</link>
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<category>
<![CDATA[ Workplace Issues ]]>
</category>
<category>
<![CDATA[ Changing Jobs ]]>
</category>
<category>
<![CDATA[ Job Search ]]>
</category>
<pubDate>Tue, 27 Jun 2023 00:00:00 GMT</pubDate>
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<content><p>If you think you might be facing a layoff soon, you can take comfort in knowing that there are several things you can do to strengthen your ability to negotiate a solid severance offer. Below is everything you need to know to negotiate a better severance package, along with common mistakes to avoid.</p> <p><strong>Think beyond money</strong></p> <p>The first thing to know is that a severance agreement is a contract. Don’t sign anything until you take the necessary time to consider the offer since signing an agreement means giving up certain rights. Second, do a bit of soul searching to pinpoint what matters most as you manage a potential life change. Third, make sure to consider all the below services as you negotiate an offer that’s right for you.</p> <p><em>Reemployment services</em></p> <p>If your goal is to find another position, consider asking the company to pay for assistance that may include a career coach, membership fees for a networking group, or a subscription to a job listing site that provides qualified job leads. </p> <p><em>Vesting options</em></p> <p>If your 401(k), 403(b), or other pension plan isn’t fully vested, ask your employer to pay the difference in balances or request to delay termination until after the account vests. If you participated in an employee stock option plan and you’re close to vesting, ask your employer to accelerate the vesting period so there is an opportunity to exercise the options or even sell the options back to the company.</p> <p><em>Exit message and references</em></p> <p>Ask your employer to agree on a stated message that explains the reason behind your departure since it will likely come up in future interviews. Ask your employer to agree on who provides a reference when future employers reach out and what can be shared over the phone; this can be important if there was an ongoing disagreement with a supervisor.</p> <p><em>Bonuses, PTO, and perks</em></p> <p>If a performance bonus was on the near-term horizon, make sure it is included in the lump sum. Check rules in your state pertaining to vacation and sick days, as some require payout at termination while others do not. If you had perks that you don’t want to lose, like a gym membership, ask for that perk to be extended.</p> <p><em>Insurance</em></p> <p>If your company has more than 20 employees and a group health insurance plan, they’re required by law to offer continuation of coverage through COBRA, which lets you continue your health insurance benefits for a certain amount of time after your employment ends. If you’re no longer at work due to a disability, make sure you review the severance agreement closely as many contracts include broad language that eliminate future rights to disability benefits. If the general release contains language waiving Employee Retirement Income Security Act (ERISA) claims, you’ll want to negotiate inclusion of that language or consult a lawyer to get additional help in this area.</p> <p><strong>Don’t skip the clauses</strong></p> <p>Before you sign, read the contract very carefully or hire a <a rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://www.justanswer.com/law/" target="_blank">legal expert</a> who can help you through the legalese. One area you might be tempted to skip are the clauses within the contract. Read them carefully as they could impact your rights. Below are seven clauses to watch out for.</p> <p><em>General release of claims</em></p> <p>The release of claims includes the body of your severance offer and releases one or both parties from future liability. By signing the agreement, you waive your right to pursue legal claims against your employer for wrongful termination, defamation, harassment, discrimination, unpaid wages and the like.</p> <p><em>Non-competition clause</em></p> <p>This clause limits where you can work after you leave the employer, although in many states the limitations must be considered “reasonable” to be enforceable. The clause may prohibit you from working in a similar role or starting your own business within a geographical area for a certain amount of time. Check rules and court decisions in your state to determine enforceability.</p> <p><em>Non-solicitation clause</em></p> <p>This prohibits you from taking clients or employees with you from your current employer. In other words, you can’t bring over clients or use contacts from your current employer to help you in a new position. This clause may require additional thought as you might stand to gain more if you choose not to accept these terms.</p> <p><em>Non-disparagement clause</em></p> <p>If accepted, you may be limited regarding negative comments about your current employer or its products in any form of communication. On March 22, 2023, the National Labor Relations Board (NLRB)’s General Counsel issued <a rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://www.nlrb.gov/news-outreach/news-story/nlrb-general-counsel-issues-memo-with-guidance-to-regions-on-severance" target="_blank">guidance </a>on a recent NLRB  decision explaining that it’s permissible to restrict employee statements that are “maliciously untrue, such that they are made with knowledge of their falsity or with reckless disregard for their truth or falsity.” Reach out to a legal expert if this clause appears in your offer, as decisions about this by the NLRB are in a state of flux in 2023.</p> <p><em>Confidentiality agreement</em></p> <p>The GC Memo mentioned above also addressed confidentiality agreements; confidentiality clauses addressing proprietary or trade secret information are permissible (limited by time and business reasons); confidentiality of financial terms of the agreement is also permissible. Like the non-disparagement clause, reach out to a legal expert if this clause appears in your offer.</p> <p><em>Payment schedule</em></p> <p>A lump sum payment may be a quick way to get money, but it may bump you to the next tax bracket; weekly or monthly payments may prevent you from qualifying for unemployment benefits.</p> <p><em>Special considerations for those over 40</em></p> <p>Employers must adhere to the Age Discrimination in Employment Act (ADEA) if you’re over 40. The ADEA gives you 21 days to make your decision and seven days to change your mind after signing an offer.</p> <p><strong>A final note</strong></p> <p>If the thought of negotiating a severance agreement seems overwhelming, take a deep breath and enlist legal help to provide extra guidance if needed. Otherwise, do your best to stay level-headed and professional as you work with your employer to agree on an offer that works for both sides.</p> <p><em>Merry A. Kogut is a licensed attorney based in Washington State who has been a legal expert on </em><a rel="noopener noreferrer" href="http://www.justanswer.com" target="_blank"><em>JustAnswer</em></a><em> since 2008 specializing in employment law, consumer protection, and discrimination issues. She has also been an attorney since 1986, and brings nearly 50 years combined legal and professional writing experience. Earlier in her career, Merry served as a law clerk for the Washington State Court of Appeals, and as a discrimination specialist, investigator, and legislative liaison. She also helped establish the “Legal Writing Institute,” a national association of legal writing instructors and administrators. Merry earned her law degree from the Seattle University School of Law (formerly University of Puget Sound).</em></p></content>
<dc:creator>
<![CDATA[ Merry A. Kogut ]]>
</dc:creator>
<guid nid="277787">https://firsthand.co/blogs/changing-jobs/how-to-negotiate-a-better-severance-package</guid>
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<title>
<![CDATA[ Top Tips for On Campus Interviewing ]]>
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<description>
<![CDATA[ In this sponsored post from Paul Hastings, learn some of their top tips for navigating OCI later this summer. ]]>
</description>
<link>https://firsthand.co/blogs/vaults-law-blog-legal-careers-and-industry-news/top-tips-for-on-campus-interviewing</link>
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<category>
<![CDATA[ Education ]]>
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<category>
<![CDATA[ Grad School ]]>
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<category>
<![CDATA[ Law ]]>
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<category>
<![CDATA[ Employer Posts ]]>
</category>
<category>
<![CDATA[ Job Search ]]>
</category>
<pubDate>Mon, 26 Jun 2023 00:00:00 GMT</pubDate>
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<content><p>Summer is here – and with it comes OCI season. If you’re a rising 2L, you may be looking ahead to the recruiting season and wondering how to navigate your way through all the activity and competing options. We thought it would be useful to set out some of the questions we are often asked, to try to take some mystery out of the process and empower you to deliver your best interview performance when it counts.</p> <p><u>I always hear that great first impressions are crucial – but how do I do that? </u></p> <p>The most effective way to make a great first impression is to stay organized, upbeat and energized. Your schedule during OCI will be busy – it’s busy for interviewers too – and it’s important to find ways to be as positive during your last interview as you were during your first. Make sure you’re well-rested and that you do your prep work well in advance so that you’re not panicking at the last minute. Finally, it might sound basic, but smile and introduce yourself when your meeting starts (whether in person and online) – yes, they already know who you are, but a warm, confident greeting sets a great tone, and will go a long way in settling your own nerves.</p> <p><u>How do I make myself stand out from the crowd?</u></p> <p>The best way to stand out is to be prepared for your interview! Think about what is important to you, in terms of your legal training, your areas of interest, and your future career aspirations. Make sure you do some research on the firms with which you are interviewing – most firms highlight key information on their website. There’s no need to parrot that information at interview, but preparing in advance will allow you to use that background to inform your answers and show the interviewers that your interest in the firm is genuine. Showing your curiosity and your enthusiasm about the practice of law will go a long way to making people remember you.</p> <p><em>“For firms you are interested in, I recommend taking the time early to get to know the attorneys to the best of your ability. Reaching out to schedule a phone or zoom call with an attorney allows you learn about their work, the firm overall, and ultimately decide whether it is a good fit for you. It’s also a great way to learn more about what qualities and characteristics would make a candidate a great fit for the firm which can help you in future conversations.”</em> – Paul Hastings Summer Associate</p> <p><u>Are there standard interview questions I can prepare for?</u></p> <p>Every interview (and interviewer!) is different, but there are some topics that you can and should think about in advance. The interviewers will be trying to get to know you in a very short space of time during OCI, so their questions will be designed to get an idea of you and your potential as quickly as possible. Be prepared to answer some big picture questions, such as, “Tell me about yourself,” “Why do you want to be a lawyer?” and “Why are you interested in our firm?” or variations on those areas. If you have thought about those in advance, it will make it easier for you to think on your feet in response to new questions. Also, make sure that you are familiar with your own resumé – if there is anything on there that you want to make sure the interviewers remember about you, make sure it’s part of your responses!</p> <p><em>“Regardless of the student's path to law school, or their 1L summer job, a great interviewee can communicate effectively about the skills they have learned/acquired and how they will apply those skills as a summer associate at the firm.”</em> – Paul Hastings Associate</p> <p><u>Am I allowed to ask questions too?</u></p> <p>Of course! Interviewers (particularly once you get to callbacks) will ensure that there is plenty of time for your questions and it’s a good idea to have some questions ready so you are not caught out. Think about what you want to know about the firm and about your future career there. If there is a particular practice area you are interested in, you could ask about those opportunities. You could ask questions about pro bono opportunities. You could focus your questions on learning more about the culture of a firm – why did your interviewer join the firm, and what keeps them there? What was your interviewer’s OCI and summer experience, and do they have any advice? You might have questions arising from the interview itself, but having some others ready is always a good idea.</p> <p><u>How do I prepare for an online interview? Is it different?</u></p> <p>For online interviews, the process and the content will be much the same, but you need to make sure that you treat it as seriously and as formally as you would an in-person interview. Make sure you dress appropriately and that you find a quiet location conducive for a meeting, even for a casual call. If you can, prepare the space a little – make sure there’s no distracting background, elevate your laptop so the camera is at eye level and ideally ensure there is natural light behind the camera (facing you). If none of that is available, no problem – just make sure you have peace and quiet and that you give your conversation your undivided attention.</p> <p><u>Are there any common mistakes you see from candidates?</u></p> <p>The only thing we would highlight is that some candidates are (understandably) so focused on their own interviews and future career that they can forget there are other people involved in the process! We want you to have the best possible experience of OCI and callbacks, but every firm is handling processes at multiple law schools, and that can sometimes create challenges. It helps us a lot when students are considerate and communicative, so try to keep recruiting teams informed about your availability, be patient with busy schedules, and respond quickly when callbacks are being booked in.</p> <p><em>“Interview season is a busy time for all - recruiting staff, attorneys, and especially, law students! Communication is key. It’s always helpful to keep the recruiting professionals updated on your interviewing timelines and offer deadlines. Don’t be afraid to ask questions or for follow up visits. If you’re no longer interested in the firm, let us know, so we can spend more time with your classmates and colleagues – we promise, we won’t be offended! If you’re comfortable sharing the names of the firms you are interviewing with, it can help us get a better sense of who we should connect you with to learn more. Ultimately, we want you to find the right fit for you and we’ll do what we can to help make that happen!”</em> – Paul Hastings Recruiting Professional</p> <p><u>If there is one piece of advice you would offer, what would it be?</u></p> <p>Be yourself! This is your opportunity to find the firm where you think you could spend a large part of your career – being yourself at interview is a great start to that process. You can learn a lot in every interview from not just what is being said but how it’s said. It’s important to figure out if you will have the work opportunities you are looking for, but also if this will be a working environment that will be a good fit for you personally - are these the people you can see yourself working with and learning from?</p> <p>We hope that these tips can help you feel prepared and calm ahead of the busy recruiting season. We wish you great success in securing the summer associate position that you are looking for!</p></content>
<dc:creator>
<![CDATA[ Paul Hastings LLP ]]>
</dc:creator>
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<![CDATA[ How Long Should Your Resume Be? ]]>
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<![CDATA[ The length of your resume can play a role in whether you're considered for a job or not. Here are some ways to keep it concise and informative. ]]>
</description>
<link>https://firsthand.co/blogs/resumes-cover-letters/how-long-should-your-resume-be</link>
<guid isPermaLink="true">https://firsthand.co/blogs/resumes-cover-letters/how-long-should-your-resume-be</guid>
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<![CDATA[ Resumes & Cover Letters ]]>
</category>
<pubDate>Fri, 23 Jun 2023 00:00:00 GMT</pubDate>
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<content><p>Your resume is the most important tool you have in your job-seeking arsenal. It gives potential employers a detailed look at your education, work history, skills, and achievements. In certain cases, your resume might also include additional information about any relevant hobbies and interests, or professional affiliations. A solid resume will greatly increase your chances at landing a job, but what happens if your resume is too long? Today we’re going to talk about the length of your resume, as well as some tips to help you keep it clear and concise. Let’s get started.</p> <p>Typically, a resume should be about one page long. This is especially true if you’re a student looking for an internship, a new graduate or first-time job seeker, or a professional with less than ten years of experience. It’s important to remember that a hiring manager will often have to review many resumes in a short period of time, which means they’ll scan each resume quickly, looking for key words and phrases, or things that stand out. In fact, most hiring mangers won’t glance at a resume for much longer than ten seconds, and that’s being generous. If your resume is multiple pages or takes too long to get into the important details, it’s very likely that you won’t be considered for the position.</p> <p>Most resumes use bullet points to describe any tasks or accomplishments associated with previous and current jobs. In order for your resume to be an acceptable length, use between 3 and 7 bullet points for each entry. Let’s say you’re a recent graduate and you’ve got one internship and no work experience. In this case, use 7 bullet points and include each and every task and accomplishment you can think of.</p> <p>On the other hand, if you have several previous employers you might want to prioritize only the most important tasks and best accomplishments per entry. For example, your most recent job might have 5 bullet points, while your first job (the last one on your resume) might have 3. If your early work history is less relevant to the position you’re applying for, you can either keep it very brief, or omit it all together in order to achieve a good resume length.</p> <p>Take some time to review each bullet point and refine them to include quantifiable information whenever possible. In other words, if one of your accomplishments led to an increase in sales, that’s an excellent bullet point to include. The more quantifiable examples you have the better off you’ll be, and when you start thinking of your resume this way, you’ll be able to eliminate less important or otherwise irrelevant bullet points.</p> <p>Another thing to consider when trimming down your resume is the length of each bullet point. A good rule of thumb is that each bullet point should be around two lines maximum. It’s best to avoid unnecessary words and phrases such as “responsible for” or “managed,” as they’re either implied or somewhat on the weak side. For example, instead of saying you managed something, say you <em>directed</em> it. Remember, the hiring manager will only be scanning your resume for things that jump out at them, so having well-written, concise bullet points is incredibly important.</p> <p>If you’ve looked at a lot of job descriptions you might have noticed that most of them require candidates to possess around 3 to 5 years of experience, unless it’s a role in upper management. If you’ve got a lot of experience, you can easily omit any entries that are more than 10 to 15 years old. For most jobs, a work history of 10 years is more than enough to demonstrate the skills and experience necessary for the position.</p> <p>There are certain scenarios where a two-page resume is acceptable. One is if you’re a high-level candidate with many years of relevant experience and even then, having more than one page might be a turn off for some potential employers. An engineering resume is typically longer than one page because candidates often include a special section that provides great detail about their previous projects. If you’re absolutely unable to trim your resume down to one page, you might get away with a longer resume if it contains a lot of relevant, well-written, quantifiable information.</p> <p>With everything being said, your resume shouldn’t be more than one page in almost every scenario. It might take a little experimentation, but you should seek to include only tasks and accomplishments that are relevant to the job description, while omitting any unnecessary information and old or otherwise irrelevant job experience. It’s worth putting a lot of effort into your resume, always taking the time to tailor it to each job you apply for. A strong, concise resume is sure to grab the hiring manager’s attention.</p></content>
<dc:creator>
<![CDATA[ Rob Porter ]]>
</dc:creator>
<guid nid="277745">https://firsthand.co/blogs/resumes-cover-letters/how-long-should-your-resume-be</guid>
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<title>
<![CDATA[ How to Adapt Your Career to Survive the AI Revolution ]]>
</title>
<description>
<![CDATA[ Artificial intelligence is evolving quickly. Here are three crucial actions you can take today to help you prepare for an AI-driven future. ]]>
</description>
<link>https://firsthand.co/blogs/innovate-with-influence-global-high-tech/how-to-adapt-your-career-to-survive-the-ai-revolution</link>
<guid isPermaLink="true">https://firsthand.co/blogs/innovate-with-influence-global-high-tech/how-to-adapt-your-career-to-survive-the-ai-revolution</guid>
<category>
<![CDATA[ Networking ]]>
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<category>
<![CDATA[ Technology ]]>
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<category>
<![CDATA[ Career Readiness ]]>
</category>
<pubDate>Thu, 22 Jun 2023 00:00:00 GMT</pubDate>
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<content><p>AI’s fast growth has been causing a lot of excitement and a lot of anxiety. Some people are encouraged by AI’s advances, while others are worried. Questions like "Will robots take our jobs?" and "How should we prepare for the future?" are swirling around many people’s minds these days. Which is completely understandable, since we’re all in a new situation when it comes to AI.</p> <p>Undoubtedly, AI is shaping the future of work, changing many professions, even changing positions we once thought were untouchable. Jobs that involve monotonous, repetitive tasks are most likely to be automated because <a rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://www.kajetandomagala.com/best-ai-tools/" target="_blank">AI tools</a> are excellent at such tasks. But it's not just these repetitive roles. Even professions requiring specialized skills or human touch aren't entirely safe. Today, AI assists doctors in diagnosing diseases more accurately and helps lawyers analyze legal documents more efficiently.</p> <p>While this transformation may sound intimidating, it's crucial to understand that AI's rise doesn't mean the end of human employment. Instead, AI can be used as a helpful tool rather than a replacement. Also, AI growth means creating new job roles we never thought we'd need, like AI Prompt Engineers or AI Ethicists. So, while AI will undoubtedly influence our professions, it's not solely a threat. It's an opportunity for humans to leverage new technology, boost our efficiency, and create remarkable things.</p> <p>Below are three crucial actions that you can take to help you prepare for an AI-driven world.</p> <p><strong>1. Embrace your uniqueness</strong></p> <p>It’s important to remember that you are unique. AI might be excellent at analyzing data and recognizing patterns quickly and efficiently. But it will never possess the individual human experience or personal perspective. Specific human skills, such as creativity, problem-solving, and decision-making, will always remain valuable and can be applied to every profession. AI can provide us with facts and figures, but it's ultimately up to us to make sense of it all and make informed decisions. So, embrace being human, mix it up with some artificial intelligence know-how, and you'll stay ahead in the AI game.</p> <p><strong>2. Keep learning about AI</strong> </p> <p>You know the adage about how <em>you learn something new every day</em>? In an AI-driven world, that's not just a saying, it's the rule. Artificial intelligence is moving fast, so keeping up means learning new skills and staying on top of trends to keep up. Of course, that doesn't mean you need to return to school and get another degree. Instead, it involves being open to change, willing to experiment, and adaptable. It also means it’s a good idea to learn the basics of AI and explore how it can assist in your work. Improving your skills and learning new ones can also help. This will increase your market value and boost your confidence in performing your job.</p> <p><strong>3. Build your network</strong> </p> <p>Last but not least, it's important to connect with other professionals in your industry. It's not just about connecting on social media; it's about building relationships to help you learn, grow, and spot new opportunities. Consider joining online forums, social media groups, or various community platforms. These are excellent spots to meet like-minded people, engage in discussions, and stay informed about the latest trends in your industry. If you're up for it, you can also attend conferences or webinars, whether online or in person.</p> <p>Networking is an invaluable tool for learning and helping others. By sharing your knowledge and insights, offering feedback, and building solid relationships, you’ll set yourself up for success in the era of AI.</p> <p><em>Kajetan Domagała, the founder of </em><em><a rel="noopener noreferrer" href="http://kajetandomagala.com/" target="_blank">kajetandomagala.com</a>, delves deeply into the fascinating world of AI, technology, and programming while navigating various other technical topics. He aims to inspire and empower his audience by delivering compelling and informative content through his articles.</em></p></content>
<dc:creator>
<![CDATA[ Kajetan Domagała ]]>
</dc:creator>
<guid nid="277739">https://firsthand.co/blogs/innovate-with-influence-global-high-tech/how-to-adapt-your-career-to-survive-the-ai-revolution</guid>
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<title>
<![CDATA[ Tips for an Intellectual Property Job Search ]]>
</title>
<description>
<![CDATA[ In this sponsored post from Finnegan, learn some insider tips on how to maximize your success in a search for work in the lucrative IP sector. ]]>
</description>
<link>https://firsthand.co/blogs/vaults-law-blog-legal-careers-and-industry-news/tips-for-an-intellectual-property-job-search</link>
<guid isPermaLink="true">https://firsthand.co/blogs/vaults-law-blog-legal-careers-and-industry-news/tips-for-an-intellectual-property-job-search</guid>
<category>
<![CDATA[ Job Search ]]>
</category>
<category>
<![CDATA[ Education ]]>
</category>
<category>
<![CDATA[ Grad School ]]>
</category>
<category>
<![CDATA[ Law ]]>
</category>
<category>
<![CDATA[ Employer Posts ]]>
</category>
<pubDate>Wed, 21 Jun 2023 00:00:00 GMT</pubDate>
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<content><p><strong>Research what IP attorneys do.</strong>  If you want to be an IP attorney, you should know what they do every day.  Do some research and see how this career aligns with your interests.  If you are already attending a law school, use the resources that your school provides – take IP-related classes, participate in IP-related clinics, and talk to your IP professors and alumni who practice IP law.  If you are not yet in law school, you can still reach out to IP professionals to scope things out and look for other opportunities to educate yourself.  For example, Finnegan has a fantastic four-week online program—the Finnegan IP University—which is geared towards individuals in science and engineering fields and provides the nuts and bolts of the U.S. patent system.  Check it out here: <a href="https://www.finnegan.com/en/finnegan-ip-university.html" target="_blank">https://www.finnegan.com/en/Finnegan-IP-University.html</a>. </p> <p><strong>Update your Resume.</strong>  Your resume is one of the most important parts of your job search process.  It is your first foot forward and should encapsulate all the reasons you are right for the job.  Based on the information on your resume, firms made initial decision on whether to invite you for an interview.  Then, before your interview, the interviewing attorneys will review your resume closely and outline questions to ask you.  Thus, make sure to spend plenty of time to ensure your resume accurately represents yourself and your skills.  Include relevant experiences and background with specific examples, but do not throw in everything you did during your life.  For example, interviewers probably do not want to hear about your dog’s name… unless he was the basis for your research into potentially patenting a new agility training toy.  Keeping it short is always a good rule of thumb.  But don’t sacrifice content in pursuit of a one-page resume—firms will not throw it out just because your list of relevant experiences or publications goes onto a second page. Lastly, during your interview, you could be asked a question on any topic on your resume, so be prepared to discuss its contents in detail and with enthusiasm. </p> <p><strong>Use on-campus interviews and career fairs.</strong>  Use career services and other resources at your school to identify interview opportunities.  Apply for on-campus interviews as early as you can using the stellar resume that you prepared.  And since you have a specific practice area goal—IP law—do not hesitate to participate in career fairs and job events outside of your school.  There are many career fairs for law students who want to practice IP law after graduating.  For example, if you are interested in patent law, the Loyola Patent Law Interview Program in Chicago is a great opportunity to meet many employers (law firms and IP departments from companies) at one place.  For more information, visit <a href="https://www.luc.edu/law/currentstudents/careerservices/patentprogram/" target="_blank">https://www.luc.edu/law/currentstudents/careerservices/patentprogram/</a>.  The career services at your law school should be able to provide you a full list of relevant events.  Also, don’t forget to check out the career information websites of law firms you are interested in.  Many law firms provide a way for law students to directly submit a resume.</p> <p><strong>Prepare for your interview.  </strong>Once you get an interview scheduled for your dream job, it is research time again!  When you are buying a car, you spend time to research the car and the manufacturer of the car, check out the car magazines for the reviews of the car, and read discussions on the Internet forum for the current users of the same car.  Do the same here.  The firm profile on the Vault Law is always a good starting point.  It gives you lots of information about the firm, such as the firm statistics (number of attorneys, number of summer associates, salary information, etc.), the office locations, the practice areas, etc.  Check out the firm’s website for additional information so you understand the firm’s key practice areas, major clients, and recent notable cases.  Look up your interviewing attorneys’ bios so that you can ask specific questions about their practices and recent experience.  This may look something like “I noticed that you have represented many pharmaceutical companies. What do you find most interesting in your work for them?”  Ask genuine questions that interest you—while the firm is interviewing you, you are also interviewing the firm, so it’s important that you get a full picture of what your career in that firm would be like.    </p> <p><strong>Send a thank-you note.  </strong>After the interview, follow up with the interviewers.  A short thank-you email is always a nice gesture reiterating your interest in the firm.  It may feel like a formality, but it is always appreciated.  It also helps the interviewers recall particular discussions from your interview that may differentiate you from other candidates. </p> <p>IP law is fun!  You have made a great decision to pursue one of the coolest careers in the world.  Good luck and we hope to see you soon in a future interview!</p></content>
<dc:creator>
<![CDATA[ Finnegan ]]>
</dc:creator>
<guid nid="277738">https://firsthand.co/blogs/vaults-law-blog-legal-careers-and-industry-news/tips-for-an-intellectual-property-job-search</guid>
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<title>
<![CDATA[ 5 Keys to Success That an IB Analyst and Associate Learned Together ]]>
</title>
<description>
<![CDATA[ Susie Choi and Sam Johnson have worked together on many deals out of Harris Williams’ San Francisco office. Here, they share advice they’ve learned together. ]]>
</description>
<link>https://firsthand.co/blogs/employer-posts/5-keys-to-success-that-an-ib-analyst-and-associate-learned-together</link>
<guid isPermaLink="true">https://firsthand.co/blogs/employer-posts/5-keys-to-success-that-an-ib-analyst-and-associate-learned-together</guid>
<category>
<![CDATA[ Employer Posts ]]>
</category>
<category>
<![CDATA[ Job Search ]]>
</category>
<category>
<![CDATA[ Finance ]]>
</category>
<pubDate>Wed, 21 Jun 2023 00:00:00 GMT</pubDate>
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<content><p>Susie Choi and Sam Johnson are part of the Consumer Group at <a href="https://firsthand.co/company-profiles/commercial-banking-and-investment-banking/harris-williams" target="_blank">Harris Williams</a>, an investment bank specializing in M&A advisory services. Susie is an associate; Sam is an analyst. The two have worked closely together on multiple deals out of the firm’s San Francisco office. Below, they share some advice they’ve learned on the job together that’s been key to their collective success.</p> <p><strong>1. Anticipating the needs of senior bankers and clients makes everyone’s life easier.</strong></p> <p><em>Sam:</em> Susie and I are constantly talking through the best ways to present information, work efficiently, and provide quality work. Doing so varies from manager to manager and client to client. You have to be agile.</p> <p><em>Susie:</em> We imagine what the senior bankers on our team need to achieve the best outcome for our client, then we figure out how we can help them get there. Taking on as much responsibility as possible throughout a deal process helps your career as well as your senior team. It helps that we have daily access to senior leadership at Harris Williams.</p> <p><strong>2. Making your voice heard ensures that clients see the value you’re adding and helps you build effective client relationships.</strong></p> <p><em>Sam:</em> The senior bankers on our teams are incredibly supportive of giving us airtime with the leaders of the companies we advise. I’ve learned so much through client interactions and senior team mentorship along the way.</p> <p><em>Susie:</em> We are given the agency to have both our voices heard on calls with management teams. From large diligence calls to smaller workstream focused meetings, we build relationships with our clients, and they see the value in our work.</p> <p><strong>3. Mastering basic workstreams is key to unlocking opportunities beyond your level.</strong></p> <p><em>Sam:</em> We’re in charge of key workstreams that contribute to the pitch, projection model, CIM, management presentation, data pack, and the analysis behind buyer requests. All these materials are crucial to a successful transaction.</p> <p><em>Susie:</em> Completing these workstreams efficiently is important for your career growth. Once you master them, you progress from taking directions toward leading deal activities.  </p> <p><strong>4. Making a conscious effort to understand your teammates’ work preferences should be the first step in every new deal.</strong></p> <p><em>Sam:</em> Often, we make assumptions about how other people want to communicate or get work done. It’s important to avoid these assumptions by asking simple questions early on. For example: “How do you like to receive feedback?” or “How can we both utilize our strengths to help maximize efficiency in this workstream?”</p> <p><em>Susie:</em> I’m a big fan of putting pen to paper. I like to write out ideas and lists, but I know this might not be the best way for a teammate to consume my thoughts. Finding ways to adjust is important to ensure clear communication. Just ask what people prefer—they’ll appreciate the initiative.</p> <p><strong>5. Dedicating time to building a real relationship with your fellow analyst/associate will make your work better.</strong></p> <p><em>Sam:</em> Developing a friendly relationship outside of work and understanding each other’s lives, interests, and priorities allows us to be the best teammates. We can effectively cover for each other, provide flexibility, and try to make each other’s lives easier because we’re close friends and value and respect each other’s time.</p> <p><em>Susie:</em> We’re lucky that this collaborative mindset is the standard throughout Harris Williams. People think of you as a person first, banker second. It makes our work better and more creative. Plus, it’s more enjoyable.</p> <p><em><a rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://www.harriswilliams.com/careers" target="_blank">Learn more about life at Harris Williams.</a></em></p> <p><em>This post was sponsored by Harris Williams.</em></p></content>
<dc:creator>
<![CDATA[ Vault-Firsthand ]]>
</dc:creator>
<guid nid="277735">https://firsthand.co/blogs/employer-posts/5-keys-to-success-that-an-ib-analyst-and-associate-learned-together</guid>
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<title>
<![CDATA[ Things You Shouldn’t Say on Your Job Interview ]]>
</title>
<description>
<![CDATA[ During a job interview you’ll have opportunities to talk about yourself and your work history. Here are some things you should never say. ]]>
</description>
<link>https://firsthand.co/blogs/interviewing/things-you-shouldn-t-say-on-your-job-interview</link>
<guid isPermaLink="true">https://firsthand.co/blogs/interviewing/things-you-shouldn-t-say-on-your-job-interview</guid>
<category>
<![CDATA[ Interviewing ]]>
</category>
<pubDate>Wed, 21 Jun 2023 00:00:00 GMT</pubDate>
<enclosure url="https://media2.vault.com/14348684/blog149image.jpg" length="0" type="image/jpeg"/>
<content><p>During a job interview you’ll be given the chance to learn any additional information when the interviewer inevitably asks “Do you have any questions for me?” Along with this, there will be opportunities for you to talk about your strengths and weaknesses, as well as other aspects of yourself and your work history. Today we’re going to talk about some things you should never say while on a job interview. Let’s begin.</p> <p><strong>“Tell me about the company.”</strong></p> <p>Kicking the list off is a <em>major</em> no-no. If you’ve read our previous advice on job search strategies, resume creation, and interview tactics, then you’d know we place special emphasis on researching each and every company you apply to. At the very least you should possess basic knowledge of the company and its offerings, which will get you through the interview, but you should take the time to go above and beyond.</p> <p>Learn as much as you can about the company you’re interviewing for. From its workplace culture all the way to any issues the company is currently facing, you should seek to learn it all. If the interviewer or hiring manager get the impression that you haven’t read up on the company at all, they’ll see you as being uninterested and perhaps even lazy—not a good look.</p> <p><strong>“I don’t have any questions.”</strong></p> <p>You might be going on multiple interviews and feeling serious fatigue, or maybe you feel like you’ve nailed a particular interview and there’s nothing else to add when the interviewer asks you if you have any questions. This is almost as bad as asking what the company does, as it will also demonstrate a lack of interest or drive to self-motivate.</p> <p>There might be a situation where you’ve already received an offer but you’re going on another interview because it was previously scheduled and you haven’t accepted the offer yet. Here, you should still try to ask at least one good question because even if you decide to accept the other offer, you never know where you’ll end up later on in your career. It’s always important to walk out of any interview having left a good impression, regardless of the circumstances.</p> <p><strong>“How long does it take for [company name] to give raises or promote its employees?”</strong></p> <p>At first glance this might seem like a great question to ask during an interview, since there’s potential that you’ll be working with the company in the near future; however, this is best left for later on when you’ve put some time and effort into your work. Asking this question during an interview might suggest that you don’t feel that the company’s initial offering is good enough, or that you don’t take the role seriously.</p> <p><strong>“My weaknesses are actually my strengths.”</strong></p> <p>Making this statement or other variations such as “I don’t have any weaknesses” during an interview is a great way to ruin your chances, which is precisely what we don’t want. This one might seem obvious, but inquiring about your weaknesses is actually a tactic used by interviewers to gauge how you’ll react. The bottom line is, you’ll want to come up with at least one good response to this question.</p> <p>Instead of declaring that you are entirely devoid of any weakness, think of some things you can honestly tell yourself you need to work on. This will show the interviewer that you’re self-aware, and that you strive to improve yourself and your work. The weaknesses question is one of those tricky interview questions, which we previously covered in a <a rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://firsthand.co/blogs/interviewing/how-to-answer-tricky-interview-questions-part-i" target="_blank">two-part</a> <a rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://firsthand.co/blogs/interviewing/how-to-answer-tricky-interview-questions-part-ii" target="_blank">blog</a>.</p> <p><strong>“I didn’t like my previous boss.”</strong></p> <p>You should never talk about any previous employer or boss in a negative way while on an interview. If you do, you’re showing the interviewer that you’re less inclined to work well with others, or that you lack the ability to engage with and solve conflicts. Furthermore, it’s just plain unprofessional and more times than not, the interviewer will assume that you were the source of the problem.</p> <p><strong>“I need to put in time off for [month/date].”</strong></p> <p>It’s very possible that you have a prior engagement coming up around the same time as you’d be expected to start work, but it’s important to remember that you’re only still on an interview and there’s no guarantee you’ll be hired for the position. Requesting time off or even simply mentioning you’ll need time off will show the interviewer that you’re not interested in learning the job or the company’s culture. This conversation is best left for after you’ve been hired.</p> <p>Lastly, it’s worth mentioning that you should never bring up your political or religious affiliations during an interview. It should go without saying, but any divisive or otherwise controversial topics can paint you in an unfavorable light depending on the interviewer’s own beliefs, or the company’s values. A good rule of thumb is to give very little personal information unless it directly relates to the job description, or if you’re absolutely sure it’s appropriate. Use your intuition—if you’re unsure about anything, it’s probably best to leave it out.</p></content>
<dc:creator>
<![CDATA[ Rob Porter ]]>
</dc:creator>
<guid nid="277717">https://firsthand.co/blogs/interviewing/things-you-shouldn-t-say-on-your-job-interview</guid>
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<title>
<![CDATA[ Announcing the 2024 Vault 100, Practice Area Prestige, and Regional Prestige Rankings ]]>
</title>
<description>
<![CDATA[ Announcing the 2024 Vault Law rankings for Top 100 Law Firms, Best Firms by Region, and Best Firms by Practice Area, based on Vault’s Annual Associate Survey. ]]>
</description>
<link>https://firsthand.co/blogs/vaults-law-blog-legal-careers-and-industry-news/announcing-the-2024-vault-100-practice-area-prestige-and-regional-prestige-rankings</link>
<guid isPermaLink="true">https://firsthand.co/blogs/vaults-law-blog-legal-careers-and-industry-news/announcing-the-2024-vault-100-practice-area-prestige-and-regional-prestige-rankings</guid>
<category>
<![CDATA[ Job Search ]]>
</category>
<category>
<![CDATA[ Education ]]>
</category>
<category>
<![CDATA[ Grad School ]]>
</category>
<category>
<![CDATA[ Law ]]>
</category>
<category>
<![CDATA[ General Articles ]]>
</category>
<pubDate>Wed, 21 Jun 2023 00:00:00 GMT</pubDate>
<enclosure url="https://media2.vault.com/14348177/vault-ranked-logo.jpg" length="0" type="image/jpeg"/>
<content><p><img style="width: 397px; height: 692px;" src="https://legacy.vault.com/media/14348695/top10-infographic-large-font.png?width=397&height=692" alt="" data-udi="umb://media/06fbbfe0091d419f923ecba98ea6ca36" /><br /><br />For the eighth year running, <a href="https://firsthand.co/company-profiles/law/cravath-swaine-moore-llp" target="_blank">Cravath, Swaine & Moore LLP</a> tops the <a href="https://firsthand.co/best-companies-to-work-for/law/top-100-law-firms-rankings" target="_blank">Vault 100</a> as the most prestigious firm in the United States. The firm also ranks in the top 5 of multiple practice groups, including the No. 1 spot in General Corporate Practice. “While other firms have stepped in as ‘first movers’ in recent compensation and hiring trends, Cravath’s influence on industry standards holds firm,” said Carter Isham, Senior Law Editor at Vault. Vault survey takers agree, noting that the firm is “the benchmark for pay scale” and “still the firm to beat.”</p> <p>Vault’s top 10 most prestigious firms for 2024 are:</p> <p>#1 <a href="https://firsthand.co/company-profiles/law/cravath-swaine-moore-llp" target="_blank">Cravath, Swaine & Moore LLP</a></p> <p>#2 <a href="https://firsthand.co/company-profiles/law/wachtell-lipton-rosen-katz" target="_blank">Wachtell, Lipton, Rosen & Katz</a></p> <p>#3 <a href="https://firsthand.co/company-profiles/law/skadden-arps-slate-meagher-flom-llp-and-affiliates" target="_blank">Skadden</a></p> <p>#4 <a href="https://firsthand.co/company-profiles/law/latham-watkins-llp" target="_blank">Latham & Watkins</a></p> <p>#5 <a href="https://firsthand.co/company-profiles/law/sullivan-cromwell-llp" target="_blank">Sullivan & Cromwell LLP</a></p> <p>#6 <a href="https://firsthand.co/company-profiles/law/davis-polk-wardwell" target="_blank">Davis Polk & Wardwell LLP</a></p> <p>#7 <a href="https://firsthand.co/company-profiles/law/kirkland-ellis" target="_blank">Kirkland & Ellis</a></p> <p>#8 <a href="https://firsthand.co/company-profiles/law/simpson-thacher-bartlett-llp" target="_blank">Simpson Thacher</a></p> <p>#9 <a href="https://firsthand.co/company-profiles/law/paul-weiss-rifkind-wharton-garrison-llp" target="_blank">Paul, Weiss, Rifkind, Wharton & Garrison LLP</a></p> <p>#10 <a href="https://firsthand.co/company-profiles/law/gibson-dunn-crutcher-llp" target="_blank">Gibson Dunn</a></p> <p>This is the tenth consecutive year to see Cravath, Wachtell Lipton, and Skadden in the top three spots and the sixth straight year with these 10 firms at the top of the Vault 100. This year saw some change in the middle of the top 10, with Latham and Sullivan & Cromwell moving back up one spot each to No. 4 and No. 5, respectively.</p> <p><a href="https://firsthand.co/best-companies-to-work-for/law/top-100-law-firms-rankings" target="_blank"><strong>The Vault 100</strong></a></p> <p>The prestige rankings of the Vault 100 are relatively “sticky,” though major market shifts can result in notable changes. “This year’s rankings saw some readjustment to gains made in the 2023 rankings as the rest of the market caught up with salary increases, as well as the impact of layoffs late last year,” said Isham. Three firms achieved substantial gains, with one cracking the top 100 for the first time. <a href="https://firsthand.co/company-profiles/law/holland-knight-llp" target="_blank">Holland & Knight LLP</a> climbed six spots to No. 52, enjoying positive momentum after merging with Thompson & Knight in 2021. <a href="https://firsthand.co/company-profiles/law/katten-muchin-rosenman-llp" target="_blank">Katten Muchin Rosenman LLP</a> rose six spots to No. 74, gaining ground in national prestige to match its reputation in Chicago (No. 10). <a href="https://firsthand.co/company-profiles/law/akerman-llp" target="_blank">Akerman LLP</a> broke into the Vault 100, coming in at No. 100, as well as moving up to the No. 3 spot in Florida.</p> <p><strong>Changes out West </strong></p> <p>In Northern California—a market strongly connected with the tech and ECVC industries—<a href="https://firsthand.co/company-profiles/law/morrison-foerster-llp" target="_blank">Morrison & Foerster LLP</a> reclaimed the No. 1 spot. Morrison Foerster held the No. 1 position for over 10 years, moving to No. 2 in 2022 and 2023. <a href="https://firsthand.co/company-profiles/law/perkins-coie-llp" target="_blank">Perkins Coie LLP</a> stepped into the No. 1 position in the Mountain States after holding the No. 3 spot from 2020 to 2022 and the No. 2 spot in 2023. There were no changes at the top in Vault’s remaining regional rankings.</p> <p>The No. 1 firm in each region is:</p> <p><a href="https://firsthand.co/best-companies-to-work-for/law/best-law-firms-in-each-us-region/atlanta" target="_blank">Atlanta</a>: King & Spalding LLP</p> <p><a href="https://firsthand.co/best-companies-to-work-for/law/best-law-firms-in-each-us-region/boston" target="_blank">Boston</a>: Ropes & Gray LLP</p> <p><a href="https://firsthand.co/best-companies-to-work-for/law/best-law-firms-in-each-us-region/chicago" target="_blank">Chicago</a>: Kirkland & Ellis</p> <p><a href="https://firsthand.co/best-companies-to-work-for/law/best-law-firms-in-each-us-region/florida" target="_blank">Florida</a>: Holland & Knight LLP</p> <p><a href="https://firsthand.co/best-companies-to-work-for/law/best-law-firms-in-each-us-region/mid-atlantic" target="_blank">Mid-Atlantic</a>: Skadden</p> <p><a href="https://firsthand.co/best-companies-to-work-for/law/best-law-firms-in-each-us-region/midwest" target="_blank">Midwest</a>: Kirkland & Ellis</p> <p><a href="https://firsthand.co/best-companies-to-work-for/law/best-law-firms-in-each-us-region/mountain-states" target="_blank">Mountain States</a>: Perkins Coie LLP</p> <p><a href="https://firsthand.co/best-companies-to-work-for/law/best-law-firms-in-each-us-region/new-york" target="_blank">New York</a>: Cravath</p> <p><a href="https://firsthand.co/best-companies-to-work-for/law/best-law-firms-in-each-us-region/northern-california" target="_blank">Northern California</a>: Morrison & Foerster LLP</p> <p><a href="https://firsthand.co/best-companies-to-work-for/law/best-law-firms-in-each-us-region/pacific-northwest" target="_blank">Pacific Northwest</a>: Perkins Coie LLP</p> <p><a href="https://firsthand.co/best-companies-to-work-for/law/best-law-firms-in-each-us-region/southern-california" target="_blank">Southern California</a>: Latham & Watkins</p> <p><a href="https://firsthand.co/best-companies-to-work-for/law/best-law-firms-in-each-us-region/south-atlantic" target="_blank">South Atlantic</a>: Alston & Bird LLP</p> <p><a href="https://firsthand.co/best-companies-to-work-for/law/best-law-firms-in-each-us-region/texas" target="_blank">Texas</a>: Vinson & Elkins LLP</p> <p><a href="https://firsthand.co/best-companies-to-work-for/law/best-law-firms-in-each-us-region/washington-dc" target="_blank">Washington, DC</a>: Covington & Burling LLP</p> <p><strong>A New Victor in </strong><strong>Appellate Litigation </strong></p> <p>The Appellate Litigation ranking saw a new No. 1 for the first time since the category was added in 2011, with <a href="https://firsthand.co/company-profiles/law/williams-connolly-llp" target="_blank">Williams & Connolly LLP</a> claiming the top station. <a href="https://firsthand.co/company-profiles/law/covington-burling-llp" target="_blank">Covington & Burling LLP</a> moved up two spots to take No. 1 in White Collar Defense & Internal Investigations. There were no changes at the top in Vault’s remaining practice area rankings. The full rankings for each practice area can be found <a href="https://firsthand.co/best-companies-to-work-for/law/best-law-firms-in-each-practice-area/antitrust" target="_blank">here</a>.</p> <p>Vault’s rankings for Best Firms to Work For, Best Summer Programs, Best Firms for Diversity, Midsize Regional Prestige, Midsize Best to Work For, and Top 150 Under 150 will be released in the coming weeks.</p> <p><strong>About the Rankings</strong></p> <p>The Vault 100 ranking is based on scores from more than 23,000 law firm associates surveyed earlier this year, who were asked to rate law firms on a scale of 1 to 10 based on prestige. Survey respondents were not allowed to rate their own firms and were asked only to rate firms with which they were familiar. In addition to the industry-wide ranking of overall prestige, Vault Law also asked associates to rate the local prestige of law firms in their region and to select the strongest firms in their specific areas of practice. From this data, Vault Law produced 17 regional prestige rankings, including rankings for <a href="https://firsthand.co/best-companies-to-work-for/law/best-law-firms-in-each-us-region/boston" target="_blank">Boston</a>; <a href="https://firsthand.co/best-companies-to-work-for/law/best-law-firms-in-each-us-region/chicago" target="_blank">Chicago</a>; <a href="https://firsthand.co/best-companies-to-work-for/law/best-law-firms-in-each-us-region/new-york" target="_blank">New York</a>; <a href="https://firsthand.co/best-companies-to-work-for/law/best-law-firms-in-each-us-region/northern-california" target="_blank">Northern</a> and <a href="https://firsthand.co/best-companies-to-work-for/law/best-law-firms-in-each-us-region/southern-california" target="_blank">Southern California</a>; <a href="https://firsthand.co/best-companies-to-work-for/law/best-law-firms-in-each-us-region/texas" target="_blank">Texas</a>; <a href="https://firsthand.co/best-companies-to-work-for/law/best-law-firms-in-each-us-region/washington-dc" target="_blank">Washington, DC</a>; and more. Vault also produced 24 practice area prestige rankings, including rankings for <a href="https://firsthand.co/best-companies-to-work-for/law/best-law-firms-in-each-practice-area/bankruptcy" target="_blank">Bankruptcy/Restructuring</a>, <a href="https://firsthand.co/best-companies-to-work-for/law/best-law-firms-in-each-practice-area/general-commercial-litigation" target="_blank">Commercial Litigation</a>, <a href="https://firsthand.co/best-companies-to-work-for/law/best-law-firms-in-each-practice-area/general-corporate-practice" target="_blank">General Corporate</a>, <a href="https://firsthand.co/best-companies-to-work-for/law/best-law-firms-in-each-practice-area/intellectual-property" target="_blank">Intellectual Property</a>, <a href="https://firsthand.co/best-companies-to-work-for/law/best-law-firms-in-each-practice-area/labor-and-employment" target="_blank">Labor & Employment</a>, <a href="https://firsthand.co/best-companies-to-work-for/law/best-law-firms-in-each-practice-area/mergers-and-acquisitions" target="_blank">M&A</a>, and <a href="https://firsthand.co/best-companies-to-work-for/law/best-law-firms-in-each-practice-area/privacy-and-data-security" target="_blank">Privacy & Data Security</a>, among others.</p> <p><strong>About Vault Law</strong></p> <p>Vault Law, an Infobase company, is the most comprehensive and trusted resource for law students and laterals to research law firms. Vault Law’s law firm rankings and profiles deliver the insider perspective and essential information candidates need to make successful career decisions. Each year, Vault Law surveys thousands of associates to understand what life is like for attorneys at the nation’s top law firms. Vault Law ranks law firms by prestige, region, and practice area as well as top firms for quality of life using its annual survey results. Additionally, Vault Law produces other valued resources including the Vault Law Resource Center: <a href="https://offers.vault.com/summer-guides/" target="_blank">Summer Associate Interviewing & Top-Ranked Program</a>, <a href="https://firsthand.co/vault-guides/guide/practice-perspectives-vaults-guide-to-legal-practice-areas-2023-edition" target="_blank"><em>Practice Perspectives: </em>Vault’s Guide to Legal Practice Areas</a>, and Law Firm Diversity Profiles. Through Vault’s law school platform, thousands of students from nearly 100 partnering law schools across the country have unlimited access to this critical information.</p> <p> </p> <p><strong>CONTACT:</strong></p> <p>Carter Isham, Senior Law Editor—Vault</p> <p>cisham@vault.com</p></content>
<dc:creator>
<![CDATA[ Carter Isham ]]>
</dc:creator>
<guid nid="277730">https://firsthand.co/blogs/vaults-law-blog-legal-careers-and-industry-news/announcing-the-2024-vault-100-practice-area-prestige-and-regional-prestige-rankings</guid>
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<![CDATA[ 4 Ways to Support Your Transgender Colleagues, During and After Pride ]]>
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<![CDATA[ This Pride Month, we offer suggestions on how you can support your transgender colleagues in tangible, actionable ways in the workplace. ]]>
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<link>https://firsthand.co/blogs/diversity/4-ways-to-support-transgender-colleagues-during-and-after-pride</link>
<guid isPermaLink="true">https://firsthand.co/blogs/diversity/4-ways-to-support-transgender-colleagues-during-and-after-pride</guid>
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<![CDATA[ Workplace Issues ]]>
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<![CDATA[ Diversity ]]>
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<pubDate>Tue, 20 Jun 2023 00:00:00 GMT</pubDate>
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<content><p>This year’s Pride Month is a bittersweet one, perfectly captured by the chosen theme: Peace, Love, Revolution. At the time of writing this, the ACLU is tracking more than 490 <a href="https://www.aclu.org/legislative-attacks-on-lgbtq-rights" target="_blank">anti-LGBTQ+ laws</a> on the dockets of nearly all state legislatures, the overwhelming majority of which target transgender people. These range from restricting access to gender-affirming health care to so-called “bathroom bills” to book bans—practically no aspect of life is untouched, including the workplace.</p> <p>It's easy, when June comes along, to get lost in the rainbows and “love is love” signs. Pride is celebratory—so by all means, celebrate. But, first and foremost, Pride is a protest. How do we carry this support into the other parts of the year, when the parades are over? Here are some ways that you can support your transgender colleagues and employees in a tangible way.</p> <p><strong>Reaffirm your organization’s initiatives and make an actionable plan.</strong></p> <p>Most larger organizations have mission statements and diversity, equity, and inclusion pledges somewhere on their websites. Pride Month is always a good time to revisit these statements—have the folks in your organization looked at them recently? Are your organization’s values well represented in the company’s day-to-day culture?</p> <p>Diversity, equity, and inclusion are more than a piece of copy on the company website, however. It’s all well and good to say that all folks of different strokes are welcome at your organization, but what policies and practices are in place that ensure it? Some examples could include covering gender-affirming healthcare in company insurance policies, adding pronouns to company email signatures, ensuring that the organization’s dress code is gender-neutral, and having policies within HR to navigate any issues of discrimination trans employees may face. It’s important, when it comes to DEI, that the company’s actions and culture reflect its stated values.</p> <p><strong>Organize a read-along.</strong></p> <p>I’ve always said that one of the best ways to engage with experiences outside of one’s own is to read about them. LGBTQIA+ people so often are just asking for their friends and colleagues to listen to them, to empathize with their experiences. Reading memoirs is one way to do this. Below are some of my favorite memoirs by trans and nonbinary authors, which are sure to spark empathetic discussion.</p> <p><em>Dear Senthuran</em> – Akwaeke Emezi</p> <p><em>Sissy: A Coming of Gender Story</em> – Jacob Tobia</p> <p><em>Redefining Realness</em> – Janet Mock</p> <p><em>Transgender History: The Roots of Today’s Revolution</em> – Susan Stryker</p> <p><strong>Raise funds for advocacy groups.</strong></p> <p>It’s a common practice for organizations to donate to LGBTQIA+-focused organizations come June, whether it’s a donation from the company itself or as a result of an organization-wide fundraiser. Some companies also do donation-matching, so employees can choose the organization that means the most to them, personally. However your organization prefers to do this, it’s always a good idea—nonprofits do incredible work for the LGBTQIA+ community, and they need money as much as they need support. Some great organizations to consider donating to are the National Center for Transgender Equality, the ACLU, The Trevor Project, and the Human Rights Campaign.</p> <p>However, it’s worth noting that these organizations are relatively large, and quite often receive a significant amount of money in donations, particularly in June. Advocacy site <a href="https://www.them.us/story/orgs-fighting-back-anti-trans-legislation" target="_blank">them</a> has a great list of smaller, statewide organizations that fight for the rights of transgender and queer people more locally, often in the form of direct aid (housing for LGBTQIA+ runaways, counseling for families of trans people, etc.). Donations to these smaller nonprofits can often go further, providing a bigger impact on your community. As they say: think globally, act locally.</p> <p><strong>Organize a write-in or call-in.</strong></p> <p>As mentioned previously in this article, nearly every state in this country is attempting to pass an anti-LGBTQ+ law this year, and a great many have succeeded. Calling or emailing your state and local lawmakers is an important and underutilized tool when it comes to making your wishes known to your representatives. Helpfully, there are also a lot of resources for making this process as easy as possible, like <a href="https://www.congress.gov/state-legislature-websites" target="_blank">this website</a> that finds all of your representatives statewide and their contact information. There are also often tools like scripts available to combat specific laws on the docket.</p> <p>It may not sound like much of a party, but having a set hour this month when people can pledge to write or call their local or state representatives can have a bigger impact than many more traditional workplace Pride programs. It also communicates to your colleagues that the organization takes the inclusion of its LGBTQIA+ employees seriously. There are few things quite so welcoming than knowing that your colleagues will go to bat for you and your rights.</p> <p> </p></content>
<dc:creator>
<![CDATA[ Kaitlin McManus ]]>
</dc:creator>
<guid nid="277727">https://firsthand.co/blogs/diversity/4-ways-to-support-transgender-colleagues-during-and-after-pride</guid>
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<![CDATA[ Maximizing Your Summer Associate Experience: Insights from Paul, Weiss Corporate Attorneys ]]>
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<description>
<![CDATA[ In this sponsored post from Paul, Weiss, hear from a few of their corporate attorneys about how to make the most out of your summer associate experience. ]]>
</description>
<link>https://firsthand.co/blogs/vaults-law-blog-legal-careers-and-industry-news/maximizing-your-summer-associate-experience-insights-from-paul-weiss-corporate-attorneys</link>
<guid isPermaLink="true">https://firsthand.co/blogs/vaults-law-blog-legal-careers-and-industry-news/maximizing-your-summer-associate-experience-insights-from-paul-weiss-corporate-attorneys</guid>
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<![CDATA[ Education ]]>
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<![CDATA[ Grad School ]]>
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<![CDATA[ Law ]]>
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<category>
<![CDATA[ Employer Posts ]]>
</category>
<category>
<![CDATA[ Productivity ]]>
</category>
<pubDate>Tue, 20 Jun 2023 00:00:00 GMT</pubDate>
<enclosure url="https://media2.vault.com/14348685/paulweissimage.jpg" length="0" type="image/jpeg"/>
<content><p><em>Curious how you can make the most of your time as a summer associate? From hands-on training to the chance to work with industry leaders, a typical day in the <a href="https://firsthand.co/company-profiles/law/paul-weiss-rifkind-wharton-garrison-llp" target="_blank">Paul, Weiss</a> summer program is packed with opportunities. In this piece, corporate associate </em><em>Kori Cooper</em><em>, who spent two summers at the firm, and her mentor, M&A partner </em><em>Laura Turano</em><em>, offer tips for maximizing your time as a summer associate and speak about the unique experience of being a Paul, Weiss summer associate in the firm’s New York office.<br /> ___________________________________________________________________________</em></p> <p>Summer associate programs provide a unique opportunity to glimpse inside a law firm and understand whether the work and culture are in line with your goals.</p> <p>“Working as a summer associate was my first introduction to law firm life,” says <a href="https://firsthand.co/company-profiles/law/paul-weiss-rifkind-wharton-garrison-llp/why-work-here-benefits/highlights" target="_blank">Paul, Weiss</a> associate Kori Cooper. “Having the chance to work for world-class clients on their most important transactions, learn about the firm’s award-winning practice areas, and network with firm attorneys and fellow summers confirmed for me that Paul, Weiss was the right place to start my legal career. With that in mind, after spending the summer after my first year of law school with the firm, I chose to come back after my second year of law school as well. I'm now in my second year at Paul, Weiss, and absolutely love it.”</p> <p>The key is finding out what makes your firm stand out so you can determine if it is the best fit for your career.</p> <p>“In my mind, what sets the summer associate experience at Paul, Weiss apart is the opportunity to work on the most important matters for some of the largest public companies and private equity firms in the world,” says partner Laura Turano. “Lawyers at Paul, Weiss, across all seniority levels, are committed to training and mentorship. This means when you get an assignment, you'll get the full context on why the assignment matters and advice on how to approach it. And you'll get real-time feedback on how to make your work shine. We do all these things because we're committed to delivering the very best work to our clients, which means developing and training future stars.”</p> <p>Read on for advice on how to get the most out of your summer experience and to get an inside look at the transactional summer associate experience at Paul, Weiss.</p> <p><strong>Choose a Firm That Aligns with Your Practice Goals</strong></p> <p>A successful summer associate experience begins when you research firms. Among the areas to consider are a firm’s practice strengths, the types of matters they handle, and the firm’s growth trajectory. Ideally, you will return to your summer firm as an associate, so it is important to find a firm that aligns with your goals and interests and also provides opportunities to learn and develop.</p> <p>“Many firms handle transactional work, but I wanted to join a firm that tackled novel, complex deals—a place that valued creativity and cutting-edge thinking,” says Cooper. “After researching Paul, Weiss, I was struck by the high-profile deals the firm handled, and the enthusiasm lawyers I met with had for what they do. I knew I would gain tremendous experience here.”</p> <p>It’s also important to understand how involved associates at all levels will be in the work.</p> <p>“Paul, Weiss leads pivotal matters, advising blue chip companies, such as Amazon, General Electric, General Motors, IBM, McDonald’s, Merck, and Qualcomm, on their most important deals and activist defense matters. We advised Nuance Communications in its $19.7 billion sale to Microsoft, MGM in its $8.45 billion sale to Amazon, and Apollo Global Management, Inc. in its $43 billion merger with Athene. The firm also recently counseled The Estée Lauder Companies Inc. in its $2.8 billion acquisition of luxury brand TOM FORD, and Amazon in both its $3.9 billion acquisition of One Medical and its $1.7 billion acquisition of iRobot. Paul, Weiss handles major, cutting-edge deals,” says Turano. “High-profile transactions like these are team efforts, from the most junior lawyers to the senior partners. Go to a firm that offers you opportunities from the start.”</p> <p><strong>Immerse Yourself in Learning Opportunities</strong></p> <p>Summer associate programs offer myriad ways to learn about the greater industry and the firm specifically; take advantage of these opportunities. Whether during a training session led by a veteran private equity lawyer, time spent working on a multibillion-dollar fundraise or an after-hours social, there are daily opportunities for Paul, Weiss summer associates to meet and learn from associates and partners who have worked at the highest levels of industry and government.</p> <p>“Some of the most meaningful experiences of my two summers at the firm were opportunities to hear directly and candidly from seasoned practitioners,” says Cooper. “I absolutely loved ‘The Big Deal,’ a lunch talk with Corporate Department Chair Scott Barshay and M&A partner Steve Williams, where they regaled us with war stories about major deals they have done for Fortune 100 companies. It was exciting hearing how junior associates played instrumental roles at key moments in important deals.”</p> <p>At Paul, Weiss, summer associates also gain insights directly from clients through the firm’s Fireside Chat series. For example, one past chat featured Francesca Campbell, who shared her perspective about moving in-house as vice president and chief M&A counsel for Carrier Global, a Fortune 500 company. During the presentation, she stressed the key role young associates can play on a transaction and how, through excellent work, the Paul, Weiss associates on the deal team advising Carrier in the $3.1 billion sale of its Chubb business did exactly that. In further partnership with Carrier, the firm has coordinated a secondment program in which summer associates have had the opportunity to work directly on Carrier’s legal team in two-week rotations.</p> <p>Shadowing is another invaluable learning opportunity. Paul, Weiss summer associates have the chance to shadow partners for an inside view into what goes into a negotiation, deal signing, client meeting, or pitch. Turano encourages summer associates to seek out these opportunities.</p> <p>“Shadowing gives summer associates direct exposure to the legal world. Be ready to hear a lot of things you don’t understand—remember you are there to see and learn,” Turano says. “Law is an apprenticeship. You learn from people—which is why you want to be at a firm with the very best people to learn from, and you want to take every opportunity you can to see and hear them in action.”</p> <p>At Paul, Weiss, our top-ranked partners are committed to associate learning and development, including helping associates develop relationships with clients so they can rise to the top of their fields. It’s important that the firm you choose offers these types of learning opportunities and the chance to engage with clients.</p> <p><strong>Take on Substantive Work </strong></p> <p>As a summer associate, raise your hand for substantive work; there is no better way to understand associate life than working alongside a team on a significant assignment. Paul, Weiss transactional summer associates don’t just work on discrete assignments—they join the deal teams.</p> <p>“As a summer associate, I worked on a complicated spin-off transaction where we represented a well-known automotive company, and I was able to learn all about how the company ran its business as we prepared the legal due diligence reports,” says Cooper. “I was invited to join team calls and meetings, so I gained a broader understanding of the deal and how it fit into the client’s business strategy.”</p> <p>If you are still exploring which practice area or group you want to pursue, find a firm that allows you to gain exposure to a wide variety of areas. Summer associates at Paul, Weiss can work simultaneously on deals in different transactional practice groups; sample work from Litigation and other practice areas; and have the opportunity to consult subject matter experts in such areas as cryptocurrency, executive compensation, tax, tech transactions, and more.</p> <p>“Paul, Weiss lawyers always work as a team, across practice areas, to develop the best advice for the client. For instance, if a summer associate is researching MAE provisions in merger agreements, I will have them join me for a discussion with the litigators who worked on <em>Fresenius, </em>the only Delaware case to have found a Material Adverse Effect,” Turano says.</p> <p><strong>Join Inclusive Teams </strong></p> <p>Seek out opportunities to work with diverse teams and learn from the unique contributions of each team member. Inclusion is at the forefront of the Paul, Weiss experience, and our teams are stronger because of their diversity in perspectives and talents. Summer associates will be on diverse deal teams from day one.</p> <p>“It’s been inspiring to see teams led by attorneys of diverse backgrounds and identities. It has been pivotal in my growth and confidence to watch a woman lawyer masterfully command the room and negotiate great outcomes for our client,” Cooper says.</p> <p>Summer associates are also encouraged to join one of the firm’s six affinity <a href="https://www.paulweiss.com/about-the-firm/diversity-equity-inclusion/networks" target="_blank">Networks</a>. “Through participation in the firm’s Black Lawyer’s Network, as well as other network and engagement events over the summers, I have been able to connect with Paul, Weiss lawyers at the top of their fields who have become powerful mentors to me,” Cooper says. “Jeh Johnson, former United States Secretary of Homeland Security and a litigation partner at the firm, and Amran Hussein, a corporate partner and member of the firm's Private Funds Group, are among those people whom I was able to get to know better through the Black Lawyer’s Network. Both of them took time to meet with me outside of network events and have encouraged my growth as a legal professional at Paul, Weiss. You’ll find that your network will really want to see you learn and succeed at the firm.”</p> <p><strong>Develop Your Network</strong></p> <p>A critical part of the summer program is learning about the firm’s culture and getting to know the lawyers. Determine what type of environment is best for your personality, and explore whether the firm is a fit. Summer associates at Paul, Weiss will find a firm where lawyers enjoy spending time together and are supportive of each other’s work and accomplishments. The firm encourages summer associates to meet as many lawyers as they can and experience the culture for themselves.</p> <p>During the summer program, summer associates have the opportunity to socialize and network while enjoying the best of New York City. Receptions at iconic New York City spaces, Jazz at Lincoln Center, and partners’ homes are cornerstones of the summer program, alongside sunset sails around the Statue of Liberty, a luxury suite experience at Yankee Stadium, and the opportunity to see Shakespeare in the Park. Other summer associate favorites also include morning exercise classes, lunch at Marea, and coffee breaks at Blue Bottle. And, in a tradition going back generations, Paul, Weiss hosts after-hours refreshments in the cafeteria. </p> <p>“One of the firm’s guiding principles is that no matter how busy we get, it’s important to always take a break to celebrate the wins and to get to know your colleagues on a personal level,” Turano says.</p> <p>Turano also encourages summer associates to bring their personalities to work.</p> <p> “We don’t want our associates to be carbon copies. We want them to have their own unique personalities and to develop their own styles,” she says. “Remember, this experience is as much about developing your network as it is about the work. You’ll find the associates and partners approachable and eager to get to know you.”</p> <p><em>___________________________________________________________________________</em></p> <p><a href="https://www.paulweiss.com/" target="_blank"><em>Paul, Weiss, Rifkind, Wharton & Garrison LLP</em></a><em> is a firm of about 1,000 lawyers with diverse backgrounds, personalities, ideas, and interests who provide innovative and effective solutions to our clients’ most complex legal and business challenges. The firm represents many of the world’s largest and most important public and private corporations, asset managers and financial institutions, and clients in need of pro bono assistance.</em></p> <p><em>Paul, Weiss is widely recognized as having market-leading practices in public M&A, private equity, litigation, white-collar and regulatory defense, and restructuring, along with equally strong practices in executive compensation, intellectual property, personal representation, real estate, and tax law.</em></p> <p><em>Paul, Weiss recently won seven Law360 “Practice Group of the Year” recognitions for its achievements in 2022, including in the Banking, Fintech, M&A, and Sports categories. The firm has also been recognized by </em>The American Lawyer<em>, awarding multiple corporate partners “Dealmakers of the Year” awards in recent years, including Laura Turano in 2021 for advising Teladoc Health in its $18.5 billion acquisition of Livongo Health. </em></p> <p><em>If you are interested in being considered for a position in our 2024 Summer Program, we encourage you to sign up to interview with us during on-campus interviews at your law school. If you are unable to meet with us during on-campus interviews, please visit </em><a href="https://www.paulweiss.com/careers/lawyers" target="_blank"><em>our website</em></a><em> for details on our application process.<br /><br /><img style="width: 447.22222222222223px; height: 500px;" src="https://legacy.vault.com/media/14348686/turano_l_bio.jpg?width=447.22222222222223&height=500" alt="" data-udi="umb://media/18338a989aac445f85c1102caf89b345" /><br /></em></p> <p><strong>Laura C. Turano</strong> is a partner in Paul, Weiss’s Corporate Department and a member of the firm’s Mergers & Acquisitions Group. Laura’s practice focuses on advising clients in connection with public and private company mergers and acquisitions, joint ventures, carve-outs and other significant transactions. She also advises clients on activist defense and corporate governance matters. Laura was named to <em>Crain’s New York Business’</em> 2023 “Notable Women in Law” and was recognized by <em>Bloomberg Law </em>in its “They’ve Got Next: 40 Under 40” in 2022. She has also been recognized as one of the “Top Women in Dealmaking” by <em>The Deal</em>, a “Rising Star” in M&A by <em>Law360</em>,<em> </em>and one of the “500 Leading Dealmakers in America” by <em>Lawdragon</em>. In 2021, <em>The American Lawyer </em>named her “Dealmaker of The Year” for her role advising Teladoc Health in its acquisition of Livongo Health.</p> <p><img style="width: 0px; height: 0px;" src="nothing.jpg" alt="" data-udi="umb://media/5a77c64a6b284470805652cf20944f8f" /><img style="width: 447.22222222222223px; height: 500px;" src="https://legacy.vault.com/media/14348687/cooper_k_bio.jpg?width=447.22222222222223&height=500" alt="" data-udi="umb://media/5a77c64a6b284470805652cf20944f8f" /></p> <p><strong>Kori M. Cooper</strong> is an associate in Paul, Weiss's Corporate Department. Kori’s practice focuses on advising clients in connection with public and private company mergers and acquisitions, joint ventures, carve-outs and other significant transactions.<em><br /></em></p></content>
<dc:creator>
<![CDATA[ Paul, Weiss, Rifkind, Wharton & Garrison LLP ]]>
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<![CDATA[ 7 Fast-Growing ESG Career Paths to Consider ]]>
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<![CDATA[ ESG careers embody a commitment to safeguarding our planet and ensuring a sustainable future. Here are seven great ESG career paths to consider. ]]>
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<link>https://firsthand.co/blogs/in-good-company-vaults-csr-blog/7-fast-growing-esg-career-paths-to-consider</link>
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<![CDATA[ Job Search ]]>
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<![CDATA[ Workplace Issues ]]>
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<![CDATA[ CSR ]]>
</category>
<pubDate>Tue, 20 Jun 2023 00:00:00 GMT</pubDate>
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<content><p>In an era marked by pressing environmental concerns, it’s more important than ever to find ways to contribute to a sustainable future. One way to do so is to choose one the many exciting, challenging, and fast-growing <a rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://firsthand.co/blogs/job-search/3-great-esg-related-career-paths" target="_blank">ESG-related career paths</a>—encompassing environmental, social, and governance. Careers in ESG represent more than just employment and personal growth opportunities; they embody a commitment to safeguarding our planet and ensuring a sustainable future.</p> <p>So, if the prospect of participating in creating a healthier and more balanced world interests you, here are seven great career paths to consider.</p> <p><strong>1. Sustainable Energy Experts</strong></p> <p>In response to the call for renewable energy, a new wave of professionals is taking center stage: sustainable energy experts. As guardians of the solar, wind, and hydroelectric power sectors, they are instrumental in designing, implementing, and maintaining eco-friendly energy systems. They are also the architects of a greener future, blending technical prowess with a deep-seated commitment to the environment. As the winds of change continue to blow, we can expect to see an increasing demand for these experts dedicated to harnessing the power of nature to energize our world.</p> <p><strong>2. Green Building and Sustainable Architects</strong></p> <p>The concrete jungles of our cities are transforming into verdant landscapes with the rise of green buildings and sustainable architecture. It's here that professionals who design and construct environmentally conscious structures are making their mark. Their canvas is the built environment, and their palette consists of sustainable materials, energy-efficient designs, and waste-reduction techniques. The structures they create are not just buildings but monuments to a sustainable future, radiating the promise of eco-friendliness in every brick and beam.</p> <p><strong>3. Sustainability Consultants and Environmental Analysts</strong></p> <p>Sustainability consultants and environmental analysts play a critical role in a world racing towards sustainable solutions. They serve as the <em>c</em>ompass that guides businesses along the winding path toward eco-friendly practices<em>.</em> Leveraging their unique skill set, they help organizations decipher the complexities of sustainability, from energy use to waste management and beyond. And their influence extends to shaping policies and strategies that reduce environmental impact while bolstering business growth. They embody the delicate balance between environmental stewardship and corporate profitability, proving that going green can also mean growing green.</p> <p><strong>4. Environmental Engineering and Remediation</strong></p> <p>When it comes to reversing the damage inflicted on our planet, environmental engineers and remediation specialists are our most valuable allies. They act as the bridge connecting our current ecological situation with a future of revived ecosystems. With a blend of scientific knowledge and innovative approaches<em>,</em> they devise strategies to cleanse the environment of pollutants and rehabilitate damaged ecosystems. Their work is not limited to addressing existing issues but also involves predicting and mitigating potential ecological threats. They are the unsung heroes of our time, working tirelessly behind the scenes to restore the harmony between nature and human progress.</p> <p><strong>5. Green Transportation Specialists</strong></p> <p>The transportation sector is witnessing a sea of change steered by green transportation specialists. They are at the helm of moving towards a cleaner, more sustainable form of mobility. From promoting electric vehicles to exploring alternative fuels, they're driving the shift towards reduced emissions and increased efficiency. Their work also delves into the realms of urban planning and infrastructure, shaping a future where the roads we travel on are as green as the destinations we aim for. As they propel us towards this green horizon, their work becomes increasingly significant in our daily lives.</p> <p><strong>6. Waste Management and Recycling Experts</strong></p> <p>At the forefront of resource conservation are waste management and recycling experts. They envision a future where waste is not a by-product but a resource waiting to be tapped. They strive to turn the linear “take-make-waste” model on its head, promoting a circular economy that recycles and reuses. From waste reduction strategies to innovative recycling techniques, they are the gatekeepers of a sustainable future. As the custodians of our resources, they’re charting a course toward a world where nothing goes to waste.</p> <p><strong>7. Sustainable Agriculture and Food System Specialists</strong></p> <p>Within the rhythm of nature, sustainable agriculture practices and food systems strike a harmonious chord. Pioneering professionals within this field are reimagining how we produce and consume food to foster resilience, promote biodiversity, and ensure food security<em>. </em>Their work is rooted in a deep respect for the earth and its bounty. They advocate for organic farming, regenerative agriculture, and local food networks. These advocates are the architects of our meals<em>, </em><em>d</em>esigning food systems that nourish both our bodies and the planet. In the grand tapestry of sustainability, their efforts weave a thread of resilience, demonstrating that the food of the future can and should be grown in a way that contributes to the longevity of our planet.</p> <p><em>Joanna Baxter is a communications specialist at <a rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://muvnow.com/" target="_blank">müv | Trusted Florida Movers</a>. With a keen interest in environmental sustainability, Joanna is passionate about promoting eco-friendly practices within the moving industry. When she’s not coordinating moves or advocating for a greener world, Joanna enjoys exploring Florida's natural parks with her rescue dog, Max.</em></p></content>
<dc:creator>
<![CDATA[ Joanna Baxter ]]>
</dc:creator>
<guid nid="277714">https://firsthand.co/blogs/in-good-company-vaults-csr-blog/7-fast-growing-esg-career-paths-to-consider</guid>
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<![CDATA[ Resume Do's and Don'ts ]]>
</title>
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<![CDATA[ In this infographic, adapted from a few different sponsored posts, learn some of our best inside tips for what to do (and not to do) on your resume. ]]>
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<link>https://firsthand.co/blogs/vaults-law-blog-legal-careers-and-industry-news/resume-dos-and-donts</link>
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<![CDATA[ Resumes & Cover Letters ]]>
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<![CDATA[ Education ]]>
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<category>
<![CDATA[ Grad School ]]>
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<![CDATA[ Law ]]>
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<category>
<![CDATA[ Career Readiness ]]>
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<pubDate>Fri, 16 Jun 2023 00:00:00 GMT</pubDate>
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<content><p><img style="width: 657px; height: 1644px;" src="https://legacy.vault.com/media/14348669/vault-law-resume-dos-and-donts.png?width=657&height=1644" alt="" data-udi="umb://media/bf30649140b048d8b94768c36f6ec10a" /></p></content>
<dc:creator>
<![CDATA[ Vault Law Editors ]]>
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<![CDATA[ Turn Your Internship into a Full-Time Job with These Strategies ]]>
</title>
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<![CDATA[ In certain cases, an internship can lead directly into a full-time role. Here's how you can increase your chances. ]]>
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<link>https://firsthand.co/blogs/internships/turn-your-internship-into-a-full-time-job-with-these-strategies</link>
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<![CDATA[ Internships ]]>
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<pubDate>Thu, 15 Jun 2023 00:00:00 GMT</pubDate>
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<content><p>The probability of an internship converting into a full-time role varies from company to company. In certain cases, an employer will be transparent about how often they provide interns with a direct path toward full-time employment, and other times it is less clear. Either way, there are things you can do to greatly increase your chances at receiving a full-time offer at the end of the program.</p> <p><strong>Know the Company Culture</strong></p> <p>We’re always talking about conducting research during a job search, and that also goes for your internship. Take the time to look into the company by checking out its website and social media pages, where you can find information about a company’s leadership team, core values, and workplace culture, among other things. The more you can learn about the company before you start your internship, the more comfortable you’ll feel in those all-important early moments.</p> <p>The knowledge gained from your research will also give you an advantage over other interns who haven’t done their homework. You’ll be able to better anticipate the tone of the workplace and make any adjustments to help you to better fit in. If you’re able to demonstrate that you’re a great fit for the team during your internship, you’ll be far more likely to be hired for full-time employment at the end of the program.</p> <p><strong>Ask the Right Questions</strong></p> <p>Internships are all about learning and preparing for your career. This includes asking questions whenever you’re confused or in doubt; however, there are certain types of questions you should avoid. Let’s say you’re having trouble understanding a task or you’re preparing for a presentation. In either of these scenarios, it’s perfectly acceptable to ask your manager or mentor for help.</p> <p>During the course of your internship, you should avoid asking disruptive questions or questions that might make you seem lazy. For example, if your boss is providing details on an upcoming project, refrain from asking unrelated questions during that time. Use your intuition when it comes to asking questions during any kind of presentation. If the question feels disruptive or inappropriate, you’re probably onto something. In addition, avoid asking questions that you could easily find the answer to, or that you might be expected to know already.</p> <p><strong>Show Your Value</strong></p> <p>If you can prove that you’d be a great addition to the team, the chances that you’ll get a direct path toward full-time employment will increase drastically. As such, it’s important to do your best to demonstrate your value, and there are several ways to go about this. For starters, maintain a positive attitude and an eagerness to learn and take on new challenges. When it comes to your workspace, take the time to organize it and do your best to keep it that way.</p> <p>Always be punctual. This means showing up on time, attending meetings and events on time, and sticking to the designated break periods. Do your best to go above and beyond when it comes to your day-to-day tasks, and be consistent in the quality of your work. This will show that you’re motivated and committed, and that you have a strong work ethic.</p> <p><strong>Be a Problem Solver</strong></p> <p>All companies love employees who can solve problems. A great way to demonstrate your value during an internship is to show off your problem-solving skills. Now, keep in mind there is a distinct difference between a problem-identifier and a problem-solver, and if you are cognizant of an issue but you can’t think of a way to resolve it, it’s best to leave it be.</p> <p>Let’s say you’re particularly adept at front-end website development and you noticed that the company’s website is…how shall we say…<em>lacking</em> in the style department. Here, you could mention that you checked out the website and you have some suggestions to improve it, and that you’d be happy to put the time in to work on it. This will make you more memorable in your supervisor’s eyes, and will increase your chances at a full-time position at the end of the internship.</p> <p><strong>Take the Initiative</strong></p> <p>Throughout your internship, it’s crucial that you adhere to all the rules and guidelines set forth by your supervisor. That being said, there will certainly be opportunities to demonstrate your ability to take the initiative when it comes to certain tasks or with regards to developing valuable skills. Let’s say that you’ve been assigned a group project with some other interns, and you’ve got a great idea of how to start. In this scenario, speak up and make your ideas known.</p> <p>Another great way to take the initiative is to offer to take on additional tasks or projects. Whether you’re assigned to them or not, you’ll be demonstrating your eagerness to jump right into the work and tackle new and exciting challenges. Taking the initiative will prove that you’re ready for the next step, and it could lead to full-time employment with the company.</p> <p><strong>Show Interest</strong></p> <p>Another way to increase your chances at full-time employment is by simply expressing interest in a full-time role. One way to do this is to ask about direct pathways to a full-time role during the internship hiring process. This will give you a better idea of how often a company hires its interns at the end of the program.</p> <p>If you’ve done the proper research, you can find ways to connect your skill set and interests to what the company is looking for in a candidate. Then, you can have a conversation with your manager in which you can mention why you’d love to work for the company full-time. Your manager will appreciate your enthusiasm, and might just keep you in mind for the next open full-time role.</p></content>
<dc:creator>
<![CDATA[ Rob Porter ]]>
</dc:creator>
<guid nid="277680">https://firsthand.co/blogs/internships/turn-your-internship-into-a-full-time-job-with-these-strategies</guid>
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<title>
<![CDATA[ Practice Perspectives: Vault’s Guide to Legal Practice Areas, 2023 Edition ]]>
</title>
<description>
<![CDATA[ Perspectives is the insider's guide to what it's really like to practice at the nation's top law firms. This guide contains interviews with over 140 attorneys. ]]>
</description>
<link>https://firsthand.co/blogs/vaults-law-blog-legal-careers-and-industry-news/practice-perspectives-vault-s-guide-to-legal-practice-areas-2023-edition</link>
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<![CDATA[ Job Search ]]>
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<![CDATA[ Education ]]>
</category>
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<![CDATA[ Grad School ]]>
</category>
<category>
<![CDATA[ Law ]]>
</category>
<category>
<![CDATA[ Day in the Life ]]>
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<pubDate>Wed, 14 Jun 2023 00:00:00 GMT</pubDate>
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<content><p>I often say that if I had known more about the different areas of law as a law student, I might still be practicing law. While I’m happy with the path my career has taken, I believe that law students deserve greater insight into the actual practice of law and all the different practice areas than law school classes can provide. Knowing what each practice area entails is an essential component to choosing your desired practice, and understanding the difference between what a practice looks like at one firm versus another and what career paths are available for different practices are crucial for both law students and for laterals trying to decide where to take their career.</p> <p>This is where our annual <a href="https://firsthand.co/vault-guides/guide/practice-perspectives-vaults-guide-to-legal-practice-areas-2023-edition" target="_blank"><em>Practice Perspectives: Vault’s Guide to Legal Practice Areas</em></a> shines. The 2023 edition of <em>Practice Perspectives, </em>published this month, features in-depth Q&As with 140-plus attorneys from 54 top-ranked law firms, providing insight into the realities of practice across 24 major practice areas. You can also find the Q&As on the <a href="https://firsthand.co/careers/practice-areas" target="_blank">Practice Area pages</a> of our website. Questions cover types of matters and clients, career paths, typical tasks, suggested training, and more. We’ve done the work of interviewing these attorneys, so you have the information—whether you’re a law student, narrowing down your target areas, or a lateral, focusing on skill development or looking for your next “work home”— to help guide your choices and build your dream legal career.</p> <p>Here's a sneak peek inside the General Corporate section of the 2023 <em>Practice Perspectives</em> guide.</p> <p><em>Question: What types of cases/deals do you work on?</em></p> <p><strong>William Curtin, </strong><a href="https://firsthand.co/company-profiles/law/sidley-austin-llp" target="_blank"><strong>Sidley Austin LLP</strong></a><strong>:</strong> Most of my cases involve representing various constituents in chapter 11 bankruptcy cases in jurisdictions throughout the United States, as well as out-of-court restructurings. For example, I’m currently representing clients in bankruptcy cases pending in New York, Delaware, Texas, Virginia, and West Virginia.</p> <p><strong>Amy Wollensack, </strong><a href="https://firsthand.co/company-profiles/law/akin-gump-strauss-hauer-feld-llp" target="_blank"><strong>Akin Gump Strauss Hauer & Feld LLP</strong></a><strong>:</strong> I represent private equity sponsors like Mubadala Capital, Paine Schwartz Partners, ICV Partners, Mill Rock Capital, and other private equity funds and strategic clients such as Adtalem, Aptar, True, and other companies.</p> <p><strong>Kimberly Spoerri, </strong><a href="https://firsthand.co/company-profiles/law/cleary-gottlieb-steen-hamilton-llp" target="_blank"><strong>Cleary Gottlieb Steen & Hamilton LLP</strong></a><strong>:</strong> I have really enjoyed the variety of transactions and the range of clients I have been fortunate to work with in my practice. I have worked on a number of minority investments both on the buy side and the sell side. I have worked on acquisitions of companies ranging from small biotechs to large public companies. I have worked on the buy side and sell side of acquisitions of family businesses. I find it incredibly interesting to spend part of the day advising a large public company on a sale and then, later in the same day, advise a smaller family-owned company on its first capital raise from an outside investor.</p> <p><strong>Vanessa Jackson, </strong><a href="https://firsthand.co/company-profiles/law/davis-polk-wardwell" target="_blank"><strong>Davis Polk & Wardwell LLP</strong></a><strong>:</strong> I work on a variety of transactions related to acquisition financings, including both strategic acquisitions and private equity-led leveraged buyouts. In addition, I work on investment-grade credit facilities, both in the context of acquisitions and working capital facilities, as well as on restructuring-related financings for distressed companies. It is an incredibly interesting and complex area of the law, and I value the opportunity to work on such a variety of financings that address the needs of clients in various industries.</p> <p><strong>Davin Laskin, </strong><a href="https://firsthand.co/company-profiles/law/kirkland-ellis" target="_blank"><strong>Kirkland & Ellis</strong></a><strong>:</strong> I have had the opportunity to work on M&A deals with private equity firms, both to acquire other companies or their assets, or to sell or spin off companies in their portfolio. Having the opportunity to work on both the buy and sell side of deals as a junior attorney really helps to build a birds-eye view of how transactions work and to become familiar with the various tasks and responsibilities of each side. I've also worked on matters with the debt finance group to ensure financing of M&A deals. </p> <p><strong>Steven R. Burwell, </strong><a href="https://firsthand.co/company-profiles/law/proskauer-rose-llp" target="_blank"><strong>Proskauer Rose LLP</strong></a><strong>:</strong> While I enjoy working on a wide range of deals, my practice has been weighted towards equity capital markets transactions, which include initial public offerings, follow-on/secondary offerings, convertible deals, block trades, and transactions for Special Purpose Acquisition Companies (SPACs).</p> <p>--</p> <p>Best of luck finding the practice area that makes the BigLaw hours bearable! If you have questions about the <a href="https://firsthand.co/vault-guides/guide/practice-perspectives-vaults-guide-to-legal-practice-areas-2023-edition" target="_blank"><em>Practice Perspectives</em></a> guide, Vault’s <a href="https://offers.vault.com/summer-guides/" target="_blank">Summer Resource Center</a>, our other guides, or anything else, contact the Vault Law team or our Senior Law Editor, Carter Isham, at <a href="mailto:cisham@vault.com">cisham@vault.com</a>.</p> <p><em>You may have free access to Vault’s guides through your law school. Check with your career services office for more information.</em></p></content>
<dc:creator>
<![CDATA[ Carter Isham ]]>
</dc:creator>
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