EA Spotlight

People often ask me if I enjoy working as an Employment Advocate (''EA'') here at Legal Authority. My answer is always a resounding yes. Not only do I get to bring my dog to work with me every day (a huge perk!), but I also get to fulfill one of my lifelong goals of being a counselor.

I think what sets Legal Authority apart from other similar services is that we are a full-service operation. Our members receive many exclusive amenities, including unlimited access to our sophisticated database of contacts, expertly crafted resumes and cover letters, and professional production of their job-search documents.

In addition to the aforementioned benefits, Legal Authority clients also receive personalized employment counseling. I have an open-door policy with my clients, which means that a client may contact me at any time with employment questions or career counseling needs.

I personally know the pressures of being an attorney. Being a "survivor" of a big firm and having also worked in-house at a nonprofit, I know the rules of the game. The truth of the matter is that we, as attorneys, are kind of a weird bunch of folks. Although we are all undeniably different (imagine snowflakes), we also seem to have some basic commonalities.

For instance, all of us had to be driven enough to graduate from college, graduate from law school, and pass the dreaded bar exam. Most of us are used to being characterized as overachievers, the kids in school who always did well. Professional failure for most attorneys is something very foreign to them, something that becomes very difficult for them to grapple with once that elusive "Esq." follows their names.

This is where I enter the picture. After our writers have worked their magic for you and you have sent out your impressive stack of letters, I am the one you can call on for employment-related advice. I don't profess to know all by any means, but I guarantee you that I will genuinely try to give you sound advice derived from my experience in the legal field.

You can ask me questions on subjects that are traditional (interviewing, negotiating salary) and offbeat (fashion choices, staple vs. paper clip). If your concern is within the realm of career counseling, it is fair game.

I often get testimonials from clients saying that the counseling aspect of their membership was particularly helpful to them. In a way, it makes a lot of sense. Your EA is neutral and has no hidden objectives in relation to your job search. We are here to give you the best advice possible. Although I have been known to utilize a "tough love" approach in my interview critiques of clients, my comments are always made to benefit them and promote long-term success.

I think a mock interview with an EA is a great way to learn your strengths and shortcomings within an interview setting. Our EAs will be able to describe your demeanor (e.g., excited, aloof, apathetic, nervous) and give you pointers on how to improve those all-important interpersonal skills.

At times, the best counseling I can do for someone is to just listen and listen well. I can't tell you how many times I have heard someone exclaim, "That's exactly how I feel!" because they felt understood. The counseling aspect of my job really is the best and most enjoyable part. I know it sounds corny, but it really makes me feel good to know that I may have made someone's day a little brighter by highlighting his/her talents and abilities and by sharing a little humor.

It's also very rewarding to hear about clients who nailed interviews after having coached and advised them during mock interviews. During those joyful times, I get to share in a little part of my clients' victories and happiness. I get to be a part of the solution.

I hope that if you are in the market for a new position within the legal realm, you will consider enlisting Legal Authority. All of our EAs are here to offer you guidance, advice, and support. Also, in case you were not already aware, we have introduced a financing option. Becoming a member is now easier than ever before.

We hope to hear from you soon. If you would like to schedule a free resume critique and marketability consultation with one of our EAs, please do not hesitate to contact us at 800-283-3860. Thanks, and good luck out there!