WSJ Reports on New Job Search Rules for 2022. What Applies to Lawyers?

Last week the Wall Street Journal reported that “[w]orkers are quitting in record numbers. Salaries are up, and flexibility is in.” For this new environment WSJ gives updated job search rules. Which apply to lawyers? Here are the best ones:

1. How to ask about flexibility. While it’s a valid question (perhaps the one driving you to consider a job change!), don’t lead with it because you’re giving the company “additional information that could potentially impact you.” Instead “[a]sk questions about how the company has evolved its approach to work during the pandemic. Based on the response, you might not have to ask for a specific accommodation to get the flexibility you need.” I agree. Wait until you have offer in hand and they understand all the value you bring.
2. How to ask about COVID response and going back into the office. WSJ says not to list your vaccine status on your resume. (Obviously! Who does that?) It is ok to ask about a vaccine policy and safety protocols. (Yes, I can confirm my candidates are doing that and getting thoughtful responses.) And what about asking about long-term remote work? I find companies usually address this upfront and will tout remote work as a benefit if they are offering it. A Dartmouth business school professor says “[i]f executives stay tight-lipped, leaving it at ‘we’re remote right now,’… brace for a full return.” Agreed. You can likely get your answer by asking about typical days and what is expected in the next X months.
3. How to evaluate culture. You want to join somewhere that will make you happier, but how do you figure that out? One way is to look at the company’s attrition rate. Also WSJ cautions interviewers to be wary of phrases like “wearing a lot of hats,” “teams are staffed leanly, or “liking hustle.” (That said, I find all fast-growing companies say this, and it’s necessarily not code for something else.) Observe how your interviewers talk about the company (are they excited or exhausted?) and how much attention the manager gives you during the interview. I have also seen candidates who received offers successfully request to speak to additional clients and co-workers.
4. How to negotiate compensation. WSJ reports candidates are now asking for 20-30% more for tech/corporate roles compared to 2019 and suggests using salary.com to understand the standard rate to base your ask. (See here for more resources.) Try not to give your range first. Do not volunteer your current pay (you don’t have to in CA and multiple states). (More resources here.)