Tips for job seekers in a tough economy:

People get jobs through people they know. Renew old acquaintances, make new connections and stay in contact with your legal recruiter.

A chance encounter can turn into a potential job lead. Don’t allow your preconceptions to close your mind to an opportunity.

Give up the mind-set that only large law firms have truly challenging work. In the current economy, the mid-sized firms with more flexible rates are the ones that are continuing to grow and they’re competing with the big firms for the best matters.

Think of yourself in terms of “value added.” Do your homework on the firm in which you’re interested and be prepared to discuss what you bring to the table, both in terms of skills and potential client relationships.