By Daniela Aroche

Lawyers looking to change jobs should keep an open mind when looking for new employment.

According to the recent Career Transition Candidate Survey from Right Management, nearly half (47%) of jobseekers change industries to land a new role, the same proportion change job function, and another ten per cent change location, so being flexible increases the probability of finding a  position that is lucrative, rewarding and enjoyable.

"There are many industries facing critical skills shortages and companies will consider candidates with skill sets that could be transferred to a different field. This presents more opportunities for jobseekers willing to look outside their traditional roles and current locations when considering a new position," said Tim Roche, career management practice leader at Right Management.

The benefits of casting the job seek net wide when searching for new and challenging employment options are numerous.

"Flexibility within reasonable means allows jobseekers to open new doors and options for their careers they may have never previously considered as viable options. For example, relocating out of your home country may boost your career by providing you with exposure to work in a unique geography which may in turn assist you in developing your skills further," said Chrys Leong, consultant of legal at Hudson Global Resources.

However, while this strategy yields many benefits, it is important for a lawyer to firstly work out how wide they need to spread the net, weigh up competing demands and come to a decision based on their own needs and career goals. Also important is to seek counsel from mentors, peers and others in the industry to ensure that your flexible options are compatible with your ultimate career goal/s.

"For lawyers, if they have a niche skill which is in demand in-house or in a different location, their transition will be relatively less challenging than switching industry and move into a different area of practice altogether," said Leong.

"Logically if you have a skill that is in demand and you have a stellar reputation to boot, doors will naturally open for you. However, you need to be certain about your motivations and how the immediate decision to broaden your horizon will contribute to your longer-term career objectives."

Companies and law firms hiring lawyers from interstate may also inquire about the motivations for relocating and it often helps if the lawyer can research to ascertain their standing in the job market and build on their contact base and reputation in the industry as this will help to strengthen their pull as a potential candidate.

"You need to take stock of your work, how good you are in it and what your reputation is. Pull all levers whether internal or external," she said, "... and network. Ensure that you have a strong book of work and a reputation for that work. Be well researched as to where you are pitched in the market and where your experience and skills are in demand."