The Early Bird Advantage: Why Being First to Apply Matters in Lateral Hiring

In the world of lateral hiring, timing can make all the difference. When a law firm opens a new associate or counsel role, the earliest qualified applicants often get the first and sometimes only serious look. If you are considering a move, being among the first to apply can give you a real advantage.

Why Being Early Matters

Firms rarely wait until an application window closes before reviewing resumes. In many cases, they begin interviews with strong candidates as soon as applications start coming in. By the time a posting circulates widely or reaches a public job board, initial interviews may already be underway.

Being early positions you to:

• Be part of the first review group. Recruiters and hiring partners often focus their attention on the first wave of candidates.

• Face less competition. Once a firm identifies a few strong applicants, they may slow or even stop reviewing new submissions.

• Show initiative. Submitting your materials quickly demonstrates genuine interest and preparation, qualities firms appreciate.

How to Be Ready When the Right Role Opens

Getting in early is not a matter of luck. It comes from preparation and strong professional relationships. Here is how to position yourself effectively:

1. Have Your Materials Ready

Keep your resume, deal sheet, and writing sample current. If it has been several months since your last update, take time to refresh your achievements and new experiences. When the right opportunity arises, you want to be able to submit immediately without rushing to revise.

2. Build a Relationship with a Trusted Recruiter

A good legal recruiter is often one of the first to hear about new openings, sometimes before they become public. Maintaining an ongoing relationship allows your recruiter to move quickly when a position matches your background and goals.

This partnership gives you an inside track. With your materials ready, your recruiter can present you to decision-makers as soon as a new role becomes available.

3. Stay Clear on Your Goals

Be clear about what kind of firm, practice area, and culture you want. When your recruiter already understands your preferences, they can easily screen for only the most pertinent opportunities. Clarity allows speed, and speed is a real advantage.

The Bottom Line

Being one of the first applicants to a lateral role can significantly improve your chances of landing an interview. Preparation and partnership are key. Keep your materials polished and work closely with a recruiter who can move quickly when the right opportunity comes along.

In a competitive market, the early applicant often gets more than a head start—they get the interview.