In general, how is the job market in NYC right now? (New York: how much, transfer) - City-Data Forum

mayorhaggar · 05-11-2010, 07:11 PM

I'm thinking about moving to New York City possibly in a few months, but I'm apprehensive about how tough the job market might be in general due to the recession, I don't really want to move there and then be looking for work for like 6 months or more.

I've been working at a large law firm in San Francisco for 6 years now so I'd probably be looking for work at NYC law firms, and failing that looking for office work of any sort.

I know it's kind of a vague question but really I'm just trying to get a feel for whether it's a good idea to move sometime in the next few months, or move maybe next spring when the unemployment rate has hopefully dropped...but I don't want to wait forever! Thanks for any advice.

NYChistorygal · 05-11-2010, 10:35 PM

Unemployment rate was 10% as of about 2 weeks ago.

What are your marketable skills?

tpk-nyc · 05-12-2010, 09:48 AM

As someone who temps in the legal industry, the market is far better than it was six months ago. I think much of the contraction was preemptive rather than essential. Firms didn't know how much business they would have and, more importantly, if clients would be able to pay their bills. The market has stabilized and firms are able to make informed rather then speculative business plans.

Also, they used the recession to cull a lot of dead-weight in support staff and back-office operations (and associates). Since business hasn't contracted as much as expected, they need to replace those people.

As with anything in this city, it really depends on your qualifications and skill set. It helps if you've worked for a top flight firm in San Francisco, etc. If it's a large firm it probably has a New York office. Your best bet would be to transfer, if possible.

mayorhaggar · 05-12-2010, 10:48 AM

Thanks tpk, that is what I wanted to hear. Seems like here in SF the legal job market is rather slow so I was wondering if it was the case in NYC too. Good to hear that it seems better than it was.

daaaaave · 05-12-2010, 11:11 AM

I think here in NYC for the high end jobs where you went to school is huge. Personally, I do not think that is right, but I guess with so many people applying it's a quick filter.

edward713 · 05-14-2010, 01:44 AM

I'm in Chicago, and have family in New York. I was told the Legal Industry is picking up in New York, but it sucks in Chicago.