Got an offer, but have little interest in the firm/law area Forum

[throwaway11]

This is a throwaway account for obvious reasons.

After I graduated this past May, I applied for jobs using the "shotgun approach": apply to any job that I qualify for and see what sticks. Implausibly I actually went far enough in the interview process that I actually got an offer from one firm. Unfortunately, this firm practices an area of law I have almost no interest in. Also, I was not impressed by the firm culture during my tour, and the parking lot was mostly full at 9-10pm both nights I was in town, which is not a good sign. I can't imagine working 80 hours a week in an area of law I find incredibly dull.

My parents and friends without offers think I am absolutely crazy not to accept the offer because it is the only offer I have out of the 31 jobs I applied for. Everyone regularly reminds me how poor the legal market is right now, and that my student loan payments start in 4 months. My salary offer was in the lower 60s.

I am really concerned that if I take this job and then quit a year or so down the road because I am miserable, I will damage my chances of getting another job.

What would you do?

[rad lulz]

Take the job bro

[somewhatwayward]

school/grades?

31 is tiny. many people apply to hundreds before they get a bite.

otoh, it's easier to get a job when you have a job.

what's the area of law? some areas will be more limiting than others.

[Anonymous User]

It'll be easier to get another job after having a job.

[vegeta]

If it's a decently reputable firm, take it.

[RedBirds2011]

Take the job bro

Seriously, TAKE it. Dont be picky right now...

[r6_philly]

I don't even see it as a choice, unless you can afford to lay off for a while not having a job. But that probably damages your future prospects, so ya, I don't see much of a choice.

[emkay625]

Take it and work hard. Then move on to a job you are more satisified in in a year or so.

[attractive_NUisance]

News flash: If you ever have a gap on your resume of more than a few months people won't want to hire you.

Always better to take a job over no job. Once you have another offer in hand you can debate which one is better.

[keg411]

It'll be easier to get another job after having a job.

+ infinite. You don't even have to wait a year if you really despise it. Start applying for other stuff about a month after you start and I bet you get bites.