Foreign LL.M. students that come to the United States quickly learn that things are done a little differently than they are used to. There are five significant cultural values that when known and understood will help foreign attorneys navigate finding a job after their degree with more success.
- Personal Responsibility and Individualism
Too often foreign LL.M. students expect things to fall into place and that their law schools will do everything for them. Students from other cultures fall into the trap of thinking others will do something for them rather than just give some advice that they must act upon. Other cultures tend to be more reserved in openly discussing accomplishments, but the U.S. relies on students bragging about themselves with their elevator pitch and having an internal locus of control. Foreign LL.M. students that complain about the struggle of finding opportunities are often failing to network properly, which falls under the personal responsibility value.
- Egalitarianism
- Communication
The U.S. relies mostly on direct forms of communication. Forms of communication such as emails are used to serve a purpose, which is to get or give information quickly. There are other cultures that respect formality over direct speech. Be careful how you use your language and express things quickly and with as few words as possible.
- Time
The U.S. follows a monochromic dimension of time, meaning that time is a given that cannot be adjusted. People have to adjust time through appointments, schedules, and time management. Not following a schedule and being late is rude. Some cultures are more relaxed when it comes to keeping appointments and deadlines. In the US, time is seen as a valuable commodity, so when someone spends time helping you, that time should be appreciated greatly. Send follow-up emails thanking those that help you to ensure a strong relationship with them will continue in the future.
- Status
In the U.S., people are looked up to and respected because of their accomplishments. Since the U.S. does not let things like social class, family, and affiliations limit one’s ability to succeed, there is no excuse not to get ahead. Professionals in the U.S. want to see titles backed up by actions. Other cultures rely on things like family and social class to establish one’s reputation in society. People will be more interested in what you do, not that you are an LL.M. student. Your resume and cover letter should spell out what you have done with your education not just that you have a degree.
Learn the benefits of an LL.M. degree here.
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Photo: peoplebusiness.org
