Reassessing Your Current Role? Consider These Three Core Areas.

When I speak to associate level attorneys and they are contemplating whether they should stay or go – I encourage them to consider questions around three core areas. This evaluation allows for an informed decision on if they will ultimately be able to achieve their goals with their current employer or if they should consider other options.

1. Mutuality

Is your firm investing to help you develop into the best lawyer you can be? Ask yourself:

a) Are you being given resources to develop the key core competencies expected of an associate in your field of practice? Is the firm training you on how to develop business?

b) Is your firm is investing in the areas that you prioritize and in ways that help you to achieve your goals?

c) Are your contributions to the firm yielding you the best ROI?

d) Have you found a mentor?

 

2. Growth

Are there growth opportunities at your current firm? Ask yourself:

a) Does continuing on your current trajectory better position you for advancement within your firm or otherwise pave a path towards your longer-term goals?

b) When will you have the best options in the market to position yourself for success and gain more control of the process?

c) Is your firm positioned to stay competitive and relevant given the current and projected future economy?

 

3. Joy

Will you achieve personal and professional fulfillment if you’re still working with the firm in three to five years? Ask yourself:

a) Does the prospective of staying in your current role long-term spark joy and excitement? When you look at the senior associates – or the partners – at your firm, would you want to emulate their careers?

b) When you assess your personal and professional goals, are you focused on opportunities that your current firm can likely offer?

Even when lawyers are not unhappy in their current roles, it helps them to take inventory. Keeping these touchstones in mind will guide attorneys on the path towards career growth.

 

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Valerie A. Phillips, Esq.
Senior Director, Associates, Counsel, Partners
Mestel & Company, New York