Working in the law, whether as an attorney, a paralegal or in another role, is demanding, purposeful and rewarding. Like any field, it also produces positions that simply do not fit. Too much movement can hurt you professionally, so the decision is not one to take lightly, and a well-chosen change is a genuine step forward. Approach it with the right questions, and discuss the answers with someone who knows you: a friend, a partner, a mentor, your recruiter.
Why are you unhappy in your present position?
What is causing your unrest? What are the real reasons you want to change?
- Have you lost, or never had, a connection with your colleagues? Are you a small fish who would do better in a smaller pond, or the reverse? Is something larger causing the disconnect? People grow fastest in the job that fits them.
- Have you lost your passion? Don’t discount the fact that situations outside the office could be affecting your passion at the office, but get to the root issue. A change in your firm or your area of practice may be the best antidote and give you a renewed sense of purpose.
- Do you have a voice? Are you getting support and feedback from the people above you? If not, a move may be the answer, provided the new position is somewhere your voice will actually matter.
- Are you stuck in a position with little opportunity for growth? Did you miss that going in, or did the policy change after you arrived? Change is often the only answer, and an experienced legal recruiter can help you find a position that has room in it.
Once you’ve established your reason for wanting to change, consider this:
Change brings change, often in several areas at once. Decide which of it is acceptable and which is not, and tell your recruiter.
- What are your career goals? Will changing support these goals?
- Would the change require a move? Is that something your family would welcome?
- Will a change in employer make a difference or do you need to change to a new area of practice? If yes, does the area of practice you are considering have active openings? Is it currently in demand or becoming out-of-date?
- Do you have the skills, experience and temperament for the direction you want? What are your strengths and weaknesses, and will you need training before you move?
- Are you willing to give up something good to be rid of something bad? A sideways move, or even a temporary step back, sometimes ends in work you actually enjoy.
Asking those questions, and taking advice both from people who know the market and from people who know you, is how a sound decision gets made. At OnBoard Legal our recruiters work in the areas where they have the most experience and knowledge, which means they can help you both think through the decision and find the position. Contact us.