Managing Career Transitions

What You Need to Know About Career Transitions

Most lawyers remain in the workforce for at least 40 years from their mid-20s to 70s. They usually change jobs at least once during their career. Career changes can happen by accident or design. Motivation can include a desire to improve work/life balance, increase compensation, or improve career outlook. The following are tips for a smooth transition at any age, along with links to resources with more information.

Tips

  • Benefits – consider intangibles like hours, dress code, culture, overtime, remote work, etc.
  • Internal – try a new role with your current employer to avoid surprises at a different firm.
  • Learning - make yourself marketable by continuing education and getting certifications.
  • Motivation – pursue a career change that matches your motivation (e.g., compensation, stress, etc.).
  • Networking – seek career advice from senior lawyers and confer with family and friends.
  • Employer - open opportunities by considering a corporate, government, judicial, or non-profit job.
  • Profession – consider a new profession like consulting, management, mediation, recruiting, or teaching.
  • Risk - limit change to a single variable; purchase COBRA coverage until new health insurance starts.
  • Search – check alumni organizations, bar associations, career coaches, job postings, and recruiters.
  • Social – stay social with former colleagues to maintain friendships and networks.
  • Specialization – consider popular specializations like business, estate, family, labor, or tax law.
  • Timing – focus on responsibility in early career, compensation in mid-career, and fulfillment in later years.

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