Already, whispers about lateral jumps are circulating in the office. The champagne corks under the desks and conference table have not even settled yet. As you know, the New Year is a prime time for attorney moves. It’s marked by large bonuses, or their tearsful absence, and an unexpected surge in wanderlust.
Before you leave your mahogany credenza behind and start pounding the pavement in search of the next big thing, take heed of the wisdom gleaned from a 27-year veteran headhunter. If you avoid these seven legal landmines then your lateral jump will land gracefully, and not with a faceplant.
Rule #1: Stop Wanderlust Whims.
Energy is not a compass. Do not trade in one cage for another because the bars are shinier. Consider not only what you want, but also what you don’t want . You need support, but you can’t get it. Are you stuck in a mud of endless paperwork? Your rates being raised so high that you lose clients? You won’t be able to solve your problems by moving to another firm with the same issues. Don’t just move because you want to. This is how lawyers end up in the fire.
Rule #2: Slow down, Speed Demon.
Career decisions should not be rushed, but rather deliberate. Refuse to be swayed by persuasive partners or headhunters who promise a professional paradise. Take your time. Do your due diligence and be patient.
Rule 3: Quantify your carrots
Do not be fooled by false promises. Do not be fooled by mirages. How will your book, your income, or your mental balance be improved by this action? Wise decisions are based on concrete benefits, not vague promises. Do not accept a deal unless there are clear and measurable benefits.
Rule #4: Two-Way Tango
Remember that interviews are not one-step affairs. In the first part, impress them with your knowledge of law, your clientele and other things. Don’t forget, however, to also interview them. Assess the cultural fit of their company, their billable hours requirements, and whether they can meet your professional goals. Ask probing, red-flag questions and make sure their vision for your future is aligned with yours.
Rule #5 – Know your client capital
Do not assume that your client list follows you around like a puppy. Assess client loyalty and any potential conflicts. Will your book survive transition? We’ve seen partners who thought that their massive business books would transfer to another firm, only to be forced to explain to the other firm why this wasn’t true.
We created a Client Portability Assessment that helps attorneys assess this. First, ask if they have asked their clients about the firm that they are considering. The ABA’s archaic, idiotic rules prohibit asking “Would You Move With Me?” Instead, you should ask “You Know, ABC Firm’s Rates are Lower and I’ve Heard Their Attorneys are Free to Give Much More Personal Service.” Whoever does not ask this question before moving is being reckless. Some questions that attorneys should ask themselves are basic, but they’re often overlooked: Did you invite the client? Do they always call you first when they have a problem?
You can use these questions and another 20 to determine who will and won’t move with you. Before you say goodbye to your corner desk, do a portability analysis. Otherwise, your next office might only be temporary.
Rule #6: Stop the Indecisive Tango.
Do lawyers overthink? Tell it to be so! ” Analysis Paralysis is a lawyer’s worst enemy. I’ve seen lawyers who had the information they needed to make an informed decision procrastinate so long that the offer was withdrawn. You should weigh the pros and cons. Get trusted advice, then come to a decision. If the deal does not resonate with you, thank them and move on. If the opportunity is a match for your soul, then seize it. Indecision leads to missed opportunities and undermines trust.
Rule #7: Trust your gut.
Listen to your gut instincts, no matter how persuasive or dazzling an offer may be. Consider the results you got when you went against your gut instinct. This is intelligence beyond the brain. Do not ignore it. Your well-being, and your professional satisfaction should be the top priority.
When the New Year arrives, you should approach any potential moves with the same strategic brilliance that you would bring to a courtroom fight or merger. A well-considered move can propel your career to Olympian levels, but a hasty choice can land you on the steps of an office building. Trust your gut, tread carefully and make wise decisions. In the high-stakes world of legal mobility you need to make informed decisions and trust your instincts.
Post: Are you considering a new job for the New Years? The post 7 Cardinal Rules From a Veteran Headhunter first appeared on Attorney at Law Magazine.