Making the right choice

We had our firm legal dinner on Friday night and I had an absolutely amazing time. What made it even better was a Special Counsel from my team, was asked to give the toast to the firm. Her address was amazing and also got me thinking about some recent calls I have had from some young professionals who are thinking about changing workplaces.

During the toast, our Special Counsel spoke about being in a relationship with the firm, a marriage that you both work on and develop. I agree 100%. I only recently joined my current firm, but before I made the move I did my research as I wanted my next move to be long term and I wanted a firm I could "marry". I said this in my interview - I told them I didn't want to be moving firms again in my career and the only reason I would leave was to go to the Bar.  I asked questions about the group and the firm. I probably asked too many questions, but hey you spend at least 10 hours at work each day, so it's important that you know what the environment is like. 

For me, it's about working in an environment where there is support, opportunities for growth and development and having a great fit with the work and the people. When grad lawyers come see me about "locking in" (choosing a permanent group after rotation), I tell them they need to think firstly about the work they enjoy doing and secondly the team members. You need to love what you do, but your choice of group (or workplace) should not be solely based on who works there. You never know who will move on. 

I also get emails asking for guidance on moving jobs. When moving workplaces, you my view is that you should not focus solely on the money. I'm not undermining the importance of money (we all need to live), but if you are leaving purely because of the money, talk about it with someone else first to make sure you are making the right move.

At the opposite end, is an offer with a lower than expected package. I spoke at a College if Law seminar recently on performance reviews and Rebecca Kroon spoke on employment contracts and the employment relationship. I picked up a great tip from her which I am going to pass on to you all - if your package offer is not as high as you want but you can't negotiate higher, for whatever reason, at that time of offer, then ask for a formal package review at 6 months and have it as a term of your contract. Generally probation period reviews are held at the 6 month mark, so it can tie in well.

Overall, when making a choice about moving, or locking in, think long term and talk to others for input. This is a decision you should be workshopping, and dare I say it - make a list, and compare that list with your short and long term goals. 

I hope your workplace marriage is as wonderful as mine!