Starting a new career in the world of law can be exciting for young associates. However, it can also be stressful, and at times, overwhelming. It can be particularly stressful for young associates starting their career during a global pandemic. These unprecedented times call for young associates to hustle a little bit differently. Here are some tips to help young associates navigate the start of their career during the age of COVID-19.
- Stay Visible Don’t hide.
Given that increased remote work provides few, if any, opportunities for in-person interactions, it has never been more critical for young associates to find ways to stay visible. Ensure that shareholders know you are available, eager and capable of working on their cases and projects. Stay in communication, preferably by video instead of only email or phone. Before the COVID-19 pandemic, you likely ran into shareholders naturally. For example, you might have stopped by a shareholder’s office and asked for input or feedback on a case. Don’t be afraid to do the same thing virtually. Shareholders give work to associates they think of. Make sure you and your work are seen. - Build Your Brand
Many young associates start their career’s thinking they should “keep their head down and do good work.” But time passes quickly in the world of law and if don’t focus on building your brand from day one, you will wish you had. Of course, you should be focused on billable hours, but a brand is one of the most valuable assets you can have. Make the best out of a difficult situation. COVID-19 has given young associates a unique opportunity to identify and develop a new practice area, ultimately leading to additional opportunities for internal networking with shareholders and external networking with clients. Become a COVID-19 expert. Join your firm’s COVID-19 task force or group that is advising clients on how to comply with President Biden’s COVID-19 Action Plan. Now may also be a good time to revamp your LinkedIn profile, write blog posts and record podcasts on substantive areas of law in which you practice, and create a professional development plan. - Embrace Virtual Networking Go virtual.
Networking is key for young associates starting their career. If you previously frequented happy hours or conferences held by your firm, the ABA or state and local bar associations—go virtually. If you didn’t previously take advantage of these networking opportunities, it’s time to start. While nothing beats an in-person event and many of us are experiencing Zoom fatigue, virtual networking can still be a great way to promote yourself and your firm. - Take of Advantage of Opportunities
Take advantage of opportunities, even small ones. Whether it be a pro bono opportunity, a new case, or planning your office holiday party, if you can make time, be the first to raise your hand. Pay close attention to internal emails and think about how you can be involved in firm activities Offer to help a shareholder with a client pitch. If your firm has a diversity, equity and inclusion committee, contact the chair and join it. - Take Care of Yourself Don’t burn out.
We know from pre-pandemic research that attorneys, especially young attorneys, struggle with mental health challenges. COVID-19 has only added fuel to the fire. These have been stressful times and it is important to promote your own wellbeing. The ultimate goal is to ensure a successful, productive and long legal career. Learn how to disconnect from work. Close your Exercise ring on your Apple watch by completing a 30 minute brisk walk. Maintain a sense of balance while working from home by creating a daily schedule and routine and try sticking to it.