Becoming Essential

Young lawyers often ask how to get the best assignments, identify the best skills to develop, and eventually position themselves for partnership in a firm or a leadership position in another organization. For many female lawyers, these discussions are often full of questions on how to accomplish those goals in a profession that, although making many strides toward diversity, has not yet reached that goal, particularly at the top positions.

Unfortunately, but not surprisingly, there is no “one size fits all” answer. But, one thing is certain: In today’s legal landscape, young lawyers need to develop both legal and business skills to maximize their chances for success. Here, we offer some suggestions designed to help accomplish both goals.