Recently, I had lunch with a young lawyer with a local IP firm to discuss her career goals. We were paired through a mentor program. I am pleased to communicate with lawyers at the beginning of their careers, when everything is possible.
During our lunch, she asked for my thoughts on three things that every young lawyer needs to know in order to be successful in private practice.
Three keys to success? Provocative question. I have been a lawyer for more than twenty-five years, and to repeat the old joke, I still have not, because I still practice.
I knew that this was not what she wanted to hear, so, on reflection, I came up with my list of three people. This tip applies to all areas of law or other specialties. The steps are simple, but not easy. But they can be fun. Good luck.
1. Become a good lawyer. This is your first job. Learn everything you can about your area of practice. Get all the customer experience. Treat the partners you work on as your customers. Connection Be responsive. Provide a good working product. Know the latest events. Anticipate needs. When you report a problem, suggest a solution. In short, learn to be a great lawyer. You must have the knowledge and skills necessary to work.
2. Network. The practice of law is a matter of relationships. It is not enough to have knowledge and skills. You must know the people. And people should know you. Keep in touch with classmates. Meet other young lawyers. Ultimately, you can get general advice for GE. Treat lawyers with respect and courtesy. Conflicts occur and lead to good lawyers who keep in touch. Join civilian groups: community, school, church, whatever. Participate in professional associations: ABA, local bar, state bar, etc. Participate, do not just join. Keep in touch with the people you meet. Excellent lawyers do not pay attention to every day, because no one knows them.
3. Create credentials. What you know and who you know is important, but it is not enough. You also need to create an expert reputation. This is what you are a good lawyer, which is the starting point. You need to set credentials so that your network of potential contacts can justify a recommendation for your companies and others. Write, teach, speak, lead the committees, win the cases that best suits.
If you can make it a habit to do each of these things in the early years of your career, you will be on your way to a successful career as a partner, conduct your own practice or do internal law regardless of your goal.
