Fear of Job Loss
According to a new study, nearly 30 percent of all large firm associates fear losing their jobs. While this may be a bit higher than it might have been several years ago, I imagine that this statistic is par for the course. Large law firms are not known for doing a lot of hand holding; and in both good and bad times, associates often tell us that they do not get enough feedback and are therefore worried about their tenure.
But what if work really is slowing down? Are you really at risk of being fired? Take a look at an article my colleague Carey Bertolet wrote on the subject.
Furthermore, how should you spend your time when there is “nothing to do?” Here is a partial list of suggestions:
- Write an article.
- Ask partners if they need help.
- Volunteer to put together CLE materials for a partner who is speaking at a conference.
- Join a bar association committee and volunteer for a high profile role.
- Check in with clients just to say hi. Invite them to lunch or coffee if they are local and use the time for relationship building.
- Attend CLE courses yourself.
- Meet classmates for lunch.
And if you really believe you are at risk of losing your job, start networking and job hunting. At the very worst you will gain more perspective on your current situation and learn something about the legal marketplace.
Related posts:
- “BAS” - Battered Attorney Syndrome
- But do you have any portable business?
- White Knuckles–part II
- Are you Eeyore or a Realist?
- The decade in review…for associates
- Vetting Partner Candidates
