Success in the legal industry is never an isolation from hard work, but it’s key for an attorney to understand that hard work alone doesn’t guarantee them achievement of their career goals. This stands particularly true when transitioning to the role of an in-house counsel.
Looking back at my own career, it’s clear that every significant achievement after my first job at a law firm was a direct result of connections I established along the way. While networking might seem daunting for fresh attorneys, it’s crucial, and it can start within the work premises itself.
My career kick-started with the corporate tax group at Kirkland & Ellis in Chicago, right after completing law school. A few months into my job, I was enlightened by the perspective of a senior partner who perceived his corporate associates as clients. He suggested that tax attorneys should consider ‘business development’ with corporate lawyers, in order to establish their own brand, generate more business, and garner a reliable reputation.
Even though I was hesitant at first, I started attending more corporate and transactional meetings, lunches, and CLEs (Continuing Legal Education) at my firm. People tend to rethink their attitude towards networking once they start seeing it as a natural part of their routine.
My networking efforts bore fruit when a new lateral hire began sending me work, seeking advice on tax matters related to his deals. Furthermore, this colleague introduced me to a venture capitalist who was instrumental in seed fundraising for a rising meal-kit delivery company, Home Chef, and was in the process of selecting a general counsel for the company. Taking this opportunity, I stepped into my role as a legal department head, even if it meant managing a startup company.
My stint at Home Chef not only enriched me with practical, hands-on knowledge of law as an in-house attorney but introduced me to several resources and networking groups. Access to networks like Association for Corporate Counsel and TechGC opened doors to a multitude of connections.
From starting a chapter of TechGC in Chicago to being a part of informal gatherings of attorneys to co-founding New Era ADR, my journey has been incredibly rewarding. It’s fascinating to note that every step of my career journey can be traced back to a conversation with an associate at a networking event almost a decade ago.
In conclusion, while hard work sets the foundation for a successful legal career, networking shapes and guides its trajectory. Whether it’s about befriending colleagues or starting a networking group, one must never shy away from stepping out of their comfort zones.
For the full original article, visit Bloomberg Law.