Last week I received calls from two 1st year associates in #BigLaw who broke down about unfair & unrealistic pressures.
It breaks my heart that the challenges we all endured in BigLaw (associates & partners alike) persist.
I wanted to share 3 pieces of practical advice:
❶ Find the "Yes way" to say "No".
If you're given an unrealistic task, it's really hard - or impossible - to just say No. BUT, you can say: "Wow, thank you Partner 2! This sounds like an amazing project! I'm currently working with Partner 1 on another time-sensitive matter. Would you like me to talk to Partner 1 to see if they have flexibility on timing?" 9 times out of 10, Partner 2 will understand.
❷ Seek out your "crew" as soon as possible.
Big firms are huge corporations but run like fiefdoms. If you hear or find that a particular partner is a joy to work with, reach out & continue to seek work from them. The sooner you create your own "portfolio" of work you like, the easier your ride will be.
❸ Always remember that you're there to learn exactly this: How to be confident & true to yourself in difficult situations under a lot of pressure. (You're not there to learn how to write a motion, or do due diligence - most people can do that.)
