Christopher Robin once imparted to Winnie-the-Pooh a profound lesson: “Promise me you’ll always remember: you’re braver than you believe, and stronger than you seem, and smarter than you think.” For in-house lawyers grappling with career uncertainties, these words may offer limited comfort. However, they encapsulate a vital truth that must be acknowledged when facing an unexpected career transition. Embracing your inner strength and resilience is essential during times of change, and recognizing your capabilities is the first step toward navigating the complexities of your career.
Many in-house lawyers enter the corporate and government sectors with the expectation of long-term job stability. Unlike the demanding environment of law firms, which often impose billable hour pressures, or the solo practitioners who tirelessly seek new clients, roles within corporations and government agencies are perceived as offering predictable work patterns, consistent paychecks, and a clear pathway for career advancement. Nevertheless, the reality is that job security in these environments can be deceptive. Factors such as layoffs, mergers, organizational restructuring, leadership changes, or evolving business priorities can swiftly transform what appeared to be a secure position into a precarious one. In such situations, being caught unprepared can be detrimental. Therefore, the most prudent approach is to be prepared for any eventuality.
Prepare for Career Changes by Taking Proactive Steps
Countless lawyers postpone considering career transitions until they are thrust into that situation unexpectedly. This is a significant miscalculation. The time to strategize for potential job changes is not the moment you receive a severance package from HR; instead, it should be well in advance of such an event.
The objective is to formulate a plan so that, if and when change occurs, you are not left scrambling but rather poised to transition smoothly. Here are actionable steps you can take right now to prepare for an unforeseen career shift.
1. Cultivate and Nurture Your Professional Network
Many corporate and government lawyers make the mistake of concentrating solely on building internal relationships, often overlooking the importance of establishing connections beyond their immediate workplace. However, if you unexpectedly find yourself seeking a new role, starting your networking efforts from scratch can be overwhelming.
Make it a point to regularly stay connected with former colleagues, actively participate in professional organizations, and attend relevant industry events. Engage with recruiters who specialize in legal placements, even if you are not currently searching for a job. Keep abreast of legal networking groups on LinkedIn, and consider joining bar associations or affinity groups to enhance your visibility in the legal community.
It’s crucial to remember that the majority of job opportunities arise from personal connections rather than online applications. Therefore, begin building and nurturing those connections now.
2. Regularly Update Your Resume and LinkedIn Profile
It’s all too easy to become complacent and allow your resume to gather dust, but if you had to submit an application tomorrow, would you be prepared? Consistently updating your resume and LinkedIn profile is a small yet vital step toward ensuring you are ready for any job opportunity that arises.
Make a habit of regularly updating your achievements, roles, and skills. Concentrate on quantifiable results — how have you contributed value to your organization or agency? Have you successfully reduced costs, minimized risks, or instituted new policies? Keeping detailed records of these accomplishments now will significantly simplify the process when it’s time to showcase your expertise later.
Additionally, ensure that your LinkedIn profile is robust. Follow industry leaders, share valuable insights, and actively engage with relevant posts. You never know who might encounter your profile at a crucial moment.
3. Broaden Your Skill Set for Greater Career Flexibility
In-house corporate and agency lawyers often find themselves specializing in specific areas, which is beneficial — until the need to pivot arises. If your experience is confined to a single industry or a narrow field of law, it may be advantageous to expand your expertise.
Seek opportunities to take on new responsibilities within your organization or agency. Volunteer for cross-functional projects, engage in compliance and data privacy initiatives, or obtain certifications that enhance your marketability. If time permits, consider offering pro bono services or joining nonprofit boards to gain experience in new areas. Remaining stagnant in your career poses a risk. By continually sharpening your skills, you ensure that when change occurs, you possess a diverse range of options.
4. Understand Your Exit Strategies and Opportunities
If your position were to vanish tomorrow, would you be aware of the severance package your company or agency provides? What about extensions of benefits, career transition assistance, or access to legal placement firms specializing in in-house roles?
Gaining clarity on your exit options now — rather than in a state of panic — will enable you to make informed decisions if the need for a career move arises. Dedicate time to researching market trends for in-house counsel. Which industries are actively hiring? What skills are currently in demand? Having this knowledge in advance will empower you to navigate the job market more effectively should the need to seek new employment arise.
5. Establish a Financial Safety Net for Peace of Mind
Job transitions become significantly less stressful when you are financially prepared. If feasible, aim to save a few months’ worth of living expenses to provide yourself with some breathing room in case you need to pursue a new position. If accumulating such savings seems unrealistic, explore ways to trim unnecessary expenses or create a plan to maintain short-term financial stability. Financial stress can cloud your judgment and lead to hasty decisions. Having a financial cushion allows you to adopt a strategic approach to your next career move rather than feeling compelled to accept the first opportunity that arises.
Embrace Your Readiness — Even When It Feels Daunting
Confronting career uncertainty can be intimidating, but always keep Christopher Robin’s words in mind. Throughout your career, you have honed skills in problem-solving, risk management, and strategic thinking — the very skills that will aid you during a transition. The crucial point is to take proactive control now instead of waiting for change to be thrust upon you.
Therefore, do not wait for someone to hand you a parachute. Take the initiative to prepare one for yourself. Start your preparations today. When the time comes, rather than feeling like you’re falling, you will be equipped and ready to leap.
Lisa Lang is an in-house lawyer and a thought leader with a passion for supporting fellow in-house professionals. She has recently launched a website and blog titled Why This, Not That (www.lawyerlisalang.com) as a valuable resource for in-house lawyers. You can reach her via email at lisa@lawyerlisalang.com, connect with her on LinkedIn (https://www.linkedin.com/in/lawyerlisalang/) or follow her on Twitter (@lang_lawyer).
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