In this article, we discuss the 8 signs that it is time to look for a new role. Read on to discover the warning signs, what to look for and how to actively take control of your career.
As a specialist recruiter to the Australian legal industry, we found during the pandemic that many individuals were reluctant to consider new roles. They were worried about job security, about being the last one into a firm (and therefore possibly the first one out in a restructure), or were just feeling unsettled by our crazy, changing world of restrictions, working from home and video call fatigue. Even if they were unsatisfied in a role, they felt like it was better the devil you know!
Having said that, research suggests that up to 48% of the employees in the industry were open to changing roles, so how do you know when it is time to make that mental shift from “open to changing roles” to actively pursuing what you want next in your career?
In our experience, these are the signs you should keep a close watch for. They are the signs that your career is stagnating and that you are stuck in a rut.
1. You are Bored
If you are sitting in your comfort zone doing the same work day-in, day-out, it is most likely time for a new challenge. You may want exposure to more prestigious or interesting clients and more complex or diverse matters. It may just be that you want to delve deeper into an area of interest. Gaining the opportunity to specialise and become an expert in an area of law adds to your value and gives you a chance to solve complex problems and disputes. Any seasoned lawyer wants intellectually challenging cases and some diversity of problems to solve.
2. You Do Not Get Along with Your Boss
We really do spend so many of our waking hours in the company of our colleagues and bosses, even if it is virtually. If your boss is taking credit for your work, undermining you, treating you without respect or is just difficult to get along with, consider your options. Some bosses stay in roles for the long term.
3. Lack of Career Progression
Career progression is not just in relation to promotions, but also being given opportunities for new or additional responsibilities or more interesting matters or clients. It includes access to formal training and career development. Perhaps partnership is elusive or not possible where you are, or you have decided it is not for you. Or perhaps there is a lack of company mentors who could help guide your way to the next career rung where you are currently.
4. What Company Culture?
With so many people still working at least part time from home, company cultural issues can be a little more difficult to spot. You should at the very least be crystal clear on the company values and mission. A great culture will have leaders that role model the values and has a strategic direction that the whole organisation is behind. Is your firm transparent and do they treat staff and clients with respect? Are they encouraging diversity of recruitment and diversity of opinion? Do you feel proud working for them? Are the policies and procedures sensible and help you get your job done? Does the company culture help attract other talented staff? Are you working with people that inspire you?
If the culture feels like it is rubbing you up the wrong way, talk to us about the potential opportunities available at other firms.
5. The Long Hours are Damaging your Health
Whilst long hours can be part and parcel of a career in law, they should not be a permanent state. Consider whether the long hours you are doing are related to a lack of support staff or resources. Is the firm investing in the health of its people? Are you able to take time off to recharge when you need to?
6. You are not Feeling Valued
Are you being compensated at current market value? Whilst changing jobs should never be just about the salary, you can enjoy a bump in pay even by moving laterally to a new firm. Some companies are even offering sign-on bonuses to help seal the deal.
7. Your Mental Health is Suffering
Many factors can have an impact on your mental health during the course of your legal career. These include long hours, challenging office politics, the continued uncertainty of a particular outcome or facing emotionally challenging matters or disputes on a regular basis. Looking after your well-being and mental health is a critical part of maintaining longevity in your career. If your current firm is not actively checking in, following up and offering wellness programs it is time to consider other firms.
8. Your Firm Demands that you Work Full-Time in the Office
A small number of firms are now requesting all staff return to the office under pre-existing working arrangements. This will not suit everyone. You may have found that working from home part of the week suits your lifestyle and your other commitments, or that you are more productive with online meetings and without the need to commute. Many of our clients are offering flexibility in new roles including a hybrid work from home/ work from the office model, staggered hours and the opportunity to take or purchase extended leave.
Are any of these signs jumping out at you? Be honest, how many?
We understand reluctance to explore new roles, but are you not selling yourself and your future short if you do not at least explore the possibilities? You might have an exciting world in front of you full of interesting, challenging and fulfilling work…. All you have to do, is take the first step. Have a confidential career conversation today with one of our experienced, specialist legal recruiters. We really can help.
If you are looking for a new role in the Legal Industry in Melbourne, Australia, then get in touch with us. Legal People is the gateway to your next career move. We are specialists in the Legal Industry and recruit Lawyers, Support staff and HR professionals. If you enjoyed reading this article, you can follow our Company Page on LinkedIn for regular updates. To browse our currently available roles click here.
