The No Club
There may be male lawyers reading this who’ll say “I’ve done loads of this type of thing over the years!” To which I say, good for you! I’ve just rarely seen this myself in my 20 year career.
The real problem of non-promotable work is that it’s, well, non-promotable. You’ll spend the same time doing the work as you could have spent doing chargeable work that counts towards your annual targets i.e. things the promotion committee actually care about.
When is the best time to have a baby in your legal career?
This is a bit of a loaded subject. However, it’s one that male lawyers don’t need to think about to the same degree and so it’s definitely one for the Female Lawyers’ Club to discuss.
I’ve set out my thoughts, plus those of seven female lawyer friends who have kindly contributed.
Will I ever know enough?
I was acutely conscious at the beginning of how little I knew. How was I supposed to advise people and appear competent given my lack of knowledge and experience? Like learning to drive, my journey into law took a while.
Lost in Wales
This is a really important concept. In measuring yourself not against the “gap” (your distance from where you ultimately want to be) but instead against the “gain” (your progress from your initial starting point) you will be reminded you of how far you’ve come. This simple mindset shift will help you to enjoy your success now, rather than constantly feeling as though you are not good enough.
Lonely… Me?
I have a suggestion: let’s have a regular community chat. By video so we can see each other (although not as good as in person, granted). We can check in on each other, say hi, share good news, vent about terrible clients, recommend books, films, whatever comes up… It can be a drop-in session and if you can make it, great; if you can’t, absolutely fine. Come late or leave early - you’ll be welcome any time.