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Career Guidance

Career Guidance

6/8/2009 12:06:49 AM EST

Establishing Work Ethic

Posted by LexisHub Staff

At the National Association of Women Lawyers Backpack to Briefcase program held at Loyola University School of Law in Chicago, a panel of distinguished women legal professionals advised the attendees on ways in which to establish a work ethic in a law firm setting. Following is a synopsis of their comments:

Kim Klein: Understand the hierarchy in your firm. You are going to be the junior person, and you need to pay your dues. You need to accept the fact that in the beginning, you will be performing the least “sexy” work. Refrain from complaining about this because every first and second year associate is in the same situation. Although in law school, everyone is collegial, in a law firm, your clients rule your world, followed by senior partners, junior partners, and senior associates.

Dorothy Capers: Begin giving results on your first day on the job. You need to create solutions, not take problems to the senior people in the office. Hit the ground running: even if you aren’t perfect, if you are willing to step up to the plate, you will impress. Speak at various events, and write. Sell yourself. Arrive at the office on time, and don’t leave early.

Carolyn Clift: Demonstrate outstanding professional competence. Be prepared to make sacrifices because time and energy are required. Get the job done, and do a little bit more than is expected or required. Above all, to thine own self be true. You need to know what you are willing to do to get what you want. Aspire to more than just having a job. Show that you are dependable but that you can reach out to resources when necessary. Attorneys in the firm should feel confident when giving you an assignment that you are capable of doing it.

Josie Gough: Work smart in addition to working hard. Become proficient at listening in addition to speaking. Go to hearings early and watch what other attorneys are doing so that you can pick up what is good and discard what is not. Learn your judges and what they like. When in court, make a record for your client. Be good to your community and to your bar association. Even if you are a zealous advocate, be professional and agreeable.