I am a mid-level and am nearing senior associate status. I’m not that happy at my current firm, but I really don’t want to look for yet another firm position. I prefer to go in-house, but I understand that market is very competitive right now, and I think my chances are low as I haven’t done a lot of higher level work. What should I do?
Answer:
If you want to go in-house, then you really need to think about the kind of in-house position you want. If it’s a position that would involve a skill-set you haven’t really developed, then you need to position yourself to obtain that skill-set somehow.You can work on obtaining this experience at your current firm by asking for more complex work, changing sections, volunteering to work for different partners, or obtaining new clients that would allow you to expand your practice. If that’s impossible, then you really should think about joining another firm that would get you the experience you need to make yourself an attractive in-house candidate.
If you do want to consider a lateral move before going in-house, I think it’s also important to think about the kinds of clients another firm might serve. These clients often can provide you with future in-house opportunities. Many mid-level and senior associates leave their firms to join existing clients as in-house counsel. Once you have a relationship with a client, you can use this as a springboard to possibly join their company.
Bear in mind that the attorneys that have the easiest time finding in-house positions are also the ones that really tap into their connections, who network often, who speak regularly on topics before clients, and who are active in business development.
