At the mid-level, something shifts. You start to realise which work you actually enjoy. The deals, the clients, the pace, the problems you like solving. And naturally, you want more of it.
We’re seeing this more and more. Associates are exploring the market not because they want to leave, but because the mix of work is not quite right. They want more of what they actually enjoy.
To be transparent, the perfect mix is not always achievable. Sometimes it is, but more often than not there is a compromise. A 70/30 split, for example.
If you have a clear sense of the work you enjoy and want more of, the next step is working out how to get it.
Before taking action, ask yourself the right questions. Get clear on what you actually want. Then work out whether your current firm can deliver it, or whether you need to go and find it elsewhere.
Start with these questions...
10 questions to ask yourself:
- What is the actual split of work I’m doing today?
(Not what I expect — what it really looks like week to week.) - What type of work do I enjoy most, and why?
- What split would I ideally want?
(50/50? 70/30? 80/20?) - How far away am I from that today?
- What work do I not enjoy, and how much of my time is it taking up?
- Is it realistic to reduce or limit that work in my current team?
- Who is controlling the allocation of the work I want, and am I front of mind?
- If I stay another 12 months, is that balance likely to improve, or stay the same?
- How important is getting more of the work I want compared to the other benefits my current firm offers?
- Are there firms in the market where this type of work is a bigger priority?
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If you are unsure on the depth and specifics of that last question, that is where we come in.
We can assess the market for you, break down your options, and give you a clear view of what is realistically achievable.
I have seen people move to platforms that offer a better mix of work. I have also seen people stay and successfully pivot internally. Some accept offers for more money but end up doing the same work. Others turn down opportunities that offer the work they want because they are not ready to leave behind the people and culture of their current firm.
I will say this. If you are looking to completely pivot into a new practice area where you have no experience, that is becoming more difficult. In the current market, firms are looking for specialists who can add value from day one. You are often better off making that shift internally first.
There is no single right answer. But the best outcomes come when an associate is clear on their priorities.
If the type of work you are doing is top of your list, we can help you find it and make sure your move is structured in a way that actually delivers on that.
Hopefully these questions provide a useful starting point to help you evaluate your motivations, your current firm, and your longer-term trajectory.
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