Over the past few weeks, I’ve spoken with a number of associates at different stages of their careers about how they are thinking about the market.
A common theme has been uncertainty around timing. Most are not actively looking to move, but there is a clear desire to better understand where they stand — how their experience compares, what opportunities exist, and when the right time to explore a move might be.
The strongest career moves are rarely reactive. More often, they are made by lawyers who have taken the time to understand their position early and can act with clarity when the right opportunity presents itself.
For lawyers thinking about their longer-term progression, there are three practical considerations that can be helpful:
1. Understand how your experience translates externally
It’s important to have a clear sense of how your current experience is perceived beyond your firm. This includes the type of matters you’ve worked on, your level of responsibility, and the strength of your training. Small differences in exposure can have a meaningful impact on the opportunities available to you.
2. Consider your trajectory, not just your current role
Career decisions are rarely about your current position alone. The more important question is where your current platform is likely to lead. Consider the quality of work, the partners you are learning from, and the progression opportunities available over the next two to three years.
3. Stay informed, even if you’re not actively looking
Understanding the market does not mean committing to a move. However, staying informed allows you to recognise the right opportunity when it arises. Lawyers who have early visibility tend to be better positioned to make confident, well-timed decisions.
Ultimately, career progression is rarely linear. Having a clear view of your position in the market allows you to approach decisions with intent, rather than urgency, and to make moves that support your longer-term goals.
