There are Two Types of Lawyers!!

In the fiercely competitive world of law, a stark dichotomy exists: there are those who get what they want, and those who get what they are given.

This isn’t a matter of luck or mere circumstance; it’s the result of a distinct mindset, strategic choices, and an unyielding commitment to excellence.

This article delves deep into these two archetypes, providing insights, practical tips, and thought-provoking perspectives to help you understand which type of lawyer you are and which you want to become.

The Go-Getters: Lawyers Who Get What They Want

To start, let’s talk about the lawyers who get what they want. These are the professionals who are not only masters of their craft but also adept at navigating the intricate corridors of power within their firms and the legal industry at large. They are the rainmakers, the influencers, and the game-changers. They don’t wait for opportunities to come to them; they create opportunities.

Mindset Matters

The cornerstone of a successful legal career is mindset. Lawyers who get what they want exhibit a growth mindset. They view challenges as opportunities to grow and are constantly seeking ways to expand their skills and knowledge.

🔍 Practical Tip: Embrace continuous learning. Whether it’s attending industry conferences, enrolling in advanced legal courses, or seeking mentorship from esteemed colleagues, always be in a state of learning.

Strategic Networking

Successful lawyers understand the importance of building and maintaining a robust professional network. They know that who you know can be just as important as what you know.

🤝 Practical Tip: Invest time in networking both within and outside your firm. Join professional associations, attend legal seminars, and engage in social events where you can meet influential figures in the legal field.

Leveraging Personal Branding

In today’s digital age, personal branding is more critical than ever. Lawyers who get what they want are those who have built a strong personal brand that highlights their expertise, values, and unique selling points.

📱 Practical Tip: Use social media platforms like LinkedIn to share insights, publish articles, and connect with peers. Your online presence should reflect your professional accomplishments and thought leadership.

Client-Centric Approach

Top lawyers put their clients at the centre of their practice. They understand that providing exceptional client service not only helps retain existing clients but also attracts new ones through referrals and positive word-of-mouth.

📝 Practical Tip: Regularly solicit feedback from your clients and be proactive in addressing their concerns. Going the extra mile to ensure client satisfaction can set you apart from the competition.

The Complacent: Lawyers Who Get What They Are Given

On the flip side, there are lawyers who get what they are given. These professionals often find themselves stagnating in their careers, waiting for the next case, the next promotion, or the next opportunity to be handed to them. They tend to operate within their comfort zones and may lack the initiative to drive their careers forward proactively.

The Comfort Zone Trap

Lawyers who get what they are given often fall into the comfort zone trap. They do what is expected of them and nothing more. While they may perform adequately, they rarely push the boundaries of their potential.

🚨 Practical Tip: Identify areas where you can challenge yourself. Take on cases that stretch your abilities, seek out leadership roles within your firm, and set ambitious career goals.

Reactive vs. Proactive

These lawyers tend to be reactive rather than proactive. They respond to situations as they arise but do not actively seek out opportunities for growth and advancement.

🔄 Practical Tip: Shift from a reactive to a proactive approach. Regularly review your career progress, set actionable goals, and pursue opportunities that align with your long-term career aspirations.

Lack of Strategic Vision

A common trait among lawyers who get what they are given is the absence of a strategic vision for their careers. Without a clear plan, they can easily become directionless, moving wherever the currents of their firm’s needs take them.

🔍 Practical Tip: Develop a strategic career plan. Outline your career objectives, identify the skills and experiences you need to achieve them, and create a roadmap to guide your professional journey.

The Importance of Self-Advocacy

Lawyers who get what they are given often fail to advocate for themselves effectively. They may assume that hard work alone will lead to recognition and advancement, but in reality, visibility and self-promotion are equally important.

📣 Practical Tip: Don’t shy away from highlighting your achievements and contributions. Regularly communicate your successes to your superiors and colleagues, and seek out opportunities to showcase your expertise.

Career Advancement: Bridging the Gap

So, how can a lawyer transition from being one who gets what they are given to one who gets what they want? Here are some key strategies:

Embrace Continuous Improvement

Never stop improving your skills and expanding your knowledge base. The legal landscape is constantly evolving, and staying ahead requires a commitment to lifelong learning.

🔧 Practical Tip: Dedicate time each week to professional development. Whether it’s reading legal journals, taking online courses, or attending workshops, make continuous improvement a priority.

Seek Mentorship

Mentorship can be a powerful tool for career advancement. A mentor can provide valuable guidance, insights, and support as you navigate your career path.

👥 Practical Tip: Identify potential mentors within your firm or professional network and approach them with a clear proposal for a mentorship relationship. Be proactive in seeking their advice and feedback.

Develop a Personal Brand

Your personal brand is a reflection of your professional identity. It’s how you present yourself to the world and how others perceive you.

🌐 Practical Tip: Create a personal branding strategy that highlights your unique strengths and differentiates you from your peers. Use online platforms to share your expertise and engage with the legal community.

Take Calculated Risks

Success often requires taking risks. Whether it’s accepting a challenging case, pursuing a new practice area, or seeking a leadership role, calculated risks can lead to significant career growth.

🎯 Practical Tip: Assess the potential benefits and drawbacks of each risk and make informed decisions. Don’t let fear of failure hold you back from pursuing opportunities that align with your career goals.

Becoming a Lawyer Who Gets What They Want: A Case Study

Let’s consider the case of Sarah, a lawyer who transitioned from getting what she was given to getting what she wanted. When Sarah started her career, she followed the traditional path, doing what was expected of her and waiting for opportunities to come her way. However, she soon realized that this approach was limiting her growth.

Sarah decided to take control of her career. She sought out challenging cases that allowed her to showcase her skills and took on leadership roles within her firm. She also invested time in building her personal brand, sharing her expertise through articles on social media and speaking engagements. Additionally, Sarah cultivated a strong professional network, which opened doors to new opportunities.

Today, Sarah is a partner at a prestigious firm, known for her expertise and influential presence in the legal community. Her journey demonstrates that with the right mindset and strategies, it is possible to transform your career and achieve your professional aspirations.

Final Thoughts: Choosing Your Path

The choice between being a lawyer who gets what they want and one who gets what they are given ultimately comes down to your mindset, actions, and strategic decisions. While it’s easy to fall into complacency, the rewards of taking control of your career are immense. By adopting a proactive approach, building a strong personal brand, and continuously seeking opportunities for growth, you can position yourself as a leader in the legal field.

In the words of the renowned lawyer Clarence Darrow, “The only real lawyers are trial lawyers, and trial lawyers try cases to juries.” This quote serves as a reminder that success in law isn’t just about knowledge; it’s about action and impact.

If you are currently working for a Legal 500 ranked firm as a partner and are looking for career advice, I invite you to get in touch with me at tariq.sheikh@tattonsheikh.com. Let’s work together to unlock your full potential and help you get what you truly deserve in your career.

By following these guidelines and insights, you can transition from being a lawyer who gets what they are given to one who gets what they want, achieving unparalleled success and recognition in your legal career. The journey may be challenging, but the rewards are worth it. So, take control, stay proactive, and watch your career soar.