This is not business as usual.
Now is the time to take a hard look at your circumstances and plan your way forward out of this pandemic.
The world-wide lockdown has triggered a financial crisis the likes of which never seen. Everything depends on how long the crisis lasts. The recession will be painful, but short-lived, giving way to a robust recovery.
“I lived through 911. We got right back to it and started to rebuild. It’s not going to be business as usual. New Yorkers get that, they are resilient, innovative and smart.” — Shari Davidson, President of On Balance Search.
During this crisis, social distancing necessitates and accelerates our adopting technology, to get us back to doing business.
Telecommuting
Teleconferencing is now the new way to get things done. That’s not going to change. Congress and our Courts are going to rely on video for court appearances, closings, and other meetings.
“Tragic and scary as the Coronavirus is, like most Black Swan events, it revealed weaknesses and opportunities. We will continue to feel the pain of the weaknesses for some time to come.
One of the great opportunities to arise is the recognition and forced implementation of virtual meetings; this is a game-changer in a million ways! Adapting to how to best use it as a tool is going to determine the success or failure of many companies.” — Joe Chatham, Managing Partner and Founder of USA 500 Clubs, LLC.
What We Do Know
We have a good idea of what areas of law are going to be in high demand. The downturn will necessitate a need for bankruptcy and restructuring lawyers, divorce attorneys, there will be liability class action lawsuits and price gauging cases. And as we emerge from this crippled global economy there will be illegal discrimination cases for lay-offs and litigation to get out of commercial contracts and real estate lease agreements.
Some industries have not been as hard hit as others. Notably, Government related positions are on the uptick as a result of the COVID-19 pandemic.
Take Advantage of Downtime
- Refine your soft skills (communication styles, marketing plan etc.).
- Clean up your social media pages.
- Keep networking during this time of social distancing.
- Update your LinkedIn profile.
- Ask for recommendations.
- Join relevant groups (check out USA 500 Clubs).
- Reach out to new and existing contacts.
- Comment on people’s posts.
Work With A Legal Recruiter
Even if you haven’t been laid off or furloughed your firm may be cutting back.
That raise or promotion you were in line for is most likely not happening.
Look for a legal recruiter who is known for their integrity. Sit down with a trusted advisor who has a track record of success. When this thing starts to normalize, you’ll be well poised to get back on track.
“This is a good time to get your ducks in order. Updating your CV, getting writing samples ready, updating marketing plans etc. Create a strategic plan that is ready to execute when the time is right.” — Shari Davidson.
Your ability to rise up during this crisis will make or break your career. Research what firms and areas of the law are well suited for your unique skill set.
Work with a recruiter to help you strategize and navigate the next step in your career. You going to need to create a compelling story about your successes and the number of clients you have brought in house and the billable hours you have earned. Your legal recruiter will help you pull it all together.
During this time of uncertainty know that this is not going to be easy, there are jobs out there. Stay strong, be patient, persistent and persevere.
About On Balance Search
On Balance offers great insight and industry intelligence. Shari Davidson, president of On Balance Search Consultants, advises experienced attorneys at every stage of their career to take them to the next level. From making the lateral partner move to succession planning.
Shari takes a proactive approach to advising law firms on how to take a firm to the next level and helps rising talent make the transition to the right law firm. On Balance Search identifies opportunities that exist today, not down the road.
Contact us today. Call 516-731-3400 or visit our website at https://onbalancesearch.com.
Please note that the content of this blog does not constitute legal advice and is only intended for the educational purpose of the reader. Please consult your legal counsel for specifics regarding your specific circumstances and the laws in your states pertaining to social media and any legal restrictions regarding the law.
