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You’re likely reading this because you want to forge a career in a law firm. There are many career options for someone that wants to work in law, and it’s no secret that “getting your foot in the door” with a prominent law firm will offer numerous advantages.
The trouble is, some eager people unwittingly make common mistakes during those crucial early stages of their legal careers. As a result, they could end up delaying or even stopping their progress in law before it’s even had a real chance to begin!
Here are the mistakes that you should avoid and keep in mind if you plan to forge a successful law career from the moment you start your first job in a law firm:
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Not Learning About the Key Players
It’s no secret that each town and even state has prominent law firms that are firmly established key players in law. When you start a law career, you may or may not end up working with such firms.
You should avoid not doing any research on those big names in the legal industry in any event. At some stage of your career, you will inevitably liaise or even get offered employment working with Zarwin Baum lawsuit experts or even Cravath, Swaine & Moore!
When forging a career in law, take the time to learn and memorize the names of the best law firms.
Not Being Kind and Courteous to People You Meet
When you begin working at a law firm, you will undoubtedly treat the partners and senior attorneys with respect. However, you should equally be kind and courteous to other people you work with each day.
If you’re wondering why you should go to such efforts, the answer is simple. Becoming a law firm partner or senior attorney is something you aspire to be. But, it’s the other people in the law firm that will help you achieve success in your legal career.
Besides those facts, treating everyone you meet with respect lets your professionalism shine through and impress people.
Not Dressing Like a Lawyer
There’s no denying that launching a legal career means you will need to act professionally at all times. If you don’t dress as a lawyer should, how can you expect your peers or even potential clients to take you seriously?
Working in a law firm demands professionalism at all times, from both the way you talk to people to your appearance. Be sure to dress appropriately, and you’ll increase your chances of impressing the people that matter to your career.
Not Having a Mentor
Lastly, when you first start in a law firm, you’ll undoubtedly have times where you simply haven’t a clue about specific subjects. It’s okay to admit that you don’t know or understand particular topics.
However, you should have a mentor such as a senior lawyer that can help guide you through topics where you lack relevant knowledge and experience. The mentor you choose should be someone you can fully trust and help you build your confidence.
