Leverage For Lawyers

Posted by Elizabeth Zelinka

In working with laid off lawyers, I am aware of that most are attacking this problem the same way that they’ve been trained to find answers in their legal practice.  I can sum it up in a word: solitary research.

 Most are madly searching the internet for postings, advice, information and resources to address their increasingly urgent situation.  They are trained to sift through enormous amounts of information, synthesizing, analyzing, absorbing and otherwise getting answers.  Right now, they need a job, and they need it fast.  Seems simple enough—keep researching and answers will come.

 Add to the research habit the fact this whole situation is somewhat embarrassing (even though it is not) and you have a perfect recipe for complete isolation.  And complete isolation is the worst possible condition for any lawyer who has been laid off.

 Now is the time to get out there and be with people.  Your best chance at a position or opportunity is through your own network and relationships.  Your best chance at keeping your spirits high is to stay energized by meeting with people, talking with similarly-situated professionals, getting advice and generating interesting ideas and options.

 So if you are sitting in front of your computer right now for the third week (or even day) in a row, make a call or set a meeting.  Challenge yourself to stay connected to anyone and everyone you can.  If you get out there, things will happen.

 Elizabeth Zelinka is a Strategic Growth Consultant and Career Coach with Zelinka & Prince Search Partners.  She can be reached through her website at http://zpsearchpartners.com.

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