Legal Career Options in a Tough Economy

The Boston Globe ran an article on starting and improving your legal career in a tough economy. As they mention we can scale back expectations somewhat as far as salary or our hourly rates.

A couple of strategies that they did not mention are networking and professional development. If your billables are down, mixing with the right group of people to bring you direct business or referrals would be a great investment of time right now. Also, if you are normally too busy to cultivate long term relationships to aid your career and business, but have time now, take advantage of the opportunity.

Professional and personal development are other ways you could constructively use any time normally occupied by a higher pressure position or more clients. Position your yourself to rocket your career and business forward as the economy recovers. Personally, recharge yourself and reinforce those personal relationships. Get into shape if that is a goal.

Options for professional development may be as straightforward as reading a book and taking notes to see how it can aid you in your practice. Write an article for a trade or bar journal. Take a class. Keep a journal. Work with a coach to design your career and business and meet your goals.

However difficult the current environment may be, it presents many opportunities. Develop a strategy to make the most of it.

Dr. Shaun Jamison is a Business and Life Coach, Law Professor, and Speaker. He can be found on the web at www.guideonyourside.com.

When the Situation Looks Bad

There is no doubt that these are tough economic times for many. The gas prices don't help as they drive up the price of some commodities so high, many individuals and businesses cannot keep up with expenses.

So what strategies can we use to avoid being overwhelmed by our circumstances?

Adjust Short Term Strategies: We cannot ignore the fact that goods and services cost more and maybe we are making less money. Scale back on unnecessary expenses. When you splurge, "make it count." Consider additional sources of income. Review expenses to see what can be cut either permanently or temporarily.

Look for the "Upside!" Fewer people are on the road these days at any given time due to the price of gas. This has led to a fewer traffic deaths. It means lower demand for gas and less damage to the environment. Businesses and government will have to be even more efficient. If we rise to the challenge of tough times, we will learn new skills and apply our creativity. During low times, the career education market expands. Consider retooling your skills or starting a career in education or people development.

Look Long Term: Markets move in cycles. Solid investments and careers will likely survive. Review what you have invested your finances and yourself into. Does it have staying power? If yes, then you are likely in the right place and you can wait out the storm. If you are not risk adverse, this would be a good time to invest in emerging fields.

Keep a Positive Attitude: Worrying about the economy won't change the economy. Do what you need to do to remain as secure as you can be and then live your life.

Peace,

Shaun Jamison
www.guideonyourside.com