Are you about to start your first summer at a law firm? The transition from law school to legal practice can feel like crossing a suspension bridge—exciting, but potentially wobbly and uncertain. As someone who’s made this journey myself and coached others through it, I understand the unique challenges you’re facing.
In this episode, I’m addressing the common hurdles that summer students and new lawyers encounter when stepping into a law firm environment for the first time. The skills that made you successful in law school won’t necessarily translate directly to success in practice. The structured environment you’re used to—with clear deadlines, grading rubrics, and defined expectations—suddenly gives way to a more fluid landscape where the rules aren’t always clear.
I’m sharing strategies to help you navigate this transition successfully, from developing an owner’s mindset to managing shifting priorities and building confidence. Whether you’re a summer student, articling student, or junior associate, these insights will help you cross that bridge with greater confidence and purpose. I’m also inviting you to join me for two free webinars where we’ll dive deeper into these strategies.
Leadership for Women Lawyers is my six-month group coaching program dedicated to supporting women lawyers, just like you, in your practice and your personal life. Click here for more information and stay tuned for the next opportunity to register.
What You’ll Learn from this Episode:
- How to shift from a student mindset to taking ownership of your practice as a lawyer.
- How the clearly defined pathway of law school differs from the shifting landscape of law firm practice.
- How to transition from individual performance to becoming an effective team player and leader.
- The process of evolving from doing everything for the first time to becoming a trusted advisor.
- How to balance humility with projecting confidence in your new professional role.
- Strategies for managing your time effectively when juggling multiple files with shifting deadlines.
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Ways to build your support network through mentors, sponsors, and coaches as you navigate your early career.
Listen to the Full Episode:
Featured on the Show:
- Want to get in touch with me? You can do so by clicking here or reaching out to me on LinkedIn
- If you are interested in learning more about the work I do with lawyers, click here!
- Click here to grab my time management podcast roadmap!
- Click here to grab my procrastination protocol checklist!
- Download the free workbook here to level up your interview game.
- Carol Dweck’s TED Talk on Growth Mindset
- Episode 181. Optimize Your Performance Review: A 5 Step Guide for Lawyers
- Episode 183. How to Succeed as a Lateral Hire
- Episode 192. How to Prepare for Your Law Firm Job Search (Job Transition Masterclass Part 1 of 3)
- Episode 193. How to Navigate Your Law Firm Job Search and Get Hired (Job Transition Masterclass Part 2 of 3)
- Episode 194. The First 90 Days: How to Succeed in Your New Job at a Law Firm (Job Transition Masterclass Part 3 of 3)
- Sign up for the free upcoming webinars: Part 1: Pillars of Practice on Friday, May 16th (noon PT) and Part 2: Becoming a Trusted “Go-To” on Friday, May 23rd (11 am PT).
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