Lack of experience can also translate to openness to change
In the current legal market, the ability to take calculated risks is a critical skill that can help young lawyers to stand out.
Litigation solicitor Fayez Shahbaz, who is currently with Russell McVeagh, took one such risk when he said yes to a secondment to Meridan Energy Limited’s in-house legal team despite having limited experience in corporate law.
“On the one hand, I would lose three months of further litigation experience, lose the security blanket of continuing to work with a team that knew me and that I knew well, and I would be diving into a notoriously complex industry with limited corporate experience. On the other hand, I would develop my corporate and commercial skills, experience the challenges (and the joys) of working as an in-house counsel, and work and learn from a new team of lawyers,” he explained.
Stepping out of one’s comfort zone can be a difference maker in a lawyer’s career, helping them to grow and develop in an unexpected way.
The journey of MinterEllisonRuddWatts senior associate Suzy McMillan was in some ways the opposite of Shahbaz’s, but it was similarly impactful for her career. She made the leap from in-house to private practice initially as a short-term move, but the transition stuck – in a good way.
“I’m still here five years later and am really enjoying my current role. Sometimes taking a risk ends up being the best decision you ever made – the hardest part is taking the leap!” she said.
For new lawyers who are starting with a fresh slate, it can be the right time to grab unique opportunities, even if they don’t appear to be in line with their goals. The lack of experience and not being defined by a specific practice yet means there’s a lot of openness to change, and that can inform a new lawyer’s career direction for years to come.
