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Lawyers Weekly
Timesheets and long working hours are the standout contributors to a low level of job satisfaction, but there are some useful strategies lawyers can utilise to eventually achieve their dream…
Timesheets and long working hours are the standout contributors to a low level of job satisfaction, but there are some useful strategies lawyers can utilise to eventually achieve their dream job.
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"Over the years I've heard many people talking about finding their dream job. But most candidates have no idea what their dream job is, let alone how to find it," says Hays Legal director Darren Buchanan.
While there are no quick or easy answers, Buchanan says there are a few things lawyers can do to help themselves.
The first step they should take is to list their skills.
"You need to think of the big picture and consider not only what professional experience you have but also your talents and your hobbies. List the things you are good at and highlight those you enjoy doing," he says.
Secondly, to help determine the most suitable role for them, Buchanan suggests lawyers consider their personality.
"Think about your personality traits. Are you meticulous with an eye for detail or are you strategic with a big picture view?" he says.
Another important step in the process, according to Buchanan, is for lawyers to determine what is most important in terms of their career and values.
"Are you looking for a career that challenges and rewards you? Should it be something you're passionate about and inspired by?"
Just as important, according to Buchanan, is for lawyers to identify what's not their dream job.
"You should not only think about what type of roles but also what things you are not willing to compromise on, such as hours worked, pay and location," he says.
"Consider also your values in this context - for example your dream job wouldn't take you away from the things that are important in your life."
The next step, says Buchanan, is for lawyers to develop a loose description of their dream job.
"Collating this information will provide you with a synopsis of who you are and will help you determine your dream job. Once you know what your dream job is, you just need to develop a plan to get it," he says.
To get there, Buchanan suggests researching the knowledge and skills required for the dream job; networking and getting to know the people in the field and taking action such as training or updating the resume.
