If you are reading this, you already know you want to make partner. The only question now is how do you prepare for it?
Here are some tips:
1. Make sure you are hitting your numbers and achieving your set targets
It doesn't matter whether you already think like a partner or are a good team leader. If you do not have a track record for achieving KPIs and billable hours, chances are, the people who are will be considered first.
Tip: Display your KPIs around your workspace to have them as constant reminders.
2. Become known as a good team player
The greatest achievement for any lawyer is to be seen as a great lawyer by their peers. To make yourself noticed, be cordial to everyone and pay particular attention to your relationships with your clients. Take the time to appreciate everyone you work with or assist with your day. A small "Thank you" goes a long way. Think outside the box to propose innovative ideas for improving firm operations or expanding services and be proactive in identifying and solving problems within the firm. This is key to proving to them that you are a valuable asset and team player.
3. Know your sector
Go above and beyond to have an intimate familiarity with the sector in which you operate. Within this sector, understand your key strengths and use these to map out your key clients and target market. To resonate with this market, understand what drives your clients and hone the skills you have to shape yourself as a trusted advisor and voice of authority to your clients.
4. Be vocal about your ambitions
Telling your partners you are interested in progressing upwards can be intimidating, but you should still do it. To avoid coming off as pushy or arrogant, ask the partner a couple of questions like:
- How do you think I am performing?
- Where can I improve?
- What do you think about my potential so far?
These questions underscore that you are interested in progressing.
5. Know the process of how to become a partner
As the saying goes, "fail to plan, plan to fail." Likewise, if you are planning on becoming a partner, it's essential to learn the technical details of what is required. Some law firms provide this information readily; however, if you can't find it, visit your HR manager, and they will be more than happy to share this information with you.
6. Create your business case to make partner in your firm
To make your case for partnership, your argument needs to be both charming and financially convincing. When considering candidates for partnership, most firms will ask you to submit a business case. Most firms will have their own set of certain requirements. Start to think about your case in early and plan for success.
7. Get a formal structure in place
At Herbert Smith Freehills, the firm has a Potential Partner Development Centre, which is run over two years and involves staff developing a business case for their promotion, and the promotion to partner panel is the formal process for assessing new partners.
Ashurst runs an emerging leaders program between September and December where senior lawyers are assisted with their business plan.
The above programs place formal structures around the partner you aspire to be and help guide you to learning those mandatory skills. Ultimately, in order to become partner, you need buy in from others (sell others on you and your skills), your firm and your team. Programs such as these give you the confidence you need so that on your first day as partner, you can hit the ground running.
8. Seek feedback and improvement
Solicit feedback from partners and colleagues to identify areas for improvement and act on constructive criticism to enhance your skills and performance.
9. Use social media!
This may seem like an unusual tip, but social media has the ability to really help you stand out amongst potential partner candidates, particularly if you're using LinkedIn to connect with the right people who may advocate for you as partner. LinkedIn also has the opportunity to create articles – this can be a powerful tool to build a following and shape yourself as a voice of authority.
Becoming a partner at a law firm is a competitive and often lengthy process. It's essential to consistently demonstrate your value to the firm, both in terms of legal skills and business development abilities. Building strong relationships, achieving financial success, and showcasing your unique qualities will increase your chances of success.
To further discuss the path to partnership, don’t hesitate to contact us on info@sonderconsultants.com
