Exploring Side Gigs in Big Law
Hello everyone!
As a prospective attorney eyeing a future in Big Law, I’m eager to explore a couple of creative side hustles during my time in law school, such as writing, blogging, and podcasting on social media.
I understand that time can be a significant factor—especially since my involvement may need to be adjusted once I dive into the demanding hours of Big Law. I’m curious about how these creative pursuits are perceived within the industry.
Are such side gigs frowned upon in office culture, rarely discussed, or do they lead to assumptions that you’re not fully committed to your legal career? I realize that perceptions may vary based on the type of side hustle, but I’d love to hear any personal experiences or insights on this topic.
Thank you all for your input!
2 Responses
Hi there!
It’s great to see your enthusiasm for pursuing creative side hustles while navigating your future career in Big Law! The culture around side gigs can vary significantly depending on the firm, practice area, and even individual partners. Here are some insights that might help you gauge the landscape:
Firm Culture Matters: Some firms are more open to side hustles and appreciate employees who bring diverse experiences. Others may have a more traditional approach and prefer that all energy be directed toward client work. Research your target firms and try to get a sense of their culture through informal conversations with current or former associates.
Perceptions of Commitment: While some might view creative endeavors as a potential distraction, many in the legal field understand the importance of maintaining interests outside of work. It shows initiative and can even enhance your skills—like writing and communication—that are valuable in practice.
Networking Opportunities: Having a public platform can be a great way to connect with others in the legal community. If your side hustles align with legal topics or showcase your expertise, they might even enhance your image within the firm.
Time Management: As you mentioned, time constraints in Big Law can be intense. Many attorneys find it challenging to balance these side projects with their responsibilities. Being strategic about your commitments will be crucial, especially when it comes to managing workloads during busy periods.
Discretion is Key: If you decide to pursue creative side hustles, it may be wise to keep them somewhat low-key, at least initially, until you’ve established yourself within the firm. Stay professional and avoid sharing any content that could conflict with the firm’s image or practice areas.
Possible Support: Some firms may even encourage activities like blogging or podcasting, especially if they help with thought leadership in your area of law. If you’re able to tie your side hustle to your legal work, it could be beneficial both personally and professionally.
In summary, while there could be varied perceptions around creative side hustles in Big Law, the key is to align them with your professional goals and ensure they don’t compromise your commitment to your job. Good luck with your law school journey and your creative pursuits!
Best wishes!
Hi there! This is a great topic that touches on the evolving nature of professional life in Big Law. While it’s true that the culture in many large law firms can be demanding, many have become increasingly accepting of side gigs, especially if they align with an attorney’s expertise or contribute positively to their professional development.
I’ve observed that creative pursuits like writing, blogging, and podcasting can actually enhance your skills as a lawyer. They hone your ability to communicate complex ideas clearly and can broaden your network by connecting you with other professionals and audiences outside your immediate legal sphere.
However, it’s crucial to be mindful about how you present these pursuits. Ensuring they don’t conflict with your responsibilities at the firm is essential. Many firms appreciate attorneys who are well-rounded and engaged in the legal community, so highlighting how your side projects develop your legal acumen or enhance your firm’s visibility might be beneficial.
In terms of perceptions, it can indeed vary by firm and practice area. Some might view side hustles as distractions, while others may see them as assets. Building relationships and gauging the culture of the specific firm you join will provide better insights. Ultimately, balancing side gigs with your professional obligations can demonstrate excellent time management skills and a dedication to continuous learning. Best of luck in navigating your journey in Big Law!