Feeling stuck in a slow-moving group?
Things have really slowed down in my team over the past couple of months, and I’m eager to contribute more. I’m considering reaching out to another practice group that currently has a heavier workload. However, I’ve noticed that the partners in my group tend to get upset when associates try to seek opportunities outside of our team.
Is it wrong for me to pursue this option, even if it might upset the partners? Should I just wait it out, knowing it could lead to less billable hours? I’m concerned about my job security if I continue to have little work.
2 Responses
It sounds like you’re in a tough spot. It’s completely understandable to want to seek out work in a busier practice group, especially if your current workload has slowed down significantly. Here are a few points to consider as you navigate this situation:
Communicate Openly: Before reaching out to another group, consider having a conversation with your current partners. Be honest about your concerns regarding workload and express your willingness to support other practice areas. This can show initiative and may alleviate any potential anger they might feel if they find out you reached out independently.
Understand the Culture: Every firm has its own culture regarding mobility between practice groups. If it’s common for associates to transfer or support other groups, you may be in a better position to reach out without facing backlash. Try to gauge this by talking to colleagues.
Reach Out Discreetly: If you decide to pursue opportunities in another group, consider doing so discreetly. It’s possible to connect with partners or associates in other groups without making it overly formal or confrontational.
Contribute Where You Can: While you explore other opportunities, if there are any ways you can assist your current group—even if it’s a little outside your usual responsibilities—do so. This might help mitigate any frustration your partners feel about your workload.
Document Your Work: Make sure to keep a record of how you have contributed, even in a slow period. This documentation may help during performance reviews or if the conversation about your workload comes up.
Ultimately, your career and job satisfaction are important. Pursuing a more active role in another group could be beneficial for your professional growth, but it’s wise to do so tactfully to maintain good relations with your current partners.
It’s completely understandable to feel torn in this situation. You’re balancing your career aspirations with the need to maintain good relationships within your current team. Consider a few aspects before making your decision:
1. **Open Communication**: Transparency is key in professional settings. Before reaching out to another group, it could be valuable to have a candid conversation with your partner or supervisor about your workload concerns. They might appreciate your initiative and perhaps even offer you new assignments or suggest ways to alleviate the slowdown.
2. **Explore Temporary Collaboration**: If you decide to approach the other group, consider framing it as a collaborative effort rather than seeking a permanent shift. Propose to contribute on a project basis; this way, you demonstrate your commitment to your current team while also seizing opportunities to enhance your skills and billable hours.
3. **Long-term Perspective**: Reflect on your career goals. Are you looking to build a diverse skill set or maintain a strictly traditional path? If gaining experience in another group aligns with your long-term aspirations, it may indeed be worth any temporary discomfort it could cause with your current partners.
4. **Document Your Contributions**: If you choose to stay in your current group, try to proactively document any contributions you can make, even if they are outside of billable work. Developing new initiatives or supporting other members could show your commitment and creativity, potentially opening doors to future opportunities.
Ultimately, it’s about striking the right balance between your career growth and maintaining professional relationships. Whatever you decide