In our Careers Clinic, we hand over to you, our community, to send in a question on career progression.
This month, Associate Consultant Bill Szajna-Hopgood answers this question from a lawyer who wants to be happier at work:
“I’ve been feeling increasingly dissatisfied in my role as a contentious probate solicitor over the past six months, but I’m struggling to pinpoint exactly what’s causing this frustration.
I don’t necessarily want to make a move without fully understanding what’s not working for me. Do you have any advice on how I can assess my career satisfaction, identify areas for improvement, and take steps to feel happier and more fulfilled in my role?”
If you’ve been feeling dissatisfied in your role but can’t quite put your finger on why, you’re not alone. Many solicitors reach a point in their careers where something feels off, but without a clear understanding of the root cause, it can be difficult to know what to do next. Taking the time to reflect on what’s making you unhappy—and what you truly want from your career—is the first step towards making a positive change.
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Pinpoint the Cause of Your Dissatisfaction
Since your unhappiness has built up over the past six months, think about whether anything significant has changed in your role. Ask yourself:
- Has your workload increased, leading to stress or burnout?
- Have the types of cases you’re handling changed, and do they still interest you?
- Do you feel valued and supported by your firm, or do you lack recognition and career progression?
- Has the firm culture or team dynamic shifted in a way that no longer suits you?
Self-reflection is key here. If you’re struggling to identify the issue, our Career Clarity Quiz is designed to help solicitors like you assess your current role and pinpoint what’s missing.
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Define Your Career Priorities
Once you’ve identified what’s not working, consider what matters most to you in your career. Is it progression, work-life balance, a more engaging caseload, financial reward, or a sense of purpose? If your current firm isn’t meeting these needs, it may be time to explore a role that better aligns with your goals.
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Seek Feedback and Perspective
Speaking to trusted colleagues, mentors, or even friends outside of the legal profession can offer valuable insights. Sometimes, an external perspective can highlight what’s missing or confirm something you may have already suspected about your current situation.
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Make Small Changes Before Considering a Move
If you’re unsure about leaving your firm, see if there are ways to improve your current situation:
- Workload Management: Can you delegate more or set clearer boundaries?
- New Challenges: Are there opportunities to take on more complex cases or specialise within contentious probate?
- Professional Development: Would additional training, networking, or accreditation reignite your enthusiasm for the role?
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Know When It’s Time to Move
If you’ve taken these steps and still feel unfulfilled, it may be time to consider a move. Look for a firm that aligns better with your values, offers clear progression, or provides a more engaging caseload. The right working environment can make a huge difference in job satisfaction.
Let’s Find the Right Fit for You
If you’d like to explore your options and find a firm that will truly support your career goals and happiness, I’d be happy to help. Let’s have a confidential chat about what you’re looking for and what kind of role would bring back your enthusiasm for your work. Get in touch on 03300 245 606 or email bill.szajnahopgood@realmrecruit.com
