How to Move Forward from a Career Setback

 

By Jamy J. Sullivan, JD, Robert Half

Question:

I feel that my career stalled during the pandemic and it hasn’t recovered since. Any advice on how to get back on track and accelerate my career moving forward?

 

Answer:

The pandemic turned many things upside down, legal careers included. According to Robert Half research, more than one-third of workers felt their careers took a hit during those tough times. Furthermore, nearly one in three respondents said they wanted to pursue more meaningful work post-pandemic. Here are some ways you can regain control and drive your career forward. 

Be honest with yourself

The first step is a frank self-assessment. Have you missed out on upskilling opportunities that your peers seized? An honest evaluation of your strengths and weaknesses can pave the way for targeted professional development. 

Harness past successes, but focus on the future 

Recalling a time when you scored a notable success will help you move forward with more confidence in your abilities. Perhaps you negotiated a complex settlement agreement that saved your client time and money. That moment wasn’t just a win for your client: it was a testament to your strategic thinking, negotiation skills and ability to stay cool under pressure. 
 
Harness the skills and determination you’ve shown before and imagine how to apply these qualities to overcome your setback. As a legal professional, this could mean diversifying your skill set, taking on leadership roles within your law firm or legal department, or even specializing in a new practice area or industry. 

Build a support network

Navigating this journey alone isn’t necessary — or recommended. If you have a good rapport with your manager, why not ask them for tips on stepping up your game? They’ll appreciate your proactive approach. A mentor or former coworker can also provide a pep talk and help brainstorm career strategies. Also, look for support groups or online forums designed for legal professionals looking to reenergize their careers. You could find helpful advice and new ideas.  
 
Now could be the perfect time to rekindle existing professional relationships and forge new ones. Joining your local bar association or engaging with other industry-specific groups can expose you to potential opportunities and individuals who can help you revive your career. 
 
While career setbacks can seem intimidating, they’re not insurmountable. By recalling your successes, focusing on the future and leaning on your support network, you can get your career back on an upward trajectory. 
 


Jamy J. Sullivan is executive director of the legal practice at Robert Half, the world’s first and largest specialized talent solutions firm. Robert Half offers contract, temporary and permanent placement solutions, and is the parent company of Protiviti®, a global consulting firm. Visit RobertHalf.com.