Relax — and Elevate Your Legal Career This Summer

 

By Jamy J. Sullivan, JD, Robert Half

Question:

I’m looking forward to my summer vacation to relax but also to work on my career plan. Any advice on how best to do this while I’m away from the office and during the summer season?

 

Answer:

In the hustle and bustle of legal practice, summer vacations are often seen as a time to disconnect from professional concerns. But you’re smart to want to also use the time to boost your career plan and sharpen your skills. Here are some ideas. 

Cultivate your professional network

You’d be surprised how many people are open for a leisurely lunch or an informative coffee break in the relaxed summer months. Moreover, summer brims with social events—concerts, fitness classes, outdoor gatherings — that can double as casual networking spaces where you can learn of emerging trends in the legal field and also perhaps career opportunities. 

Remember that networking is more than just trading LinkedIn invites. Approach it with a genuine desire to make lasting connections. 

Enhance your skills for a professional edge

Depending on how long your vacation is, you may also want to look for workshops, conferences or training seminars relevant to your practice area that are scheduled during your vacation time.  

If not, set aside some weekly time for reading and listening. Legal journals, podcasts and on-demand webinars can be a goldmine of knowledge and fresh perspectives. 

Use the time to develop wellness routines

Summer can be an excellent time to reflect on your physical and mental well-being. It’s easier to rekindle a fitness regime, for example, when the pressures of work are reduced. This is your chance to road-test new approaches that you can integrate into your workweek.  
 
Your summer vacation can serve as a springboard to professional growth but take care not to crowd out the downtime you need to recharge. You’ll be glad when the pace picks up as you return to work. 
 

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.