08.31.09
Q: I am a second year associate in a medium sized firm. I have not been able to meet my billable hours targets this year and am getting very stressed out about that. What can I do?
A: This has been a tough year for many associates (and partners) to meet their hours, so know that you are not alone and try to keep your concern in perspective. There will be lean years in your career and there will be years when you exceed the targets and balance out the leaner years. During slow times, there are proactive steps you can take:
Ask the attorneys in your practice area, even those who do not typically give you assignments, if they have any projects that you can work on. Then ask attorneys in other practice areas whether they have work with which you can assist. Asking can seem awkward, but as a second year associate, you have the advantage of being able to open the conversation by mentioning that you have an interest in being exposed to other practice areas and that you would like to help out since you have the time.
If you ask and an attorney says “no”, make a note on your calendar to follow up again in two or three weeks. If that feels awkward, create an opening for follow up by asking, “Would you mind if I follow up with you in a few weeks to see if anything has changed, or to see if something may have come up that I can help out with?” Don’t give up after one try. Part of getting work is being in the right place at the right time. You have to ask… again and again and maybe even again. (Note: If your firm has a formal practice area rotational process, be sure to coordinate with the person who oversees that.)
If you are still struggling to fill your plate, offer to write an article, a client-alert, or to work on a non-billable business development project. Ask the attorneys you work with if they have any such projects that have been sitting on the back burner that could use your research and writing skills. While non-billable hours are not your first goal, they will keep you busy, keep you focused, potentially beef up your bio, provide an opportunity for others to see your work, and utilize your writing skills. Be certain to record your non-billable hours, even if your firm does not typically track them. Even non-billable hours demonstrate that you are not sitting around being idle and that you are willing to put your time to good use for the benefit of the firm.
If your firm has a pro-bono program, inquire about getting more involved. If they don’t have such a program, ask your mentor or work assignment partner whether pro-bono work might be something the firm would have an interest in. Most local bar associations have pro bono programs. Pro bono work can provide associates with direct client contact, case management opportunities, a chance to utilize a variety of legal skills, and an opportunity to make a positive difference in the community – while staying busy.
Keep a positive attitude (more on that topic in another blog post), be proactive, and remember that this too shall pass.
