Big Law Life #77: Missed Opportunities for BigLaw Associates
In Big Law, doing what is asked of you is expected—what sets you apart is how you show up beyond that. In this episode, I talk about the silent missteps that hold many associates back, from treating assignments as isolated tasks to assuming visibility and feedback will come without asking. I walk through real examples of how missed context, lack of sufficient follow-through, and playing it safe can quietly stall your career, even if you’re billing plenty of hours and meeting expectations on paper.
For lawyers early in their Big Law career, who want to move from competent to highly valued, this episode breaks down what it really takes to build momentum, reputation, and trust with senior lawyers. I share exactly what I looked for when I managed associates, and the small signals that showed me who is thinking like a future partner. If you’ve ever wondered whether doing the work and getting good evaluations is enough, this conversation will give you a more indepth view of how top associates stand out—and how to make sure you’re one of them.
At a Glance: 00:00 Why lawyering well isn’t enough in Big Law 01:20 The mistake of keeping your head down and assuming no feedback is good feedback 02:10 Assignments are not tasks, they’re tests of judgment and strategic thinking 03:02 Why doing only what is asked can fail to advance your career 04:04 When failing to raise key issues can suggest you lack judgment 05:09 Why thoughtful questions show strength, not weakness 06:02 The danger of treating assignments like schoolwork with a finish line 06:48 How silence makes you forgettable and how to avoid it 07:09 What asking for feedback really signals to partners 07:51 The growth that only happens when you reach beyond your comfort zone 08:49 Specific examples: secondments, cross-border teams, and fast-moving deals 09:37 The importance of internal visibility beyond billables 10:16 Why Big Law isn’t built for associates who operate in isolation 10:44 How disengagement quietly damages your reputation over time 11:13 Why initiative matters more than raw competence 11:40 Final thoughts: what Big Law actually rewards
Rate, Review, & Follow on Apple Podcasts & Spotify
Do you enjoy listening to Big Law Life? Please consider rating and reviewing the show! This helps support and reach more people like you who want to grow a career in Big Law.
For Apple Podcasts, click here, scroll to the bottom, tap to rate with five stars, and select “Write a Review.” Then be sure to let me know what you loved most about the episode! Also, if you haven’t done so already, follow the podcast here!
For Spotify, tap here on your mobile phone, follow the podcast, listen to the show, then find the rating icon below the description, and tap to rate with five stars.
Interested in doing 1-2-1 coaching with Laura Terrell? Or learning more about her work coaching and consulting? Here are ways to reach out to her:
laura@lauraterrell.com
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/lauralterrell/
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/lauraterrellcoaching/
Show notes: https://www.lauraterrell.com/podcast