Big Law Life #63: How to Identify Good Mentors in BigLaw
In today’s episode, I dive into one of the most common challenges for lawyers in large law firms—finding the right mentor. It's a common problem as formal mentoring programs may fall short of providing meaningful guidance, it can be hard to find mentors with the time to really connect with you, and figuring out who is best to help you navigate the particular hurdles you're facing in your work life isn't always clear. In this episode discuss how to identify the potential mentors both inside and outside your firm, how to approach them, and how to cultivate a valuable, long-term mentoring relationship. Whether you’re looking for guidance on firm politics, client relationships, or business development, identifying the right kind of mentor is truly important.
I share practical strategies for seeking out mentors who can provide specific, actionable advice—no vague career tips or generic feedback. If you’ve ever struggled to find someone who truly supports your professional growth, this episode will give you a roadmap for making those crucial connections.
At a Glance:
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00:00 Introduction to Big Law Life and how to approach mentoring in Big Law
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01:20 Why formal mentoring programs often fall short
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02:08 How to identify lawyers who could be strong mentors
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03:39 The importance of observing how senior lawyers communicate, give feedback, and handle client relationships
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05:18 Learning from lawyers who explain complex concepts clearly and concisely
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06:34 Don’t limit yourself. Mentors don’t have to look like you or share your background
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07:25 Building an organic relationship instead of asking outright for mentorship
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09:07 Making yourself available and showing initiative in seeking mentorship
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10:40 Why a single mentor may not meet all your needs & the importance of building a network of mentors
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12:15 The value of external mentors and non-lawyer advisors
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14:10 How to approach busy lawyers and ask for guidance without overstepping
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15:32 Maintaining and nurturing your mentor relationships over time
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17:02 How to stay visible to your mentor without becoming a burden
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18:24 A strategic approach to checking in with mentors and keeping them engaged
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19:08 Acknowledging and appreciating your mentor’s time and contributions
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19:39 Why recognizing your mentor’s help strengthens the relationship
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20:05 Closing thoughts on the importance of mentorship in Big Law
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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
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Show notes: https://www.lauraterrell.com/podcast