Should I Try to Lateral? Forum

[Anonymous User]

I have been practicing corporate & real estate law at a highly regarded, mid-size firm for 2 years this October. I have a really great set-up overall. I make low 6-figures, work a pretty consistent 7:30 am -5:30 pm during the week and work few weekends.

My husband is currently doing his medical residency and will be applying for fellowships in about a year. It's very possible, if not probable, that we will need to relocate in 2 years. Although my current firm would set me up for good exit options in my city, I'm becoming concerned that having a regional name on my resume will make job hunting difficult if I move elsewhere. (If relevant, I graduated top 15% at a Top 20.)

Recruiters have started calling me about lateral jobs at some of the Vault 50 firms in my city. I'm not crazy about the significant lifestyle change I would be dealing with, but I would feel more comfortable about my future job prospects.

Any thoughts on what I should do? Any other factors I should be considering? Recommendations from anyone who has had to change markets?

[Anonymous User]

I have been practicing corporate & real estate law at a highly regarded, mid-size firm for 2 years this October. I have a really great set-up overall. I make low 6-figures, work a pretty consistent 7:30 am -5:30 pm during the week and work few weekends.

My husband is currently doing his medical residency and will be applying for fellowships in about a year. It's very possible, if not probable, that we will need to relocate in 2 years. Although my current firm would set me up for good exit options in my city, I'm becoming concerned that having a regional name on my resume will make job hunting difficult if I move elsewhere. (If relevant, I graduated top 15% at a Top 20.)

Recruiters have started calling me about lateral jobs at some of the Vault 50 firms in my city. I'm not crazy about the significant lifestyle change I would be dealing with, but I would feel more comfortable about my future job prospects.

Any thoughts on what I should do? Any other factors I should be considering? Recommendations from anyone who has had to change markets?

Fellowships are usually a year, right? Many people opt not to pick up their entire life for a temporary career move. Do you think wherever he does his fellowship is where you’ll end up for good? Given your credentials, I don’t think that you’ll struggle to find a job even if your current firm isn’t a heavy hitter. Just like headhunters are calling about lateral opportunities now, those opportunities are likely to still exist as you further develop your skill set over the next two years (possibly even moreso). I don’t think I’d make myself miserable for 2 years it what you’re curently doing is giving you the lifestyle you want and the opportunities you need to learn and grow.

[tier4_partner]

Recruiters will be calling you next year too. I wouldn’t jump to make a move right now.

[Anonymous User]

Fellowships are usually a year, right?

Medical fellowships are longer. Some are 2 years. Many are 3 years. Though this is dependent on specialty.