Top Law Schools

I am leaving a relatively small corporate practice group after eight months. I’ve done good work and have, I believe, made some good connections. That being said, the opportunity I have seems worth making a jump. I know the partners will be shocked since I’m new, and some may be disgruntled that I’m joining an indirect competitor. Any thoughts on how to leave? I worry that not explaining myself will make me look bad, but giving too much info could also backfire.

you’ve been at your firm for only 8 months and are leaving already. I honestly doubt you will be able to preserve those relationships.

From a networking perspective, it sounds like you might just have to consider this a wash. Agreed with the poster above. 8 months just isn’t enough time.

In a couple of years no one is even going to remember you unless you do something spectacularly stupid on the way out the door, so I would just try and make as few waves as possible. If there's a partner you trust, you could try to get them to help smooth things over with anyone else, but don't give them any negative information (leaving because you don't like the work, you hate a certain partner, aren't paid enough, etc.). Focus ONLY on the positives about the new job (it was a really good opportunity you couldn't pass up) AND the positives about the job you're leaving (you've appreciated all their mentoring, couldn't have asked for a better group of people to work with, etc.) (within limits - don't brown nose too much, obviously you're leaving the job for a reason).