Any way to switch practice areas? Forum

[Anonymous User]

I'm a fifth year in M&A and I absolutely hate the practice. I once did white collar investigations during my summer and I actually really liked it, but when I actually got to the firm they indicated they really needed me in M&A. I had asked them a few times over the first year if I could still transfer, to no avail. Then Covid hit and I was just happy to still have a job. And of course, after a while, the M&A practice needed me more than ever. I also thought I could just weather my dislike for M&A. My parents always hated their jobs but did it because they had to do it to get by, so I felt like I couldn't complain, especially considering the salary.

Lately, I just have been so bored and simultaneously burnt out by the job that the partners are noticing my work product is slipping. I think I might still have six months left before they kick me out (unless M&A starts booming again at my office). I know I can probably find a new job in M&A if needed, but I was wondering if anyone has ever successfully switched practice areas so late in their career? I have no issues taking a severe paycut.

[Anonymous User]

I'm a fifth year in M&A and I absolutely hate the practice. I once did white collar investigations during my summer and I actually really liked it, but when I actually got to the firm they indicated they really needed me in M&A. I had asked them a few times over the first year if I could still transfer, to no avail. Then Covid hit and I was just happy to still have a job. And of course, after a while, the M&A practice needed me more than ever. I also thought I could just weather my dislike for M&A. My parents always hated their jobs but did it because they had to do it to get by, so I felt like I couldn't complain, especially considering the salary.

Lately, I just have been so bored and simultaneously burnt out by the job that the partners are noticing my work product is slipping. I think I might still have six months left before they kick me out (unless M&A starts booming again at my office). I know I can probably find a new job in M&A if needed, but I was wondering if anyone has ever successfully switched practice areas so late in their career? I have no issues taking a severe paycut.

I'm in the same boat. I was interested in tax but was pushed into M&A. They promised to bring me back to tax but just never did. It's super hard to switch these days. We better hang in there for another year.

[The Lsat Airbender]

I have no issues taking a severe paycut.

Go in-house and be a generalist? You've probably created some decent exit opportunities with your 5-year tour of duty

[emc91]

I have no issues taking a severe paycut.

Go in-house and be a generalist? You've probably created some decent exit opportunities with your 5-year tour of duty

I know two people who switched between corp / litigation after several years and both did it via an in house stint before going back to firm life.