Many attorneys who have had clerkships sometimes move on to work at large law firms; but the adjustments necessary can be difficult in many key ways.  Let's take a look at how former clerks can navigate the landscape of a large law firm.

1.    During a clerkship, attorneys often have the full attention of the judge they work with and are given meaningful and challenging work.  But once clerks make the transition to a large law firm, many feel like they have become simply a "cog in the machine" as they answer to a variety of bosses with a variety needs. The key to dealing with multiple bosses is to treat each one like a highly valuable client--be responsive, meet deadlines and deliver quality work. The more you can do this, the more likely you will be given challenging and meaningful assignments and build a positive reputation for yourself.

2.    Tracking and being accountable for billable hours can be very challenging for many former clerks or anyone new to the large law firm environment. To overcome this challenge, in the beginning you should always have your billable time checked by a senior associate or partner to make sure you are recording the hours correctly.

3.    Many former clerks feel lost and afloat in larger law firms with little or no guidance.  The trick to getting on the road to progress and promotion within a large law firm is to identify and develop relationships with associates and key partners who have the skills and willingness to informally mentor you. These informal mentors are key to helping you identify and improve your weaknesses.

4.    Last, but certainly not least, former clerks can benefit greatly by studying and learning from the "office politics" of larger firms.  By watching the failures and successes of others when dealing with "office politics" you can effectively learn how to navigate the law firm to reach your career goals and objectives.