7 Ways to Take Ownership in Big-Law

Partners ought to do a better job explaining what it means to “take ownership.”

By the time you’re a mid-level associate, you’ve put in some tough time—

You’ve endured the early years of 0% control over your schedule.

—You’ve canceled social plans;
—you’ve sacrificed umpteen weekends; and
—you’ve poured your heart and soul into every task you’ve been assigned.

But now you get this frustrating feedback:

—“We need you to start ‘taking more ownership.’”
—”You need to be ‘more proactive.’”
—“You should ‘show greater initiative.’”

These well-worn phrases echo in your mind, leaving you feeling confused and inadequate.

You thought you were doing everything right, but somehow, it’s not enough.

The path to partnership seems increasingly elusive, and you’re left wondering:

—What does “taking ownership” mean?

— How can you “act like an owner” when you’re not one?

The weight of these expectations feels crushing, especially when the guidance seems vague and the goalposts keep moving.

You’re caught in a frustrating cycle of trying to meet unclear expectations while juggling an already overwhelming workload.

If this resonates with you, you’re not alone.

Many mid-level associates find themselves in this exact position, feeling stuck and unsure of how to break through to the next level.

A big reason is that partners don’t hand out any roadmap.

I find that associates rarely know what to do next.

While speaking with a Big Law client last week, I brainstormed a list of possible action steps to try to put some meat on the “take-ownership” bone for her.

I’m sure these ideas have all been thought of before—even written about in good books on the subject—but I made my list from experience.

I hope some of my ideas might help you.

Please let me know how you do.

💌 Amanda