For Partners: What to do when your Managing Partner Finds Out You Are Interviewing Elsewhere

In the close-knit, often insular world of law, secrets have a short shelf life. You might think your clandestine job search is under wraps, but what happens when your Managing Partner gets wind of it? The consequences of such a discovery can range from an awkward conversation to professional seppuku. But fear not, esteemed partners: with the right approach, it can also be a catalyst for growth.

The Initial Shockwave: Navigating the Immediate Aftermath

“Silence is the ultimate weapon of power.” – Charles de Gaulle

When confronted with the news of your external interviews, the first instinct may be to deny or deflect. However, such tactics are often transparent and can further erode trust. Instead, adopt a composed demeanour. Silence, as Charles de Gaulle noted, can be powerful. Use it effectively. Before addressing the matter, gather your thoughts and ensure your response is measured.

Understanding the Underlying Concerns

Behind the immediate reaction of your Managing Partner, there lie deeper concerns:

1. Loss of expertise: You bring a unique set of skills and experiences to the table, and your departure could leave a significant void.
2. Financial implications: Client relationships and revenue streams that you've cultivated might be at risk.
3. Internal morale and dynamics: Your potential exit could affect the equilibrium of the firm and the morale of junior associates.

Recognizing these concerns allows you to address them head-on and frame the conversation productively.

Strategizing Your Response

When your secret is out, going on the defensive can be counterproductive. Instead, focus on the reasons behind your decision to explore other opportunities:

1. Professional growth: If the new role offers a chance for more significant challenges, express this as a natural progression in your career journey.
2. Cultural alignment: Perhaps the prospective firm aligns more closely with your personal and professional values.
3. Compensation and benefits: It's a legitimate concern. Maybe the new firm offers a package that's hard to ignore.

By laying out these reasons transparently, you present yourself as a thoughtful professional, rather than a furtive escapee.

Leveraging the Situation: Turning Crisis into Opportunity

“Every adversity, every failure, every heartache carries with it the seed of an equal or greater benefit.” – Napoleon Hill

Napoleon Hill's timeless wisdom rings true here. This situation can be an excellent opportunity for introspection and negotiation:

1. Re-evaluate your role: Discuss with the Managing Partner about possible changes or advancements in your current position.
2. Re-negotiate terms: If compensation was a significant factor in your decision to interview elsewhere, now might be the time to discuss a review.
3. Address systemic issues: If there are underlying issues within the firm that contributed to your decision, bring them to the fore.

Facing the Broader Firm

Word travels fast in legal circles. Once your Managing Partner knows, it's likely only a matter of time before others in the firm catch wind of the news. Be prepared to address the situation with colleagues, and remember to keep the focus on your professional journey and growth.

Should You Stay, or Should You Go?

“Deciding what not to do is as important as deciding what to do.” – Steve Jobs

The fallout from your Managing Partner discovering your external interviews can lead to two outcomes:

1. A renewed commitment to your current firm: Through discussions, you may find a renewed sense of purpose and alignment with your current firm.
2. A reaffirmed decision to leave: Sometimes, the initial reasons for wanting to depart are insurmountable.

Either way, remember to make your decision thoughtfully, considering the long-term implications for your career.

Securing Your Legacy

Regardless of your decision, ensure that you leave a positive lasting impression. If you decide to stay, work diligently to rebuild any eroded trust. If you opt to leave, ensure a smooth transition, preserving relationships and ensuring client interests are unaffected.

In Conclusion: Charting Your Path with Dignity

While the discovery of your external job search by your Managing Partner can initially seem like a cataclysm, it's a navigable challenge. Address the situation with transparency, dignity, and professionalism, and you can turn a potential crisis into a pivotal moment in your career journey.

For those partners seeking nuanced career advice or contemplating their next steps in the complex world of legal dynamics, I encourage you to get in touch with me at [email protected]. And for more thought-provoking insights into the world of law, be sure to sign up for my newsletter at www.tattonsheikh.com. Navigate your career with the wisdom of someone who's seen it all.