Senioritis: Diagnosis and Treatment

I. Two Weeks More and I'm Free! But how can I possibly last two more weeks??

You've landed your dream job and you're a mere two weeks away from leaving your current firm, taking that tropical vacation, and then making a fresh start at your new position. You feel exuberant, on top of the world, like you could do anything. There's a bounce in your step and a playful smile hovering around your mouth as you begin cleaning out your office with unleashed enthusiasm. You've got Radiohead's new album on and you're making rim shots into the industrial sized trash can that would make Lamar Odom weep. The world is yours.


That is, until your intercom buzzes and suddenly your play time is interrupted by a junior partner needing some research done ASAP on a case you've already sent to the file room. Crashing back to earth, you sigh, push aside the legal detritus that's accumulated onto your desk, and sign on to Westlaw. You've got senioritis, and you've got it bad.

Senioritis is a completely normal affliction that varies in degree; it's power over you is directly affected by a number of factors such as (a) the excitement you have for your new job; (b) your desire to leave your current position; (c) the emotional roller coaster of your job search; (d) the fabulousness of your so-close-you-can-almost-hear-the-waves-vacation; and (e) the fact that you may be just plain worn out.

Continuing to do strong work in a job that you are ready to cast off is extremely challenging. Unless engaged in a trial or a deal that you've been working on for months, you're more than likely to fall victim to senioritis. Senioritis is an affliction that results in feelings of ennui towards your normal routine coupled with a galloping excitement about what the next job/adventure will bring. But not to fear, there is hope! The important thing to do with senioritis is to diagnose it then treat it. Diagnosis is easy. Treatment takes some effort.

II. Part One: Diagnosing Senioritis

Ask yourself the following questions and any number of affirmative responses is a likely indication that you have it.

1. Has a certain malaise come over your attitude to current tasks?
2. Are you (unpleasantly) surprised when called upon and expected to engage in rigorous critical thinking and/or brain numbing document review?
3. Does your lunch time actually resemble a small party? That is, do your gather friends together, frequent a place with real silverware and perhaps enjoy an adult beverage?
4. Do you go to the gym when not reveling in special lunchtime parties?
5. Do you come in at 10:00 am?
6. Leave at 5:00 pm?

Now that we've established the diagnosis, let's discuss treatment.

III. Treating Senioritis

The important thing to keep in mind when treating senioritis is that it's temporary, and, generally, harmless. However, to ensure that there is no damage done to either your reputation or your networking relationships, bear in mind that it is your goal to leave your current firm with well-wishers and potential business contacts. You want to be missed. Not shown the door.

To do this, we recommend keeping in mind the following guidelines as you make your way towards the finish line.

1. Remember the original excitement that you had when you accepted your current position. At one point in time, it was your dream job.
2. Remember that your current firm invested in you and you developed your current, marketable skills under their tutelage.
3. Remember that you are still being paid. While supervisors understand and anticipate a certain amount of slacking off, it's very important to complete the tasks that you've been assigned and to do them well.
4. Remember that "this too shall pass." Senioritis is infamous for the death grip it can have over its victims, but again, it's only temporary. You're going to get through that last brief, last depo, last review of a purchase and sale agreement. Just hang in there!
5. Make the rounds. Now that you have some free time, use it to your best advantage. Pop in to offices, make some small talk. Chances are that people have been talking about your departure so beat them to the punch.
6. Thank people. Be sure to make your gratitude known to all the people that you've worked with during your time with the firm. Practice groups are like little colonies and it can be a difficult time when one of the members leave. Some folks may be taking on more work to cover you and a recognition of that fact goes a long way.
7. Be sensitive. While you are now starting a fresh chapter in your life, others are left behind slogging away. So, while a certain level of excitement is expected, be careful not to go overboard. Firms have feelings too. No tap-dancing on the conference table at your last calendar meeting.
8. Be proud. You've obviously done a terrific job at your current position which propelled you into the new one. Take a little time and think about all that you've accomplished. Remembering your achievements can also help any nervousness and fear about the next step. But that's another article.....

About Harrison Barnes

Harrison Barnes is a prominent figure in the legal placement industry, known for his expertise in attorney placements and his extensive knowledge of the legal profession.

With over 25 years of experience, he has established himself as a leading voice in the field and has helped thousands of lawyers and law students find their ideal career paths.

Barnes is a former federal law clerk and associate at Quinn Emanuel and a graduate of the University of Chicago College and the University of Virginia Law School. He was a Rhodes Scholar Finalist at the University of Chicago and a member of the University of Virginia Law Review. Early in his legal career, he enrolled in Stanford Business School but dropped out because he missed legal recruiting too much.

Barnes' approach to the legal industry is rooted in his commitment to helping lawyers achieve their full potential. He believes that the key to success in the legal profession is to be proactive, persistent, and disciplined in one's approach to work and life. He encourages lawyers to take ownership of their careers and to focus on developing their skills and expertise in a way that aligns with their passions and interests.

One of how Barnes provides support to lawyers is through his writing. On his blog, HarrisonBarnes.com, and BCGSearch.com, he regularly shares his insights and advice on a range of topics related to the legal profession. Through his writing, he aims to empower lawyers to control their careers and make informed decisions about their professional development.

One of Barnes's fundamental philosophies in his writing is the importance of networking. He believes that networking is a critical component of career success and that it is essential for lawyers to establish relationships with others in their field. He encourages lawyers to attend events, join organizations, and connect with others in the legal community to build their professional networks.

Another central theme in Barnes' writing is the importance of personal and professional development. He believes that lawyers should continuously strive to improve themselves and develop their skills to succeed in their careers. He encourages lawyers to pursue ongoing education and training actively, read widely, and seek new opportunities for growth and development.

In addition to his work in the legal industry, Barnes is also a fitness and lifestyle enthusiast. He sees fitness and wellness as integral to his personal and professional development and encourages others to adopt a similar mindset. He starts his day at 4:00 am and dedicates several daily hours to running, weightlifting, and pursuing spiritual disciplines.

Finally, Barnes is a strong advocate for community service and giving back. He volunteers for the University of Chicago, where he is the former area chair of Los Angeles for the University of Chicago Admissions Office. He also serves as the President of the Young Presidents Organization's Century City Los Angeles Chapter, where he works to support and connect young business leaders.

In conclusion, Harrison Barnes is a visionary legal industry leader committed to helping lawyers achieve their full potential. Through his work at BCG Attorney Search, writing, and community involvement, he empowers lawyers to take control of their careers, develop their skills continuously, and lead fulfilling and successful lives. His philosophy of being proactive, persistent, and disciplined, combined with his focus on personal and professional development, makes him a valuable resource for anyone looking to succeed in the legal profession.

About BCG Attorney Search

BCG Attorney Search matches attorneys and law firms with unparalleled expertise and drive, while achieving results. Known globally for its success in locating and placing attorneys in law firms of all sizes, BCG Attorney Search has placed thousands of attorneys in law firms in thousands of different law firms around the country. Unlike other legal placement firms, BCG Attorney Search brings massive resources of over 150 employees to its placement efforts locating positions and opportunities its competitors simply cannot. Every legal recruiter at BCG Attorney Search is a former successful attorney who attended a top law school, worked in top law firms and brought massive drive and commitment to their work. BCG Attorney Search legal recruiters take your legal career seriously and understand attorneys. For more information, please visit www.BCGSearch.com.