A few years ago, I was part of the Law Placement Program (LPP) which placed me in a small IP law firm in Ottawa specializing in Trademarks. My goal was to work in IP law, my dream come true. However, my hopes were dashed at the end of my time there. The firm was run by a sole practitioner and they did not have the budget to keep me. This left me devastated.
At the time, I had circled to a dark place. However, upon reflection I realized that there were a lot to gain from this experience.
Here are some of my tips that got me through the ‘fire back’.
1) Rest
You’ve been working hard, so just take a break! You have the rest of your life to work so enjoy the time off. Take care of yourself. You will find a position, I promise.
2) It’s Not You
Let’s face it, you’re incredible. You endured three years of one of the most challenging subjects in the world and everyone knows it. This is only a minor setback in the grand scheme of things. Articling and work placements are only short term.
After any job, you can always find another. Do not take this business decision personally and move on.
3) Be Open
When I was not hired back at the firm, I was narrow minded at the start. I was motivated to find a career in IP law and didn’t understand why I wasn’t able to achieve this.
But soon after, I began working at a legal tech firm which seemed to peak my interests similarly to IP law. In this position, I worked with people in varying fields and gained insight into the needs of legal professionals. I had the chance to dip my toes in sales, marketing, design and the ‘coding world’. This has been one of the most rewarding experiences of my career.
I also found an opportunity back in law in a completely different, real estate law. With nothing but my old notes, I was surprised to learn that not only was I interested in the topic, but also good at it.
If you are struggling to find clarify after articling or your LPP placement, remember there is always a place for you.
You just have to find it.
Learn more about dealing with hire back, and join us for our Life After Hireback Event on July 13th. You can register here: https://youngwomeninlaw.com/event-4391207
Author: Anonymous
