The last few weeks have been intense. Each time I open LinkedIn, I see more and more members of the global legal community say goodbye to their jobs.
Mostly, they keep a brave face and express gratitude above all. In response, we all give them likes and messages of support as they begin their uncertain path into many months, at least, of COVID-19 recovery.
The stubborn reality is that millions of professionals are losing their jobs. Many businesses are closing, employees are being laid off, and the legal community will not be an exception. Chances are you will know someone who is affected. It’s all but certain.
Another stubborn reality: Layoffs and furloughs are hard for those who leave and for those who stay. It is an emotional, stressful, and anxious experience for everyone. After all, the questions of “Why me?” or “Will I be next?” are not easy to answer.
The good news: We increasingly normalize the job loss conversation. It only took forever!
The bad news: Not all members of the legal community are comfortable asking for help publicly or even privately. The fear of stigma is real!
Having lived through a few shocks to the system and economic crises in the past, I find that, just like everything else in life, a good strategy will help you survive the storm and thrive once it subsides.
One, eagerly focus on your career and professional development. It may feel like now is not the time to do this, as some people are fighting for their lives. But remember these are not linked events. Now is a good time to research, build relationships, and learn, whether you got laid off or stayed. My interview, Julie Q. Brush, Founder of Solutus Legal, helps us understand the trends and how to address the complex emotions that COVID-19 evokes.
Two, participating enthusiastically in causes you care about can help you get through tough times. It’s a way of socializing. Recently, Breen Sullivan, Chief Administrative Officer at Watermark, explained how The Fourth Floor, the organization she cofounded, has helped attorneys and entrepreneurs strategically focus on their careers as they focus on solving important social issues. After all, it’s hard not to get excited about having an impact, especially during these tough times.
Three, mentorship — whether you give, receive, or both — is more critical today than ever before. Lisa Lang, General Counsel of the Kentucky State University, explained why it is critical to be conscious and intentional in how we show up. After all, everyone is watching the leaders!
These are trying times. With so much fear, uncertainty, and change, it’s easy to throw our hands up and feel like nothing is in our control. But doing so will only exacerbate our feelings of helplessness. Instead, now is the time to focus on what is in our control. It will help us feel sane now — or as close to sane as possible — and even prepare us for the long, difficult road ahead.
Olga V. Mack is the CEO of Parley Pro, a next-generation contract management company that has pioneered online negotiation technology. Olga embraces legal innovation and had dedicated her career to improving and shaping the future of law. She is convinced that the legal profession will emerge even stronger, more resilient, and more inclusive than before by embracing technology. Olga is also an award-winning general counsel, operations professional, startup advisor, public speaker, adjunct professor, and entrepreneur. She founded the Women Serve on Boards movement that advocates for women to participate on corporate boards of Fortune 500 companies. She authored Get on Board: Earning Your Ticket to a Corporate Board Seat and Fundamentals of Smart Contract Security. You can follow Olga on Twitter @olgavmack.