Make a New Year’s Resolution to Improve Your Career

As we ring in the new year, many of us make resolutions for self-improvement. While shedding holiday-season pounds may be the most common goal (I’m actually eating a cookie as I write this), it’s also a great time to assess your career and work on the areas you want to strengthen. But without the right support and resources, it can be easy to hit a wall and give up.

Don’t go it alone! If you’ve resolved to improve your professional life in 2013, take a look at some of the services the WSBA offers to members.

• Launch a solo practice — or take yours to the next level. Our Law Office Management Assistance Program (LOMAP) has advice for opening and managing your practice. Borrow a helpful guide from the lending library, brush up your skills at a computer clinic, or watch a short video to pick up some organizational tips. LOMAP staff are happy to set up a consultation and help you stay on top of your practice.
• Look for a job (or hire a colleague). Check out our updated Career Center for the newest job listings or to upload your résumé. The Lawyers Assistance Program also offers job-seeking resources and support groups.
• Find work/life balance, or get help with problems that are affecting your career. The Lawyers Assistance Program (LAP) can help. Confidential, individual consultations are available on a sliding scale, as well as mental-health and addiction resources and peer advisors. If your problems are impacting your professional life, get in touch with the LAP.
• Give back to the community. If you’d like to do more pro bono service this year, start with our Volunteer Opportunities page. You can learn more about pro bono opportunities, join the Moderate Means Program, or mentor a young lawyer or law student.
• Get involved with WSBA leadership. Districts 2, 9, and 10 are holding elections for governors this year. Find your district and learn how you can make your voice heard.
• Make connections with Washington’s legal community. Make connections with other lawyers in your practice area by joining one of the WSBA’s 27 sections, or by joining a committee.
• Retire right. If you’re thinking about retirement in 2013, LOMAP also offers guidance on winding down a practice.

The WSBA offers a wide range of services to help you make the most of your career. If you’d like to find out how we can help you, send us an email or call 800-945-WSBA.