Late last week, I spent part of an afternoon scanning several blogs and on-line chat rooms. While doing so, I came across a posting written by a relatively new associate with a major national law firm. That young professional complained about the lack of work for which he (or she) could currently bill. The associate wrote that when he had approached a more senior lawyer with the firm and inquired about other billable work opportunities, the partner had suggested the new associate explore some pro bono options. The posting ended with the associate commenting that he felt frustrated and bored.

 

With the exception of bankruptcy professionals, I venture that no one is enjoying the current economic downturn. Those who are relatively new to the workforce, however, are in a unique position to benefit. Within any given field, most young employees are generalists, i.e., they have not yet had time to develop a deep a level of expertise in any one area. That allows young employees to move more easily from one department to another, seeking out those areas that offer the best work opportunities.

 

If you are a more junior employee, use this downturn to begin to develop an area of expertise. Whether you stay in a department that is not as busy or move to one that is teaming with activity, find a niche and dig into it as deeply as you possibly can. Then, as you begin to acquire new knowledge, set out to draft an article for publication or create content for a seminar. (By the way, I take my own advice. In what spare time I now have, I’m drafting two books.)

 

Take any extra time you have to demonstrate that you are prepared to take responsibility for your career. Today’s managers, who are also stressed to the max by the economic downturn, expect their junior employees to do more than seek hand-outs. Demonstrate your professionalism by creating work opportunities. Besides, if you find you’re worried about your future, I think you will discover that taking positive actions will substantially reduce your anxiety.