Authored By: Iris Garrett

It may not surprise you that solo attorneys have a harder time building friendships at the office than attorneys at big firms—mainly because they’re usually running the entire law firm on their own. But it can also be difficult for solos to form meaningful friendships with their big law counterparts, and not just for lack of time but lack of empathy.

A solo attorney and one who is working at a larger firm can’t always relate to one another’s day-to-day experiences-- a quality many of us look for when choosing a friend. However, solos can find similarities when they connect with other solo attorneys, and even better, they can form great bonds with one another that have the potential to last a lifetime.

In an article written on myshingle.com, Carolyn Elefant gives three reasons why this is true.

Solos Have Lived Each Other’s Worsts Elefant says like you, other solo attorneys know how it feels to go up against a big firm or to persevere in times of doubt. They also know how to offer constructive feedback sans judgement, because they’ve been there, too.

Solos are Quirky Elefant says even the most professional solo attorneys have an oddball side, but they also have interesting hobbies and unique points of view. You may have things in common or you may not, but the conversations will never be boring.

Solos Inspire Other Solos Elefant says great friendships are the ones that lift you up, not bring you down. Other solo attorneys will fuel your passion, creativity, and drive for your law firm. They will also challenge you to be a better lawyer and person—a quality we all like to have in a friend.

To read Carolyn Elefant’s full article, click here.

Photo Credit: Mangostar