Stepping up to partner: what no one tells you (but should)

Making partner is a huge career milestone. But here’s the truth: it’s also one of the most misunderstood transitions in the legal world.

It’s not just a promotion. It’s a complete shift – in expectations, responsibilities, and how you show up.

In our latest report, we spoke to junior partners across a range of UK firms about what that shift really felt like. What helped. What didn’t. And what they wish they’d known earlier.

Here’s what we heard.
 
1. The “visibility trap” is real

Many new partners feel pressure to suddenly become the “face” of the firm – leading pitches, speaking at events, growing a profile. But they often step into that spotlight without much warning or support.

So what can help ease you into this transition?

Start small before promotion – internal showcases, informal webinars, or client conversations where you can build confidence and presence in a low-risk setting.
 
2. Business development is no longer optional
As a senior associate, BD might feel like something to squeeze in between deadlines. As a partner, it’s fundamental.

But too many firms offer little clarity on what “good BD” looks like. New partners are often handed a target and a budget, with little training or coaching to back it up.

One partner put it simply:

“I was suddenly expected to bring in work, but no one had shown me how.”

The most successful new partners didn’t wait. They started building relationships early – hosting events, showing up on LinkedIn, getting in the room. The common thread among these: consistency over perfection.
 
3. Internal shifts can be just as tough

Your colleagues change when you become a partner. Associates become your reports. Peers become competitors. And you’re no longer “invited in” – you’re expected to lead.

The key is clarity. Be upfront about your focus, goals, and where you want to add value. Build trust early with internal referrers – those early connections will often feed your first year of work.

4. Support makes a difference – but it’s rare
Very few partners in our interviews described receiving structured support from their firm.
 
What did help was:
  • Being brought into pitches early
  • Shadowing experienced partners
  • Honest conversations about what success looks like
  • Individualised coaching, not generic BD training
 
The bottom line is that BD support needs to start earlier and run longer. It’s not a one-off session. It’s a mindset shift that deserves time and attention.
 
5. Everyone’s path looks different
There’s no single way to “do” business development. And that’s okay.
What matters is finding what works for you – whether that’s hosting events, writing content, nurturing referrers, or deepening a niche network.
 
Trying to copy someone else’s style rarely sticks. Instead, successful partners built habits that felt sustainable and authentic.
 
If you’re an associate thinking about partnership…
  • Start acting like a partner now.
  • Ask to join pitches.
  • Build your visibility (and confidence) before the pressure is on.
  • Treat BD like billing – track it, schedule it, review it.
If you’re a firm supporting new partners…
  • Be clear about expectations early
  • Offer structured support in the first 12–24 months
  • Recognise that BD looks different for everyone – and that’s a strength, not a problem
 
Want the full report?
 

It’s packed with direct quotes, actionable advice, and real stories from junior partners across the UK.

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