I recently started working at a midsize law firm. While I like my job, I'm constantly being asked by partners to help them. I know it's not a good idea to say no to partners, but there are only so many hours in the day. What can I do?
You're right. It's not good to say no to a partner when you're the new kid on the block. In some instances, it could be tantamount to committing professional suicide or detouring any chance of making partner. We wish we could tell you that overloading new associates is an uncommon practice, but in most firms it's the way things get done.
If you want to be seen as a go-getter, there's probably not much you can do but work long hours. We asked two new associates how they handle this problem. They suggested creating a simple spreadsheet of each assignment, with the name of the partner, request date, and anticipated hours or days needed to complete each task. Keep the log on the corner of your desk, and the next time a partner gives you an assignment, jot it down. Make sure the partner at least glances at the log to see the other work already on your plate.
You also must be politically savvy enough to know what assignments must take priority. If a senior partner asks for your help, you should respond quickly. This tool isn't meant to set your work schedule in stone but to bring some awareness to others, in an understated way, that even a diligent worker has limits. If you're lucky, the strategy will help promote some discussion and re-evaluation of how work is assigned to new associates. Now, when you make partner, remember this!