Pack Your Parachute: Preparing For The Unknown As An In-House Lawyer

Christopher Robin once told Winnie-the-Pooh: “Promise me you’ll always remember: you’re braver than you believe, and stronger than you seem, and smarter than you think.” If you’re an in-house lawyer facing job uncertainty, these words might feel like little consolation. But they hold a powerful truth you must embrace if you are on the brink of an unexpected career change.

Many in-house lawyers enter the corporate and government world expecting stability. Unlike law firms with billable hour pressures or solo practitioners constantly chasing clients, corporate and government roles can provide predictable work, a steady paycheck, and a clear career trajectory. But the reality is that job security in these worlds can be an illusion. Layoffs, mergers, restructuring, leadership changes, or shifting business priorities can turn what seemed like a safe role into a precarious one overnight. When that happens, the worst thing you can do is be caught off guard. The best thing? Be prepared.

Packing Your Parachute Before The Jump

Many lawyers don’t think about career transitions until they’re forced to do so. That’s a mistake. The time to prepare for a job change is not when you’re walking out of HR with a severance packet — it’s long before that moment arrives. 

The key is to plan so that, if and when change comes, you’re not scrambling; you’re ready to land on your feet. Here’s how you can start packing your parachute today.

1. Build And Maintain Your Network

Too many corporate and government lawyers focus solely on their internal relationships, neglecting to build connections outside their company or agency. But if you suddenly find yourself looking for a new role, you don’t want to start networking from scratch.

Make a habit of staying in touch with former colleagues, engaging with professional organizations, and attending industry events. Connect with recruiters specializing in legal placements, even if you’re not actively job hunting. Keep up with legal networking groups on LinkedIn and consider joining bar associations or affinity groups where you can stay visible.

Remember, most job opportunities don’t come from online applications — they come from personal connections. Start building those now.

2. Keep Your Resume And LinkedIn Profile Updated

It’s easy to get comfortable and let your resume gather dust, but if you had to apply for a job tomorrow, would it be ready? Updating your resume and LinkedIn profile is a small but crucial step in being prepared.

Regularly update your accomplishments, responsibilities, and skills. Focus on results — how have you added value to your company or agency? Have you saved costs, mitigated risks, or implemented new policies? Keeping track of these details now will make it much easier when you need to showcase your expertise later.

Also, make sure your LinkedIn presence is strong. Follow industry leaders, share insights, and engage with posts. You never know who might come across your profile when you need it most.

3. Expand Your Skill Set

In-house corporate and agency lawyers often become deeply specialized, which is great — until you need to pivot. If your experience is limited to one industry or a narrow area of law, consider broadening your expertise.

Look for ways to take on new responsibilities within your company or agency. Volunteer for cross-functional projects, get involved in compliance and data privacy or earn certifications that make you more marketable. If you have time, consider pro bono or nonprofit board work to build experience in new areas. Staying stagnant in your career is a risk. Keeping your skills sharp ensures that when change comes, you have options.

4. Know Your Exit Options

If your job were to disappear tomorrow, do you know what severance package your company or agency offers? What about benefits extensions, career transition assistance, or legal placement firms specializing in in-house roles?

Understanding your exit options now — not when you’re in a panic — will help you make better decisions if you need to make a move. Take time to research market trends for in-house counsel. What industries are hiring? What skills are in demand? Having this information ahead of time will put you in a stronger position should you need to look for a new role.

5. Have A Financial Safety Net

Job transitions are easier when you’re financially prepared. If possible, save a few months’ worth of living expenses to give yourself breathing room if you need to find a new role. If saving that much isn’t realistic, look for ways to cut unnecessary expenses or have a plan in place for short-term financial stability. Money stress can cloud judgment and lead to desperate decisions. Having a cushion allows you to be strategic about your next move rather than taking the first opportunity that comes along.

You’re Ready — Even If You Don’t Feel Like It

Facing career uncertainty can be daunting, but remember Christopher Robin’s words. You’ve built a career solving problems, managing risk, and thinking strategically — those same skills will serve you well in a transition. The key is to take control now, rather than waiting until change is forced upon you.

So, don’t wait for someone to hand you a parachute. Pack it yourself. Prepare now. And when the time comes, you won’t be falling — you’ll be ready to jump.

Lisa Lang is an in-house lawyer and thought leader who is passionate about all things in-house.  She has recently launched a website and blog Why This, Not That™ (www.lawyerlisalang.com) to serve as a resource for in-house lawyers.  You can e-mail her at lisa@lawyerlisalang.com, connect with her on LinkedIn  (https://www.linkedin.com/in/lawyerlisalang/) or follow her on Twitter (@lang_lawyer).

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