Careers Clinic: Should I Explore the Jobs Market to Achieve My Career Goals?

In our Careers Clinic, we put your career questions in the spotlight. 

This month, Associate Director Kelly Reid responds to a lawyer who feels comfortable at their current firm but is starting to wonder—am I reaching my full potential, or should I explore what else is out there? 

I’ve been in the same role as a contentious probate lawyer for a few years now, and while I know I have the potential to achieve more, I feel like I’ve been coasting. The problem is, I have great colleagues, and my salary and benefits package are decent—so I’m torn.  

Should I be pushing myself to explore the job market, or is it better to stay where I’m comfortable?  

A few years ago, I found myself in a similar position to where you might be now. I had a stable job, a good salary, and worked with people I really liked—but deep down, I knew I wasn’t pushing myself or making the most of my potential. I wanted more for my career, but the idea of stepping into the unknown was daunting. What if I made the wrong move? What if I left behind something good, only to regret it? 

But I also knew that if I stayed where I was, nothing would change. So, I took the leap—and looking back, it was one of the best decisions I’ve ever made. If you’re starting to wonder whether there’s something better out there for you, here’s why exploring your options could be the best thing for your career. 

1. Growth Comes from Change

It’s easy to stay in a role that feels comfortable, especially when you’re surrounded by great colleagues. But staying in the same place for too long—especially when you’re not feeling challenged—can slow your career progression. Moving to a new firm could give you access to more complex cases, leadership opportunities, or even a better work-life balance. 

💡 Ask yourself: Is your current role still helping you grow, or are you just staying put because it’s familiar? 

2. There’s No Such Thing as the “Perfect Time”

If you’re waiting for the ideal moment to make a move, you could be waiting forever. When I left my old role, I had young children and was worried about how a career change would affect my work-life balance. But I realised that waiting wouldn’t make the decision any easier. Sometimes, you have to create the opportunity yourself rather than waiting for the “right” time. 

3. Regret Hurts More Than Change

One of my biggest fears was that I’d regret leaving something secure. But in reality, I would have regretted not making the move far more. Even if a new role doesn’t turn out exactly as planned, you’ll learn valuable lessons and gain experience. But if you stay in a role that isn’t fulfilling, you may always wonder, What if? 

4. Opportunities Have Evolved—Have You?

The legal sector is changing, with more firms offering flexible working, clear career progression, and supportive cultures. If your current role isn’t meeting your ambitions, there’s likely a firm out there that will. Exploring the jobs market doesn’t mean committing to a move—it simply means understanding what’s available to help you make an informed decision. 

5. You’re More Capable Than You Think

I know first-hand how daunting it can be to step outside your comfort zone. But once you do, you realise how much you’re capable of. Changing roles gave me new challenges, new confidence, and a career path I wouldn’t have had otherwise. The right move can do the same for you—sometimes, you just have to take that first step. 

What’s Next? 

Exploring the jobs market doesn’t mean you have to leave your firm—it just helps you see what’s out there and whether there’s a better fit for your ambitions. If you’d like to discuss your options confidentially, I’d be happy to help. Let’s chat about what your next step could look like. 

Get in touch send me an email at kelly.reid@realmrecruit.com or call me on 03300 245 606.