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People don't like going through the effort of training someone new and they don't like change. In the first few months, if you're not up to speed but have the capability, that's not on you. It's easier to blame you, though. In short, this is almost certainly not about you or an objective view of your performance.
I’m sorry you had to see that. It is gut wrenching to see something like that but their behavior is still unprofessional. Did you receive proper training? Have you been asking for help? If you like the firm, I would ask your supervisor for more training on the systems and docket management. Also schedule some time with that partner and discuss their expections. Sometimes initiative goes a long way. Don’t beat your self up though. This too shall pass.
Sorry to hear that, and please know this happens to a lot of people who never know it’s happening. It should be on them to share expectations and help you reach them.
Im sorry this happened to you. I had a similar situation years ago except I overheard the attorney complaining about me to a client on the phone. She was definitely unprofessional to even discuss your work performance with anyone but you. I interpret that as she does not want you to improve. Might be better to look for a better environment. It sounds like you are doing your best but she does not accept it.
Get another job. You r not aligned with a company that talks/treats employees in thus way…. Too many opportunities
. U might b eitking for defense firm tgst only cares about billable hours. Hi to plaintiffs work. It pays well
I agree.
Something similar happened to me at my last law firm and I was really hurt by it. I said something and they totally played it off and then there was a target on my back. Just be careful if you do say something.
The same thing is happening to me right now except the attorney complains to my peer who then shares with other co-workers. The expectations are insanely unrealistic while infantilizing and coddling capable adults who expect you to over-accommodate at the drop of a dime.
I'm so sorry you experienced that. That just plain hurts. They should understand you're on a learning curve right now. You're a bigger person than me, not sure I could stay after that. Keep your chin up and believe in your worth!!! 💪
You're not an L, let's start there. Unfortunately (and I speak from experience), attorneys constantly compare the newbie to their previous assistant.
You don't have to compete with anyone or feel less than. She sounds like a piece of work. Get all the experience you can and start looking for a place they will appreciate YOU and YOUR efforts. Not someone else's shadow.
Say everything
If you want to work in peace, let them know without letting them know like by saying out loud you know you're not as fast as the last, but you are getting there fast. Then, all will be watching you excel not fail.
You can't be mad at what someone genuinely feels. You were not intended to see the open screen. This generation is too soft. Take the criticism and use it as a tool to improve. If this attorney has any power over you're employment, you may want to start looking for a new job. How did you "accidentally" see the screen? If you did talk to the attorney, use an angle that is more like "hey, I don't think zoom messages are very secure during a zoom share since I was able to see what was said." Then see what they tell you. It may be the hard truth that you are slow and can't measure up to the paralegal before you. It hurts to hear that, especially if you believe you are giving your all. There must be something you can do to improve. Use this tool to get better, not be mad at a partner for expressing themselves.
I recently resigned from.a retail position because my manager decided that all staff had to have the same skill level. And me being a Baby Boomer I have adequate tech skills but nothing like what college students today possess. The Attorneys sound like the retail managers who decided I was slow..? We all have different kinds of backgrounds and skills. I don't think it's hard to learn skills..and we all learn differently. Hang in there if it's right for you.
find another job
Seasoned paralegal here with 30 years of experience... I would ask them casually when the opportunity presents itself, if you are meeting their expectations, and if there is anything that they feel you should be doing differently or need to do that you aren't currently doing. Just a friendly check-in, so that everyone is on the same page. It is always good to know everyone's expectations, especially working for many different people. Since you are newer, you want them to know you take pride in your work and that you want to meet everyone's expectations. It will go a long way being proactive. Just my 2 cents. I still do this with my attorneys occasionally. I never want to make them feel like I am replaceable or that I do not value my role.