I’m a solid lawyer but I’m not the 'brilliant rainmaker' type. I’m starting to worry that means I’ll always be stuck in the middle. Is there room in this profession for people who are just consistently good, or does it all come down to flash and charisma?. I’ve never blown anyone away in a pitch meeting, but I’m the one they call when something actually needs to get done. Is there a path forward for those of us who aren’t flashy, but dependable?

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There’s absolutely room for reliable, consistent lawyers. Every firm needs people who deliver without drama. Quiet competence is underrated—but deeply valuable.

likeuplifting

This, very much. I have a holiday card from a client which sits on my memento shelf, where they wrote “thank you for actually doing the work and actually having the answers while [Rainmaker] plays golf”.

likefunny

💯 there will always be room & you are the type of attorney that is highly desirable for law firms!!!

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Absolutely. People who can do good lawyering - strong writing, good critical thinking skills, organization, and good enough people skills to deal with clients is the core of your toolchest as a lawyer. Not everyone is a super rainmaker flashy type

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There is if you are willing to take chances, know your value, and insist on it

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There’s always room. Also, rainmaker ≠ brilliant.

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Ask chat gpt for a chart of different types of biglaw firm partners. You probably fit into one of the other tiers below rainmaker/relationship/origination partner. Obviously aggregate draw and comp will be lower but it's no longer only equity or out. Many layers, even at single and 2 tier partnerships.

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being rainmaker is being a good salesman , not a good lawyer. watch some youtube videos and see how the sales masterminds like Tai Lopez, Alex Hormozi and Andrew Tate do it

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I agree. I think that the file handling/go to will always have a place and though it may take longer, will eventually build that book. Alternatively, if you don’t care to get that origination, look in-house. It’s geared toward doing your job and being able to sign off at 5 (for the most part) and the pay can be okay (especially if not coming from big-law).

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Just wanted to pop in to say the rainmakers often aren’t the brilliant ones.

Can anyone provide specific examples?! I worked in an American law firm where most partners in my office where excellent lawyers, not really rainmakers, but I’m not sure every law firm follows that model.

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