A guide on how to choose the right boss and what management styles work for you

How to Choose the Right Boss for You

Choosing a job is one thing. But choosing the right boss? That’s where careers are made or quietly derailed. In the legal profession, it’s easy to focus on salary, location, or the prestige of the firm. But if you overlook who you’re going to be reporting to, you may miss the most important factor in your future happiness and success.

So, how to choose the right boss for you?

Understand What Brings Out Your Best

Start by reflecting on how you work best. Do you thrive with close mentorship or need the freedom to run independently? Do you prefer daily structure or broad direction? Think about your previous roles, what made you perform well, and what didn’t? Your ideal boss will create the environment that allows you to do your best work.

Think Beyond the Role – Look at the Person

When thinking about how to choose the right boss for you, go beyond the job title or job description. Ask: Who is this person, really? Do they genuinely invest in their team? Do they model the behaviours and values you want to adopt yourself? Are they respected internally, and do others thrive under their leadership?

Can You See a Long-Term Future?

The typical career path of a lawyer is to make partner. It might feel far off, but it’s worth asking: can you visualise yourself running a firm and making decisions with this person? Would you trust them as a future business partner? Do they align with your values and your commercial personality? If not, they might be a boss but they won’t be the right boss for you.

Pay Attention to How They Communicate

The interview is just as much for you as it is for them. Do they speak with respect about their team? Do they sound like someone who knows their people’s strengths and backs them? Or are they vague, distracted, or simply focused on output?

Good bosses communicate clearly, with confidence and care. You should leave that meeting feeling energised and respected not unsure or on edge.

Ask the Right Questions

If you want to get a real sense of how to choose the right boss for you, ask meaningful questions. Try:

How do you delegate work?
How do you support junior lawyers with development?
How do you handle mistakes?
How do you measure success?

Their answers will give you insight into their expectations, their leadership style, and whether they’ll challenge and champion you in the right ways.

Consider Their Place in the Firm

Choosing the right boss also means understanding their influence and position within the firm. Have they created a team that people want to stay in? Are they growing the firm and bringing others up with them? A great boss brings more than good leadership they create opportunity.

The Bottom Line

I’ve worked with many lawyers over the years, and more than a few left roles not because of the work but because the boss wasn’t the right fit. A great boss will protect your energy, stretch your abilities, and set the tone for your career.

So next time you’re thinking about a move, don’t just ask “What’s the role?” Ask: How to choose the right boss for you? Because a great boss isn’t just a manager they’re a future you can see yourself growing with.

Get in touch with our team to discuss how to choose the right boss for you. We take the time to understand our clients’ leadership styles and will guide you through what’s the best fit for your personality and career goals.

Here at Tyler Wren, we know good people know good people. We offer a referral bonus if you refer someone to Tyler Wren, with whom we secure a new role. Click here to find out more and to refer a friend.

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