Associate Story - Abi Gnanadesigan

Seven years after passing the bar, Abi found herself with limited opportunity for advancement at her previous firm. She was seeking more sophisticated work and a path for growth. She was in the late stages of interviewing with other firms when friends-of-friends urged her to consider Dykema. Abi felt that conversations with Dykema were different than other interviews— transparent and detailed, and not the “glossy generalities” she heard from other law firms. She trusted the mutual commitment established during talks with Dykema, specifically outlining how she could achieve her goals at the firm.

Associate Leadership Opportunities

As an associate, Abi grew close to her peers across the country who supported one another in the “most collegial culture” she had ever experienced, with senior associates generously helping junior associates. She took a leadership role on the Associates Committee, which gave her exposure to firm leadership and a voice at the table. The committee had the power to drive significant change, and Abi is proud to have been a part of an initiative that resulted in changed policies to recognize associate hours spent on client development.

Investment in Professional Development Shortens Path to Partner

The sophisticated client work Abi began doing, coupled with the firm’s investment in Abi’s professional development, quickly brought the opportunity for the advancement she was seeking. One especially helpful development opportunity Abi benefited from is the business development coaching and mentoring from one of the firm’s top rainmakers. He helped Abi focus her time on the most impactful client development strategies. This one-on-one time in addition to other professional development training available made all the difference.

Now a partner reflecting on those first conversations with Dykema, Abi finds that the process and the mutual commitments that were described gave her a clear path to success with no surprises along her journey.

Understanding of Work-Life Balance Challenges

As a new mom, Abi continues to count on the firm’s support for work-life balance challenges. “Dykema’s generous family leave policy, flexibility and respectful culture allow me to take better care of myself, my child, and, of course, my clients.”