Many lawyers looking to revitalise their careers or take that next step may consider jumping ship and moving to a new firm as an option.

However, career management expert, Bridget Beattie, regional general manager of Right Management, says they should avoid making a hasty or flippant decision at this time.
Instead, she advises that employees considering a change of company or career should take the time to consider their unique strengths, skills, and interests and ward against making impulsive career decisions.

"The number of job advertisements increased in December to their highest level in 31 months, and since then we've seen continued strengthening of the economy. However, this shouldn't be an automatic cue for employees to cut and run," she says.

"In particular, avoid making snap decisions based on only one or two factors - such as a recent disagreement with your manager, or a smaller-than-anticipated raise or bonus. Decisions about whether to change jobs or careers need to be based on a complete picture and some genuine self-evaluation. The grass isn't always greener."

In addition, it's important for lawyers to seriously consider if they have what it takes to move to another firm and - depending on where you want to move - it might be best to stay put until you've acquired the sufficient level experience and skills required to really succeed in the role.

According to Alan Gin, human resources manager at DLA Piper Hong Kong, candidates that have experience at similar (top-tier) firms are at an advantage.

"[Candidates with experience at top-tier firms] have often had exposure to the larger transactions and understand what is required to satisfy the demands of large clients, so they would have an advantage in the recruitment process. It also means they are used to working and co-operating in a larger team environment and these experiences ultimately benefit our clients," he says.

"Chinese language skills are also important for our practice in Asia as is an ability to think 'outside of the square' and strategically beyond the legal issues. Also, when recruiting for more senior positions [such as a senior associate] client development skills become more and more important, although this is encouraged from a very early stage."

Even if you do possess the experience and skills required for the move, it's not a great idea to jump ship if you haven't done the time - how quickly you move from one firm to another could tarnish your career prospects.

"A stable work history is important as we need to be able to deliver continuity of client service. There are of course always 'exceptions' and we would look at these case-by-case, but two-years-plus at previous firms would be looked upon more favourably," says Gin.

Candidates should ask themselves some tough questions about career satisfaction and success before making the move to really help evaluate whether the time is right. 

Decision checklist for changing jobs

* Satisfaction. Consider how much you enjoy the work you do, your career opportunities, and the culture of the organisation.

* Skills and abilities. Are you doing what you do best? Take a look at your skills, abilities and interests, and see if they are aligned with your current role.

* Employer's financial outlook. Consider how well your employer is performing financially, and what the economic future looks like. Are revenues, market share, and head count increasing or decreasing? Is your firm innovative and a leader in its sector of the legal services market?

* Professional development opportunities. Are you satisfied with your current career path?  Has your career been moving forward, laterally, standing still, or are you being bypassed for promotions and choice mandates?

* Career 'net worth'. Career net worth is the value the market places on your unique abilities and knowledge. Continually building your skills, knowledge and technical expertise creates demand, keeps you competitive, and generates the highest career net worth.

* Opportunities for 2010. In this dynamic, global market, it is critical to be able to effectively manage changes. Don't neglect actively building and maintaining your network, both in person and online. Great places to make new networking contacts include people from both your personal and professional lives, trade and industry groups, and community organisations. Keep in touch regularly to strengthen those relationships.