* Does Blogging Make Lawyers Change Jobs?

Based on my survey of four lawyer-bloggers, the answer is yes.

Denise Howell started blogging in November 2001 when she was working for Reed Smith. In July 2006, she left Reed Smith. Months from first blog post to job change: 55.

Rick Klau started blogging in December 2001 when he was working for Interface Software. In March 2004 he joined SocialText, and in May 2005 he joined FeedBurner. Months from first blog post to job change: 27.

Ernest Svenson started blogging in March 2002 when he was working for Gordon Arata. In March 2006, Ernie started his own law firm. Months from first blog post to job change: 48.

John L. Welch started blogging in November 2004 when he was working for Foley Hoag. In November 2006, John left Foley Hoag to be of counsel at Lowrie Lando. Months from first blog post to job change: 24.

From this survey, I can conclude that:

  • 25% of lawyers who blog will change jobs within 2 years of their first blog entry.
  • Lawyers who blog will change jobs, on average, within 38.5 months of their first blog entry.
  • 75% of all lawyer-bloggers are male.
  • Surveys are as reliable as you want them to be.

If you think my survey is inaccurate, you’re correct. But you be surprised how many other surveys make the same errors. Then again, the majority of people think they are above average drivers (only 50% are). For more on surveys, see:

The Truth About Stats And Dogs (Or Why Most Surveys Are Wrong)

For the record, I started blogging in March 2003 and have no plans to change jobs. At least unless/until I retire.