How Associates Can Use AI To Advance Their Careers

Before we dive in, the first thing we need to talk about with AI is responsibility.

AI isn’t magic, it’s a tool. And like any tool in law practice, it has limits. You can’t paste confidential client documents or input privileged information into a chatbot. You can’t trust a case citation until you’ve verified it. And you can’t ever outsource your judgment. That’s what partners and clients rely on you for.

But once you understand the guardrails, you can see AI for what it really is: a multiplier. It won’t replace your thinking, but it can help you think more creatively, more strategically, and with more impact, both in your legal work and in how you present yourself as a professional.

Thinking More Creatively in Your Work

Every associate has hit that wall: staring at a blank page, unsure how to start. That’s where (law firm approved) AI shines.

• Drafting a brief? Ask AI for three different outlines using different prompts. You’ll usually find one sparks a better structure than the one you had in mind.
• Preparing for oral argument? Use an AI tool that can review and summarize the briefs to ensure you’re hitting all the high points.
• Struggling to simplify a legal concept? Have AI suggest plain-language analogies that can help your client actually understand what’s at stake.

AI isn’t doing the work for you: it’s giving you creative angles so you can focus on the judgment calls that matter.

Supercharging Your Professional Brand

Here’s where a lot of associates overlook AI: your professional presence outside of client work.

LinkedIn (and other platforms) aren’t just about sharing promotions or firm press releases. They’re a way to build your reputation and connect with people who could be mentors, clients, or referral sources down the line.

But many posts from associates sound the same: “Check out this important article my amazing colleague [tag said colleague] at [tag law firm] just published!”

You can do better. Drop a link to your firm’s article into ChatGPT and ask:

• “Help me frame this article for a [insert] industry audience.”
• “Write three post options that highlight the business impact for HR leaders.”
• “Use the top 2-3 points from this article to create an engaging post with a compelling hook.”

Suddenly, you’ve got a post that’s not just a generic link-share. It’s tailored, thoughtful, and shows you can translate legal analysis into business value.

And when you’re stuck on what to post at all? Use AI to brainstorm prompts, draft first passes, or rework posts into more conversational, engaging formats. That’s how you stand out from the sea of sameness.

AE Pro Tip: Read the draft carefully and make sure it fits your style. If not, ask ChatGPT to revise. ChatGPT will get to know you better over time and your drafts will get better and better.

Smarter Learning & Research

AI also helps you keep up with the flood of information. Instead of getting lost in endless Google results, try tools like Perplexity. It pulls source-linked answers and summaries in seconds, saving you time and giving you the confidence that you can track the original material.

Want to stay sharp on industry trends? AI can summarize reports, podcasts, or even conference recaps so you walk into client meetings prepared with insights that matter.

Making Time for What Matters

AI isn’t just about briefs and business development. It can also help you take better care of yourself.

One of my friends recently used ChatGPT to build a 20-minute, age- and experience-appropriate home workout he could do before work. No wasted time scrolling fitness blogs. Just a simple, personalized routine that fit his schedule and goals. I asked him to send me his prompts.

Think about what that means for you:

• Want a meal plan that works with late nights and client dinners? Ask AI to generate options around your schedule.
• Need to tackle that difficult conversation with a friend or family member? Ask AI to help you craft your response.
• Looking for ideas for a family trip or even a quick weekend activity with your kids? AI can map out options you’d never have thought of.

The point isn’t perfection. It’s making it easier to fit in the things that make you better outside of work. Because when you’re healthier, happier, and more engaged at home, you’ll show up stronger in your practice too.

AE Pro Tip: Ask your colleagues, friends, and family how they are using AI to make their life easier. These discussions can spark new ideas in you.

Why This Matters for Your Career

The associates who learn to use AI thoughtfully will move faster, write cleaner, post more creatively, and build stronger reputations. They’ll be the ones who stand out when partners are deciding who to trust with the next big assignment. Or who clients remember when it’s time to send business your way.

AI won’t make you a partner overnight. But ignoring it? That could be what holds you back.

Want More?

We’ll be going deeper on this topic at our next Associate’s Edge Accelerator webinar on Friday, September 19 at 1:00 PM ET.

If you’ve been thinking about joining, this is your moment. We’ll get hands-on with how to use AI responsibly, creatively, and strategically to set yourself apart in your firm.

👉 Drop “ACCELERATOR” in the comments or DM me for details on how to join before the webinar.

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Hi, I’m Matthew Korn. I’m passionate about helping law firm associates gain the EDGE in their legal careers.

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