Law Firms Are Flipping the Mentoring Model

Still think mentoring only flows one way?

Some of the UK’s biggest firms are flipping the script. 🔄

Clifford Chance and Freshfields Bruckhaus Deringer have both launched reverse mentoring schemes, pairing Partners and Senior Associates with juniors to swap insights on technology, communication and culture. 

At Clifford Chance, the focus is inclusion. At Freshfields, it’s called Diverse Perspectives, helping leaders stay in tune with how the profession is shifting.

Some senior lawyers still bristle at the idea of being the ones to change. Being mentored by someone Gen Z, with a fraction of the legal experience, can feel like a challenge to authority.

But Gen Z aren’t waiting to be impressed by titles. They want leadership that listens, adapts and understands the world they’re stepping into. And the best leaders don’t see that as a threat, but a chance to stay sharp, relevant and connected.

For Senior Associates aiming for promotion, that mindset matters. It shows you can lead people who think differently to you, and you’re not stuck in the “we’ve always done it this way” mindset.

Reverse mentoring won’t replace experience. But it can give you the edge when it comes to influence, team trust and standing out for all the right reasons.

🔍 Looking for a firm where leadership is evolving? At JMC Legal, we’ll help you find the right one.

Would you take part in reverse mentoring – or have you already? We’d love to hear your take. 🔽