QI work at a prominent white-shoe firm in Manhattan. Unlike most people, I actually like being a lawyer. I work long hours, but really enjoy it. Crazy, I know.
The thing that’s driving me crazy, however, is the intra-firm snobbery. In particular, there’s one Harvard/Harvard partner (Robert) who always refers to me as his “second-tier project.” It was kind of cute the first time he said it. Not so cute the second time. And really f#@king annoying the tenth, eleventh, fifteenth time.
I don’t mind working for Robert, but I can’t stand his constant, not-so-funny shtick. So, my question is: Should I tell him I don’t like being referred to as his “second-tier project?” If I do, will he still work with me? Will he ruin my reputation? Please advise. For the record, I went to George Washington, graduated top 5% and was on law review.
AThe most amazing thing is that you don’t mind working for this elitist, unfunny, condescending, insecure tool. You’re either incredibly understanding or suffer from abused-associate syndrome.
Anyway, the answer is YES. You absolutely should tell Robert that you don’t love the “second-tier project” joke. You have two choices:
- Next time Robert does his thing, come back at him with a sarcastic response that makes him look like the dick he is. As in: “Oh my God, Robert, you totally busted me. I keep telling people I went to Yale. I wonder if anyone will ever work with me because I only went to GW and was on Law Review.” Or something like that.
- Talk to him in private and explain, calmly but firmly, that his constant joking about your credentials is demeaning and that you’re worried it might negatively impact your career.
Whether or not he wants to work with you again is irrelevant. Taking care of yourself—and your dignity—is way more important. Good luck, and don’t let this jackass kill your BigLaw buzz.