Have you ever experienced love bombing?
'Love bombing' is described as 'the action or practice of lavishing someone with attention or affection, especially in attempt to influence or manipulate them'. Despite the initially pleasing sentiment, the term has a lot of negative connotations. This practice has spread to the professional sector, with the legal business in particular experiencing an increase in love bombing while getting new talent. However, the truth is that these 'love-bombing' approaches can have the opposite impact and cause more harm than good, especially if they are manipulative in nature. In this article, we'll go over some of the reasons why firms may love-bomb you, as well as how to deal with this manipulative behaviour.
Maintain your composure
There's no doubt that the current labour market in the legal sector is challenging, with tough rivalry for new talent, which is most likely why love bombing is becoming more common as firms act at an early stage to secure solicitors. When an organisation discovers an outstanding individual who may be interested in working for them, it's logical that the company expresses a strong desire to hire the candidate and include them in the team as quickly as possible. However, there is a narrow line between marketing the opportunity and love bombing; while it's difficult not to get a little ego boost from excessive flattery on the part of a firm, it's essential to maintain your wits about you and be aware of the realities of the possibility on offer.
Evaluate the opportunity carefully
The most effective way to ensure you're making the right decision when it comes to a new chance is to look past compliments and carefully examine the facts of the position, recognising any love-bombing tactics. To thoroughly understand the details of the role, it is important to ask the proper questions throughout the interview process, particularly to recognise any manipulative behaviour. Similarly, conduct extensive research on the firm and, if possible, try to gain an understanding of its culture, values, and EVP based on its market reputation, especially if you are joining a family law practice. All of these will put you in a strong position to make a decision regarding the role based on its merits rather than how they praise your behaviour. After all, this is in the best interests of both parties: no matter how enthusiastic the firm appears to bring you on board, their first goal is going to be to recruit someone who will stick around. The fit must be suitable for both of you.
Consider taking some time to think things over
Without a doubt, choosing a new firm is not something that should be done quickly, especially given the prevalence of manipulative love-bombing tactics. However, in the face of love bombing, it is all too easy to be enticed to accept an offer without first determining whether it is the right option for you at this time. Take enough time to contemplate the opportunity, drafting a list of the positives and negatives of the firm and the role itself may be useful at this stage, however you should also trust your instincts: if you honestly believe it is the right move for you after evaluating the specifics of the role, and you are excited about the idea of joining the firm, it is likely to be the right choice.
Conclusion
It is essential for those in the interview process to be vigilant and conscious of the reality of the offer on the table, particularly in recognising any early stage love-bombing. Make sure you're asking the appropriate questions, conducting your research, and recognising the signs of any manipulative behaviour before making an informed decision. This allows both sides to accurately judge whether the offer is a good fit, and you will be investing in a more secure and dedicated partnership in the long run.
