What Makes a Role 'Right' in 2026? - A Candidate’s Decision-Making Guide

In 2026, job decisions aren’t just about titles or salary, they're about alignment. With an increasingly complex legal landscape, candidates across risk, compliance, knowledge, and broader business services roles are thinking more deeply about what “the right role” truly means. At Pembury Legal, we speak to professionals every day who are weighing up multiple offers, internal promotions, or simply trying to assess if their current role is still the right fit. And the truth is: the decision-making process has evolved. Here’s what’s shaping candidate choices in 2026 and how you can assess whether a role is right for you.

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1. Hybrid Working Expectations

Flexibility remains a key driver for many professionals, but expectations are shifting.

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• Some firms have moved to 4 days in the office, especially among US-headquartered firms in London.

• Many continue to offer a 3-day hybrid model or greater autonomy.

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Ask yourself: “Does this working pattern support my lifestyle, responsibilities, and how I work best?”

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2. Cultural Fit

More candidates are leaving roles not because of the work, but because of culture misalignment.

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• Do you feel heard and respected in your role?

• Are business services teams included in decision-making and firm-wide initiatives?

• Is there psychological safety to raise concerns, contribute ideas, and influence?

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What to look for: Clues in how the team interacts, the tone of communications, and how the firm talks about business services in their branding.

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3. Career Trajectory

A good role doesn’t just serve you today, it sets you up for tomorrow.

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• Does this position offer exposure to senior stakeholders?

• Will it allow you to develop new skills or stretch strategically?

• Is there a clear structure for progression or internal mobility?

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Tip: Ask about internal promotions, team growth, and what happened to the person who last held the role.

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4. The Role’s Influence and Visibility

In 2026, professionals want to do meaningful work, not just tick boxes.

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• How closely is the role aligned with firm strategy or risk appetite?

• Will your work have visible impact on how the firm operates or serves clients?

• Is there a chance to contribute beyond your job description?

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The right role will: Position you as a contributor to firm success, not just a process manager.

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5. Support & Structure

Sometimes a shiny new title comes with no infrastructure or backing. Make sure you're not walking into an uphill battle without support.

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• Is the team adequately resourced?

• Is there leadership buy-in for the function?

• Will you have tools, systems, and colleagues to collaborate with?

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6. Values Alignment

Increased scrutiny around DEI, wellbeing, and firm ethics means more candidates want to work for firms that walk the talk.

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• What does the firm’s approach to inclusion look like?

• How do they support employee wellbeing, especially during busy periods?

• Do they have a reputation for looking after their people?

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Don’t just look at policies, look at behaviour.

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Final Thoughts

In 2026, the “right role” is no longer just about salary, title, or prestige, it’s about alignment, values, growth, and support. That definition will look different for everyone. For some, it's about autonomy. For others, visibility. For many, it's about being in a firm that recognises and champions business services as a strategic pillar, not just a support function.

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At Pembury Legal, we help candidates find more than just a job, we help you find the right job. Ready to explore what’s next? We’d love to talk to you about your goals and what kind of role would truly be the right fit for you in 2026.

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