Erin Scherzer, Esq.

My interest in attorney development has been a central theme in my own career and the driving force behind my decision to join Greiner Consulting Group. Across private practice, my leadership roles at Seton Hall Law School, and my time on the senior management team at NSBHF, I have focused on helping attorneys think intentionally about their careers and position themselves for long-term success.

What drew me to GCG is its deeply client-centric and holistic approach as well as the leading reputation the firm has enjoyed over several decades. We take the time to listen carefully, understand the individual’s goals, and provide strategic guidance that extends beyond a single aspect of their professional success or the particulars of the next step in their job search. Our work is designed to meet attorneys where they are and support them in building careers that feel both sustainable and rewarding.

In my experience working with Millennial and Gen Z attorneys, I’ve seen that career paths in today’s legal profession can be less linear than in past generations. Attorneys from these cohorts have tended to display more openness to exploring different practice areas, emerging specialties, and alternative trajectories, rather than viewing partnership at a big law firm as the only marker of success. I’ve noticed that these generations place a high value on feedback and continuous growth; they want candid conversations, clear guidance, and practical tools to refine their practice and to better serve clients. In many ways, this shift brings the profession back to its roots – an apprenticeship model that prioritizes mentorship and skill development early in an attorney’s career.

One of my earliest formative experiences came long before law school, when I worked at a local public school distributing free lunches in my community. That role taught me the importance of meeting people where they are, approaching work with empathy, and recognizing that meaningful outcomes depend on collective effort. Those lessons have stayed with me throughout my career, whether in legal practice, leadership, or advocacy work. Mentorship has also played a critical role in shaping my professional trajectory. As a first-generation attorney, I relied heavily on mentors for guidance and perspective. Equally important was sponsorship – the senior professionals who actively invested in my growth by opening doors, providing exposure, and creating opportunities. That combination was foundational to my development and confidence as a professional.

At the core, my work as a coach is that of an active listener. I am fully present with clients, giving them my undivided attention so I can understand not only what they are saying, but also how they are saying it. Listening closely to word choice, tone, and body language allows me to align my guidance with each client’s priorities and lived experience, rather than imposing an agenda.

Trust is also essential. I strive to create a space where clients feel comfortable being candid about their concerns, uncertainties, and goals. I also bring a high degree of responsiveness and thoroughness to my work. Career growth and transitions can be stressful, and I see my role as being a steady, thoughtful advocate during moments when clarity and support are needed most.

Growing up working class in Buffalo shaped my values in fundamental ways. With both of my parents working multiple jobs, I learned early that work ethic matters, that every role deserves full commitment, and that showing up consistently is not optional. That mindset has stayed with me throughout my professional life. I also learned not to take opportunity for granted. I began my legal career in the shadow of the 2008 financial crisis, and I understood how fragile those opportunities could be. When others left early due to a lack of assignments, I asked to join calls and stayed late. I kept a mentality that I could not fail, no matter what was happening around me. That experience reinforced a sense of drive and ownership of my own success. I am proud of my Rust Belt roots, and I carry them with me in my work today, particularly in my commitment to supporting and advocating for first-generation attorneys as they navigate within the profession.

My experience balancing a demanding career with community advocacy has reinforced that professional success and meaningful engagement are not mutually exclusive. From early on, I understood the necessity of pursuing rigorous, financially stable work, and I found that intellectually rewarding. At the same time, I was intentional about making space for pro bono and social-impact work, which I viewed as both a moral responsibility and a source of personal grounding. That perspective informs my work as a coach. I help clients think flexibly and creatively about their careers—recognizing that impact can take many forms and seasons. Even modest, consistent engagement can matter deeply. Leading by example, I’ve found, is one of the most effective ways I can encourage attorneys to build careers that allow for both professional excellence and principled contribution.

Time away from work is centered around my family. I value everyday moments like shared meals and walks with our dog, live performances, and creative activities. Recently, building with Legos with my daughter has become a favorite tradition. We’re fortunate to live in a vibrant and diverse New Jersey community and being part of that environment brings me a great sense of fulfillment. Connecting with others in my neighborhood and appreciating the life we’ve worked hard to build provides balance and perspective.