Ian Shaffer, principal in Much’s Real Estate group, sat down with Law.com for an interview in its “How I Made Partner” series, featuring in-depth conversations with recently elevated partners about their paths to success.
Shaffer discusses how he knew Much was the firm for him, crediting his relationship with Managing Partner Courtney Mayster as a defining influence. He points to her mentorship and their shared love for Chicago as a key factor in his decision to build his practice at a firm rooted in the city.
Shaffer is clear that the path to partnership is not a solo endeavor. Alongside the emphasis on hard work and personal drive, he acknowledges that the people and culture around him are just as important, saying, “Contribute to the firm culture. Think about what you can do to make the firm a better place for everyone around you. Those ‘extra’ things aren’t really extra at all; they’re what set you apart and demonstrate your investment.”