The quarterly publication of the International Legal Technology Association
Issue link: https://epubs.iltanet.org/i/43128
As we headed into ILTA's 2011 annual conference, we took the opportunity to catch up with our three nominees for the new "Young Professional" distinguished peer award. With the changing landscape of legal IT, it was a treat to have each candidate share some information about their views of professionalism and leadership, a history of their career development paths and how they're paying it forward in leading their teammates and subordinates. Each person's interview can be heard in its entirety on the accompanying podcasts. What does the word "professional " mean to you, and why? Son: It defines how you should conduct yourself in and outside of the workplace, because you never know who may be watching and how it might affect your image and that of your firm. It's also the manner in which you approach your work and your attitude, and your demeanor while doing so. Everyone can be professional when the good times are rolling, but it's in a crisis when true leaders and professionals really shine. Carlos: I associate "professionalism" with the values of ethics, integrity and respect. These are part of the core values that my parents instilled in me, values that I, in turn, am instilling in my own family, as well as my co-workers and peers. Conducting yourself professionally helps you build trust — one of the stepping-stones of leadership. Meredith: I agree with Carlos that a professional is a person with integrity. This is someone who's honest, direct, fair and has a great work ethic. I appreciate someone who is very direct with their staff and all their team members, provides consistent feedback, and who is also willing to get their hands dirty. As you think about your own professional development, what are some milestones along the way that provided a real boost to your career? Carlos: I really believe that the key for my career advancement and for becoming a better person has resulted from two major adjustments that I made in my life. First, I changed my attitude — not only at work, but toward life in general. While I always had the drive to become better, I only wanted to satisfy myself. Today I continually seek to add value to those around me while having a positive, proactive and can-do attitude. And second, my career has evolved because I have trained my mind to adjust how I think according to where I am at the moment. When I was a helpdesk analyst, I tried to think as an engineer; when I became an engineer, I thought as manager; today, I am a manager, and I try to think as a director, CIO or as a business leader would. These two factors have led me to achieve multiple technical certifications, move up the ranks and achieve what I once saw as unreachable goals. Meredith: The first milestones for me were graduating from law school and passing the bar exam. And then when I became the Director of Knowledge Management for Baker Donelson, as well as the Conference Vice President for ILTA — these were hugely important milestones for me as I felt a sense of pride and accomplishment. I was also flattered that others felt enough confidence in my skills and leadership abilities to allow me to flourish and be creative in these new roles. Son: The first big milestone for me was being named team lead of my group, and then shortly thereafter becoming manager of my department. These two events were the catalysts that allowed me to make my belief in myself as a leader a reality. Thinking back over your career, are there any specific skills that you've struggled with, and if so, how did you jump those hurdles? Meredith: I think the biggest hurdle early on in my career was trying to figure out my leadership style. I looked for my own mentors, and, thankfully, I found three that I have adored through my entire career. And I learned that the best leadership style for me is a coaching style. I love to let people — my employees, in particular — figure out their own strengths and learn to trust in their abilities. I'm here to help them, but I want them always to trust themselves, so that they can do the things I'm challenging them to do. Son: After being given the opportunity to lead my team, I knew I would be placed in situations where my public speaking skills would be put to the test. I participated in a Peer to Peer the quarterly magazine of ILTA 23