Peer to Peer Magazine

18 PEER TO PEER: THE QUARTERLY MAGAZINE OF ILTA | WINTER 2016 We all know there are "must-have" skills that every lawyer needs in their toolkit. Just as legal workflows continue to evolve, so too have the skills lawyers need to succeed. Lawyers face new challenges as technology advancements change both the business and practice of law. From understanding the ethical obligations of information security and data privacy to business communications and social media, lawyers today more closely resemble Steve Jobs than Atticus Finch. Even if they do not yet realize it, here are five skills lawyers need to succeed: by Cindy Mitchell of Traveling Coaches 5 Things You Might Not Think Your Lawyers Need To Know…But They Do! EXTRAS 5 Things You Might Not Think Your Lawyers Need To Know…But They Do! Communication skills covered in law schools emphasize courtroom conduct, but arguing a case is far from the only communication skill a lawyer needs. Good communication skills establish trust with clients and co-workers and include more than just speaking. Aentive listening, body language, empathy and interpersonal skills all affect how we are perceived in the workplace and the courtroom. Writing skills developed during law school emphasize legal analysis and the presentation of a strong argument. They rarely cover other types of writing needed in the daily practice of law, such as email messages, proposals, memorandums or text messages. Social media tools are a great way to network. Lawyers use LinkedIn and Twier to connect with clients and collaborate with other lawyers. Knowing what and what not to share through social media channels is critical for both firm security and client confidentiality. Team management techniques are critical as firms move from one secretary for every lawyer to teams of staff supporting ever-larger groups of lawyers. Understanding how to focus on the alignment of individual contributions and talents with group objectives is essential to developing a high-performing team. When team objectives are met, the firm and its clients benefit. Business etiquee is essential but oen overlooked. Firms have lost clients and suffered reputational damage from unprofessional or inappropriate behavior. Manners make a difference when it comes to portraying the image and values of the firm. Design programs to help lawyers and staff develop these high-value competencies. P2P

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