9 October 2024

Front Foot Forward – September Roundup.

In September, we explored the skills you need to thrive, the emerging roles reshaping the industry, and how to pivot your career to stay ahead of the curve.

Vicki McNamara and Katrina Gowans provided insights on how to future-proof your legal career, from mastering tech to making strategic career decisions.

Key takeaways from this fascinating chat:

Emerging specialisations in Legal: The legal profession is seeing a rise in specialisations such as data governance, cybersecurity, and generative AI. Lawyers play a key role in managing data retention, security, and ethics. Roles like “Microsoft masters” (data scientists/analysts) are also emerging within legal teams to meet business needs.

Expanding roles in in-house tegal teams: The complexity of legal issues has increased the importance of managers focused on running legal teams like a business. In-house teams are also expanding to manage areas including ESG, governance, data and emerging technology risks.

Upskilling and micro-credentialing: In-house lawyers are encouraged to explore new areas through micro-credentialing, cross-business projects, and attending industry conferences. Continuous upskilling is essential, particularly in areas such as data governance and technology use, and legal self-service tools.

Cross-business collaboration and problem-solving: In-house lawyers must develop skills in complex problem-solving and cross-business collaboration. Rather than jumping to solutions, lawyers should take time to understand the problem and involve stakeholders from finance, IT, and other departments. This collaboration is key to managing the increasing complexity of legal issues.

Communication skills: Lawyers need to adapt their communication skills when working with non-legal professionals. It’s important to adjust speaking, writing and to different audiences and contexts.

Digital literacy: Lawyers should embrace digital tools like Excel and other software beyond Word. It’s crucial to assess needs first, then select the appropriate technology, avoiding the habit of defaulting to familiar solutions or purchasing new ones that don’t meet core needs.

Project management and change management: Learning project management skills is essential for working effectively in legal and business environments. Adopting disciplines such as project management, enhances a lawyer’s ability to deliver better services.

Continuous learning and reflection: Casting a wider net for learning beyond legal circles, engaging in discussions, and reflecting on new information are key to personal and professional development. Sharing insights with others helps shape one’s career path.