This quarter, we’re discussing the intangible traits and qualities that firms and organizations are looking for when they hire new attorneys. We’re also looking at tips for how to practice and improve those traits during your summer experiences. Last week, we talked about humility and manners. This week, we’re talking about generosity, flexibility and enterprise.
Generosity
There are many definitions for generosity. Wordnetweb.princeton.edu defines it as “the trait of being willing to give your money or time.” Wikipedia defines it as “the habit of giving freely without coercion.” In the professional arena, however, we’re usually not talking about money. We’re talking about credit.
The legal profession is full of big egos. Refusing to share credit – or worse, refusing to ask for help because you might have to share credit – is a common rookie mistake. As Kimberly K. Egan wrote in her article, Essential Skills for Lawyers that Aren’t Taught in Law School, “The lawyer who works hard to be the person who gives someone else credit will not only succeed professionally but will help create a culture of collegiality and respect, which will, in turn, help other lawyers and employees succeed professionally.”
How can you practice being generous? Start by actively looking for ways to acknowledge the work of your peers. Did you borrow some of Joe’s research to write your memo? Thank him and let your supervisor know that Joe did such a great job, you started from his foundation. Was Cindy’s opening statement inspiring and compelling? Tell your coworkers what you loved about it! Did Sam, the office assistant, help you with a particularly difficult client? Send a thank you email and cc your supervisor!
Flexibility
The practice of law is often unpredictable. Things do not always proceed according to plan, and one’s schedule is often at the mercy of clients, judges, coworkers, weather and other external events. When something unexpected comes up, be flexible. Saying yes, whenever possible, to opportunities that arise demonstrates your commitment to your clients, your organization or firm, and your professional reputation.
Does that mean you’ll never have an evening or weekend for yourself again? No. If you’re going to your sister’s wedding, or an out-of-town friend is in town, or you’re simply having dinner with your “plus one” on date night – it can be ok to say no. But if your plans were 3 hours of primetime TV or the weekly (or nightly) xBox-fest with your roommates, reconsider what would be best for your professional reputation. In other words, you can say no as long as you say yes more often.
Enterprise
One of the things I like most about being a lawyer is that I’m constantly learning new off-beat and esoteric things. Nearly every case required learning about something new – from gun regulations to property lines, animal kennels to nonprofit formations, Skype to case management systems. It is a mistake for a new lawyer to say that they cannot do something because they do not know how to use a certain computer program or aren’t familiar with the subject area. Learning new things is part of the job – and the esoteric knowledge you will acquire over your professional lifetime is one of the best parts of being an attorney.
How to become more enterprising? This tip is a lot like the last one – say yes. A lot. Be willing to try something new, knowing that you can always ask for help from your supervising attorney or your in-office mentor. Remember: the best way to fail is to refuse to try.
