Our Coach’s Counsel with the Practising Law Institute
Loeb Leadership’s Coach’s Counsel Column
with the Practising Law Institute (PLI)
At Loeb Leadership, we have always been committed to empowering professionals in the legal industry and beyond through our coaching, training, and consulting services of the highest caliber. We focus on creating healthy workplaces, fostering diversity, equity, and inclusion, nurturing trust and collaboration, and inspiring high performance. Our efforts have gained us a reputation for delivering transformative results.
The Practising Law Institute (PLI) is a nonprofit organization that provides comprehensive support and resources covering various areas of law. One of these fantastic resources is the PLI Chronicle: Insights and Perspectives for the Legal Community. The PLI Chronicle is a monthly publication that serves as a platform for thought leadership, industry insights, and expert perspectives in the legal field.
Since 2021, Loeb Leadership has had the pleasure and privilege of having our own column the PLI Chronicle: Insights and Perspectives for the Legal Community, titled the “Coach’s Counsel.” Through this collaboration with PLI, we have had the honor of sharing our insights and knowledge with the legal community. Each month, our Founder & Co-CEO Natalie Loeb, and Director of Strategic Partnerships, David B. Sarnoff, answer anonymously submitted questions from professionals in the legal industry and explore solutions for challenges relating to leadership, mental health, emotional intelligence, collaboration, relationship and team management, effective communication, self-awareness, and more.
Below is a collection of the Coach’s Counsel articles written by our esteemed team at Loeb Leadership in collaboration with the PLI.
Ask our coaches a question!
Have a question for us? Ask our coaches a question anonymously and we will respond in an upcoming issue of the PLI Chronicle: Insights and Perspectives for the Legal Community.
As a leadership development firm specializing in law firm expertise, we understand the unique challenges that legal professionals face in navigating the complex and ever-evolving industry.
Being able to share our insights and expertise through the PLI Chronicle is a privilege that we deeply appreciate. It allows us to support and guide legal professionals on their journey towards success. We are committed to providing valuable perspectives, practical strategies, and innovative solutions to help them thrive in their careers and overcome the challenges they encounter.
Below is a collection of the Coach’s Counsel articles written by our esteemed team at Loeb Leadership in collaboration with the PLI.
RECENTLY PUBLISHED
Distinguishing Bickering from Bullying
With guest contributor, Dr. Fritz Galette
March 2024
As the workplace evolves, navigating the delicate balance between in-person and hybrid work models presents new challenges in interpersonal dynamics. This article delves into the concerns raised by an employee witnessing uncomfortable interactions among colleagues in a law firm that has recently adjusted its hybrid work policy. With insights from Natalie, David, and guest contributor Dr. Fritz Galette, the discussion covers the spectrum of workplace behaviors—from normal conflicts arising from diverse personalities and work styles to more serious issues like workplace bullying. The piece offers guidance on how to distinguish between benign conflicts and harmful behaviors, emphasizing the importance of empathy, direct communication, and the necessity for organizations to foster a culture of inclusivity and support. It also touches upon the broader implications of these dynamics on mental health, productivity, and organizational culture in the post-pandemic workplace. Read on to explore practical advice for employees and leaders alike on creating a healthier, more respectful work environment where every member feels valued and heard.
Get SMART with Achieving Career Goals
January 2024
Facing the challenge of setting and achieving career goals, especially within the legal profession, can seem daunting. This article explores the dilemma of a mid-level associate contemplating whether to join their firm's career management program or to independently chart their course. With insights from legal professionals David and Natalie, the discussion sheds light on the significance of having a plan for professional growth, the advantages of structured career development programs, and the power of personalized goal setting. The article advocates for proactive career planning, whether through the support of a structured program or self-guided initiatives, emphasizing mentorship, business development skills, and the importance of setting SMART goals. Discover key strategies for navigating your career path with confidence, building meaningful professional relationships, and crafting a career that aligns with your aspirations and values. Read on to unlock the secrets to steering your legal career towards success, whether within the framework of your firm's program or by forging your own path with intention and insight.
FEEDBACK, COMMUNICATION, & EMOTIONAL INTELLIGENCE
De-escalating Tensions in the Office One Kind Gesture at a Time
Join coaches Natalie and David as they share invaluable insights on addressing short-tempered colleagues, exploring the power of empathy, communication strategies, and the art of active listening. Discover how one small act of compassion can transform workplace dynamics, fostering trust and collaboration. Don’t miss this guide for new partners and professionals alike, offering a roadmap to navigate and defuse workplace tensions with grace and effectiveness.
Using Communication to Defeat Frustration
Are you frustrated by associates texting you on Sunday nights to ask if they should come to the office when they don't feel well? This situation highlights the need for effective communication, clear expectations, and accountability in your law firm is. In this article, David and Natalie provide insights on how to handle this matter and set expectations for future incidents. Learn how to communicate your preferences, give feedback, and build a collaborative work environment while maintaining humanity and empathy. Read the full article for practical advice on handling these situations and reinforcing trust in your firm.
Is a Lack of Equitable Feedback Hindering Your Path to an Inclusive Workplace?
Giving feedback can be challenging, especially when it involves individuals from different backgrounds or identities. In a remote work environment, this difficulty is further amplified. This column addresses the concerns of a law firm partner who is hesitant to provide effective feedback to female and BIPOC associates, fearing potential misunderstandings or ignorance. The article emphasizes the importance of equitable feedback, the need for open dialogue, and the creation of an inclusive culture. It encourages leaders to enter the arena, overcome their fears, and approach feedback conversations with curiosity and a genuine desire to support their associates' growth. Read the full article to explore practical strategies for giving feedback across differences in a remote setting and fostering an inclusive workplace culture.
Is Praise as Important as a Paycheck?
In this Coach's Counsel column, Natalie and David tackle the topic of feedback in the legal profession. Addressing a partner's frustration with investing time in providing associates with positive feedback, the coaches shed light on the evolving dynamics in the workplace and the importance of recognizing the generational shift. They emphasize the value of feedback as a tool for motivation, productivity, and building trust, urging partners to embrace the practice of equitable feedback and appreciation. Discover how effective feedback can transform relationships and create a positive work environment in the full article.
Don’t Let Senior Associates Slip Through the Cracks
Read the full article to get comprehensive advice on how to handle the lack of feedback from your supervising partner as a senior associate at a large firm. Gain insights into generational differences in feedback expectations, learn the importance of initiating a conversation with your partner, and discover how to evaluate your own performance and leadership skills. This is a crucial moment for your career growth, so seize the opportunity to reset your relationship and receive the feedback you need to excel.
MENTORING & ATTORNEY DEVELOPMENT
Attorney Mentoring in the 21st Century
Finding a mentor can be challenging, especially for junior attorneys. Technology and the pandemic have reduced in-person interactions, hindering the formation of mentoring relationships. However, the need for mentoring in the legal industry remains unchanged. Mentoring develops competence and leadership skills, and it is important to create a mentoring culture within law firms. Trust, open communication, and inclusivity are crucial. Our coaches offer advice on establishing an impactful mentoring relationship.
Partners: How Patient Are You?
In the current remote and hybrid work environment, many junior associates are facing challenges in skill development and receiving mentorship. This article explores the impact of the pandemic on associate development and offers advice on how to approach partners about these concerns. It suggests scheduling a call to discuss the issue, offering a plan for regular check-ins, and seeking peer feedback. Additionally, it encourages associates to consider the context of their partner's behavior and practice empathy and compassion. Read the full article to learn how to navigate these challenges and foster career growth in a remote work setting.
Preparing to Welcome Your New Associates? What You Should Know
As law firms transition to hybrid work arrangements and welcome new associates, it becomes crucial to equip them with the tools and support needed to thrive in this new model. In this article, David and Natalie provide valuable advice for partners and leaders on how to ensure a warm welcome and effective onboarding for new associates. They emphasize the importance of clear expectations, communication, relationship building, and peer support. By implementing these strategies, firms can foster engagement, boost morale, and reduce attrition rates. Read the full article to discover practical steps for creating an engaging onboarding experience in a hybrid workplace.
Stretched Thin as Summer Associate Season Begins?
Are you tasked with mentoring and overseeing summer associates in a challenging work environment with limited resources? This article offers practical advice on creating an inclusive and engaging environment for summer associates, setting clear expectations, and providing meaningful feedback. Beyond effective management, our coaches emphasize the importance of leadership, highlighting the behaviors that can make you stand out as a leader and inspire summer associates to choose your firm. Learn how to balance management and leadership to ensure a successful and fulfilling summer associate program, even in challenging times.
LEADERSHIP SKILLS & DEVELOPMENT
How Can I Better Manage People and Administrative Tasks?
Managing administrative tasks while also wanting to focus on practicing law can be a struggle. Many attorneys face this challenge when transitioning into a leadership role. In this article, David and Natalie address common concerns and offer valuable insights on how to become an effective leader, emphasizing the importance of emotional intelligence, active listening, clear communication, and providing meaningful feedback. They also provide practical tips for managing client bills and tracking billable hours. If you want to improve your efficiency and effectiveness as a leader, read the full article for actionable strategies and advice.
Great Leaders Are Made, Not Born from Promotion
Law firms often promote senior associates to partners based on their legal expertise, but these new partners may lack the necessary managerial skills to lead and develop their teams effectively. In this advice column, David and Natalie discuss the importance of emotional intelligence (EQ) in leadership, the need for training in law schools, and the challenges faced by newly promoted partners. They provide insights on adopting a leader mindset, building trust, managing conflict, and improving communication with associates. If you want to support your firm's partners in developing their managerial skills and preparing future leaders, read the full article for practical tips and strategies.
It’s Not Lawyering, It’s Leading
In this article, Natalie and David offer advice to a newly promoted equity partner who is feeling a lack of confidence in their leadership abilities. This feeling is natural, especially for those who haven't had strong leaders or mentors in the past. The good news is that leadership is a skill that can be developed. By cultivating self-awareness, embracing a mindset of learning, and focusing on emotional intelligence, you can become an effective and influential leader. Start by consciously practicing key leadership behaviors such as active listening, seeking diverse opinions, showing interest in others, demonstrating patience, and confidently sharing your thoughts. Remember, leadership is a journey of continuous growth and learning. Read the full article for more insights and guidance on developing your leadership skills as a newly conscious competent leader.
Is There Only One Lane on The Road To Partnership?
In this article, David and Natalie explore the qualities that make a law firm partner and leader effective. While traditionally, revenue generation has been the primary factor for promotion, the importance of leadership skills is increasingly recognized. They discuss the impact of partners who can motivate, inspire, mentor, and develop associates, and the benefits they bring to the firm's culture, employee satisfaction, and bottom line. The article emphasizes that attorneys who excel in leadership and contribute to the firm in ways beyond business development can make a compelling case for elevation to partnership. It also highlights the need for clear expectations and support from the firm to nurture and grow these skills. Read the full article to gain insights on what makes attorneys shareholder or partner material and how firms can foster their success.
How to Prepare for Your Law School Journey
Are you a first-generation law student or feeling anxious about what to expect in law school? In this insightful article, David and Natalie provide valuable advice and strategies for navigating the challenges of law school. From time management and building relationships to developing a growth mindset, they offer practical tips to help you not only survive but thrive in your legal education journey. Discover how to overcome the fear of being underprepared and build the confidence you need to succeed in the legal profession.
NAVIGATING OPPOSITION & CHALLENGES
Holding Your Colleagues Accountable for Destructive Behavior
The impact of rude and disrespectful colleagues on the mood and civility of a firm can be detrimental. In this article, David and Natalie address the issue of attorney wellness and its connection to toxic behaviors. They provide guidance on approaching your partners to address these issues, emphasizing the importance of self-awareness, clear communication, and fostering a culture of respect. Learn how to initiate conversations, offer specific examples, and create a positive impact on the firm's morale and success. Read the full article for practical advice on handling these challenging situations with courage and accountability.
When Met with Opposition, Model the Way
In this column, Natalie and David tackle the challenge of a highly successful partner in a law firm who refuses to participate in leadership and mentorship training. They emphasize the importance of leadership development for future generations, the impact of such behavior on the firm's culture, and the potential loss of talented associates. The column provides strategies for engaging the partner, including building trust, demonstrating credibility, seeking their advice, and appealing to both emotional intelligence and the business benefits of leadership development. It also highlights the role of firm leadership in setting clear expectations and enforcing accountability. To learn more about how to handle this common issue in law firms, read the full article.
MENTAL HEALTH & MORALE
Am I a Change Embracer or Change Resister?
Navigating change in the legal profession can be overwhelming and stressful, but it's important to recognize that you're not alone in this experience. It's natural to go through different stages of reaction, such as denial, anger, bargaining, depression, and acceptance. To alleviate some of the stress, it's crucial to practice self-care, set boundaries, and prioritize your well-being, as this will not only benefit you but also inspire and support others around you.
If You're Happy and You Know It, Let Them Know
In this column, our coaches provide guidance to a fifth-year associate who enjoys working in the office but finds it challenging to be around colleagues with low morale. The coaches emphasize the importance of emotional intelligence (EQ) and suggest strategies for maintaining a positive mindset, demonstrating empathy, and being a positive influence. They also discuss the benefits of being in the office for learning and career advancement. The associate is encouraged to consider the advantages of their current situation before deciding whether to explore opportunities elsewhere. Read the full article for practical tips on navigating office morale in a hybrid work environment and making the most of the current circumstances.
Advocating for Your Attorneys’ Mental Health
In the legal profession, burnout and lack of self-care are prevalent issues, exacerbated by the mixed messages sent by partners who forgo vacation time while expecting associates to take time off. To address this, law firms must emphasize consistent messaging and modeling from leadership, encouraging all employees to prioritize their well-being. Research shows the detrimental effects of stress in the legal field, emphasizing the need for intervention and support. Ideas such as requiring vacation time utilization, implementing fitness groups, and providing wellness activities can contribute to a rested, happy, and productive workforce. Read the full article for actionable steps and insights on fostering a wellness culture in the legal profession.
Why Partners Shouldn’t Ignore Associates’ Mounting Stress
As a partner at your firm, you've noticed the impact of recent changes on your associates, including layoffs and a requirement for increased in-office work. In this advice column, David and Natalie share insights on effectively communicating layoffs, addressing concerns of remaining associates, promoting a healthy culture, and providing support for mental well-being. Discover actionable strategies to regain focus, strengthen morale, and create a supportive environment. Read the full article to learn how to navigate these challenging transitions and ensure your team's success.
LAW FIRM CULTURE
Do Female Lawyers Have to Play by Different Rules?
In the competitive world of law, a seasoned female associate faces a recurring challenge—her male colleagues taking credit for her work. When she confronts the issue, her male boss advises silence, claiming it's in her best interest. Natalie and David share their perspectives on navigating such situations. From personal anecdotes to practical advice, they empower her to reflect on her values, consider the firm's culture, and make informed decisions about her future. Join them as they delve into the complexities of workplace dynamics, self-advocacy, and the pursuit of professional success in the face of adversity.
Boost Your Law Firm's Well-Being Culture with Psychological Safety
This is a special guest article by Loeb Leadership Senior Consultant, Psychologist, and DE&I Expert, Dr. Fritz Galette.
In 1996, Amy Edmondson's research on psychological safety laid the foundation for a vital concept in organizational leadership. This article delves into the evolution of psychological safety as it gained acceptance across various industries, from healthcare to aviation, and its crucial role in promoting collaboration, creativity, and innovation. In the legal field, where traits like mental toughness are often prioritized, the concept faces skepticism but is gaining recognition. The article explores the importance of psychological safety in the legal workplace, offering suggestions to foster it, including promoting wellness initiatives, developing a humanistic climate, aligning leadership behavior with organizational goals, and emphasizing professional maturity and mentorship. It concludes by highlighting the significance of psychological safety in an era of rapid change and the benefits it brings to a diverse and knowledge-driven profession.
Looming Economic Downturn? How Do I Balance My Firm’s Needs and the Impact on Our Associates?
Discover the hidden costs of traditional approaches to economic downturns in law firms and learn how to navigate them effectively. This column delves into the repetitive game plan followed by many firms, the consequences of layoffs and inadequate training, and proposes alternative strategies for maximizing talent retention and firm performance. Find out how a holistic approach that balances financial health with employee well-being can lead to long-term success in the legal profession. Read the full article to gain valuable insights on weathering economic storms and building a resilient law firm culture.
Does Your Executive Committee Understand the Merits of a Firm Retreat?
Explore the importance of well-structured retreats for law firms in navigating the challenges of hybrid workplaces. Discover how retreats can foster professional development, team building, and improved organizational culture. Dive into the key elements that make a retreat effective and learn why advanced planning, goal setting, and a substantive agenda are crucial. Uncover the benefits of in-person retreats, including enhanced collaboration, trust-building, and the opportunity to address challenges directly. Find out how law firm leaders can leverage retreats to energize their teams, renew purpose, and strengthen relationships in the ever-changing landscape of work.
Prioritize Belonging and Accessibility in Your Next Position
In this column, Natalie and David discuss important considerations for attorneys who are exploring new job opportunities and want to assess whether they will feel a sense of belonging and thrive in a new firm. Natalie emphasizes the need for intentional firm cultures that foster belonging and support the growth and development of lawyers. She suggests asking insightful questions during interviews and seeking feedback from current employees to gain a better understanding of the firm's culture. On the other hand, David focuses on the practice of accessibility, which involves creating inclusive work environments that anticipate and accommodate the needs of a diverse range of individuals. He provides examples of how accessibility can be practiced within law firms and emphasizes the benefits of universal design and inclusive practices for all employees.
