Difficult and uncomfortable, but also critical to success

 

For a variety of reasons, most lawyers find it difficult or uncomfortable to give candid feedback to a colleague.  Most partners acknowledge that they have a responsibility to coach and mentor junior lawyers, but they are not sure how to do it.  By contrast, focus groups of law firm associates consistently tell Walker Clark that a close mentoring or coaching relationship with a partner is one of the most important factors in keeping a good associate in the firm -- even more important than compensation.

 

A practical, real-world approach

Coaching and feedback cannot be taught in a single seminar or weekend retreat.  Like any leadership skill, coaching and feedback can only be learned through daily application in each lawyer's own practice. 

 

Coaching and Feedback for Lawyers usually includes two focused business meetings to explore and apply coaching and feedback concepts, methods, and tools specifically designed for use in law firms.  Our discussion relies heavily on best practices research conducted by Walker Clark, an understanding of measurable business results that are desired, and intense discussion of case studies.  The typical program lasts three to four months.

 

Coaching the coaches

 

The case studies come alive as each participant applies the knowledge and skills to his or her daily practice.  The learning moves out of the meeting room and into each lawyer's daily professional life, through a four-to-six month period of individual coaching and assistance provided by a senior Walker Clark business counselor.  Using our Living Case Study methodology, we work closely with each participant to analyze and respond to coaching and feedback responsibilities in his or her daily interactions with other partners, associates, fee earners, and staff.

 

We also offer a custom-designed version of Coaching and Feedback for Lawyers for corporate law departments.

 

Who should participate?

 

Coaching and Feedback is designed for anyone who supervises or manages other professionals in a law firm or corporate law department.  The skills and methods developed in this program are especially important to the business success of partners and other senior lawyers.

Next steps

 

To learn more about Coaching and Feedback for Lawyers, or to request a proposal for your firm, contact Lisa Walker Johnson by email or by telephone at 1.239.466.8370.

 

Click here to learn about other Walker Clark Core Business Skills Development programs.