This week on The JSA Blog, we’re sharing some news based on what we are seeing in the current marketplace.
You don’t have to be a lawyer to think like one. It’s generally accepted that communication is an important skill to have as an attorney of the law. When we are looking to improve a certain skill, it’s a good idea to draw inspiration from people who are great at that skill, no matter if their field or industry is different than our own.
We can look to doctors, athletes, coaches, CEO’s, teachers or in this case, attorneys for examples of how we can improve our communication skills. Lawyers often need to convey complex legal concepts in a clear and concise way to people of all different walks of life: clients, colleagues, judges and juries. There are some valuable examples to learn from for individuals seeking to improve their own communication abilities.
According to INC.com, here’s why thinking like a lawyer can make you a better communicator:
- It’s all about the best story. Anyone who has watched their share of courtroom dramas has a good grasp that lawyers are telling a story, and trying to persuade those in the courtroom that their story is the best one. This example can be related to sales and marketing. If your ad campaign tells a better story than your competitors, consumers choices will reflect this. Similarly, professionals need to pitch their ideas (story) to upper management, potential customers and stakeholders to convince them that their story, or product/service, is a great one.
- Lean on emotions. Effective communication involves connecting with the audience on an emotional level. Lawyers often use emotion to engage judges, juries, clients, and opposing parties, making their arguments more compelling and memorable. By tapping into emotions such as empathy, concern, or passion, lawyers can resonate with their audience and elicit a stronger response. You can do the same in your own particular profession.
- Value accuracy over seniority. Lawyers know that it doesn’t matter where a particular fact or piece of information comes from, what matters is if it is accurate and helps to tell their story. The key takeaway here is to be open-minded and listen to every voice in the room.
- Protect your reputation. Lawyers are tuned into ethical practices, strategic messaging, professionalism, conflict resolution, adaptability, and relationship building. All of this contributes to lawyers protecting not only their own reputation, but also the firm and clients they represent. By learning from lawyers’ communication strategies and applying these principles in your own interactions, you can enhance your reputation, build trust, and achieve your goals with integrity and authenticity.
For more details and to read the full article from INC.com, click the link below!
