Be careful of what you say in public places

A reminder for self management and coaching others, that confidential conversations can be overheard, which may lead to a waiver of privilege.  It can happen to anyone, as illustrated in the following political comment:

"To the lobbyist overheard in the Atlanta airport: Sorry to eavesdrop on your cell call.  I won't tell any of the legislators whom you were talking about what you said."

Listen to What You Write: Your Ears Will Tell You if You’re Communicating Ideas Effectively

An article appearing in the American Bar Association journal provides solid advice on effective legal writing for lawyers.  The author's bottom-line advice is:  "If I were reading this for the first time, would I understand everything it says?” The author stresses the importance of clarity, simplicity, brevity, and use of active voice, among other recommendations.

How to Navigate Bonus Season

In-house counsel who manage others may face communications issues related to compensation.  Amy Gallo does an excellent job of discussing challenges associated with communicating bonuses and other compensation (whether up, down, or stagnant).  Her blog contains a useful list of "Principles to Remember," including:  do "connect bonus awards directly to employee accomplishments" and don't "rely on bonuses as your only way to motivate people."  Read Amy's full blog at: How to Navigate Bonus Season.

Winning Over the Jury Before the Trial Begins

JD Schramm, at Stanford's Graduate School of Business, uses his recent experience as a juror to summarize some effective methods to communicate to an audience that is unlikely to favor what we have to say.  His lessons can be used by in-house counsel when communicating with business clients who may be opposed to a recommendation.  Schramm's suggestions include: "attract your audience without overselling," "use light, but appropriate, humor" to "ease tension in the room and to engender people's support," and "honor people's time."  Read the full blog at:  Winning Over the Jury Before the Trial Begins.

Treat everyone with the respect

Too often we hear that in-house counsel (especially those new to the job) can be "condescending."  It is as true for in-house counsel as it is for any leadership position, that we should treat everyone with the same respect.  That is part of the message of Jodi Glickman, who writes:  "You should assume that everyone is your client and apply the same degree of professionalism to every conversation, no matter the audience."   Read Jodi's Harvard Business Review blog post at: Your Boss is Your Client (& Your Colleagues Are Too).