Key takeaways
- Your transferable skills as a lawyer are your “superpowers.” Both panelists emphasized that fundamental legal capabilities—risk analysis, learning quickly, communication, judgment—matter more than subject matter expertise when pivoting to new roles or strategic initiatives. Melissa noted that her litigation background taught her to “become an expert overnight in anything,” which now enables her to lead AI innovation despite no formal training. These skills position lawyers as strategic partners, not just legal gatekeepers.
- Technology fluency creates career-defining wins, not just efficiency gains. Both panelists emphasized that taking on technology projects creates visibility and strategic positioning that accelerates careers. Micki’s CLO trusted her to solve an HR tool crisis despite no prior experience. Melissa now leads AI innovation for Intel’s legal department—a role that didn’t exist in her original plan. Lawyers who free themselves from repetitive work to take on strategic technology initiatives get noticed and considered for advancement.
- Speaking the language of the business is non-negotiable for advancement. Executives don’t care about “uncapped indemnities” or statutory citations—they care what the company is buying and what risk that creates for business objectives. The shift from lawyer-to-lawyer speak to “What are you trying to do? How can I help?” is what gets you considered for leadership opportunities.
- Career progression requires creating space for strategic thinking. Both panelists acknowledged that lawyers drowning in daily work can’t develop strategically or experiment with new domains. Small wins that free up capacity—whether through technology, delegation, or process improvement—enable the lateral moves and skill development that accelerate careers.
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Ironclad is not a law firm, and this post does not constitute or contain legal advice. To evaluate the accuracy, sufficiency, or reliability of the ideas and guidance reflected here, or the applicability of these materials to your business, you should consult with a licensed attorney. Use of and access to any of the resources contained within Ironclad’s site do not create an attorney-client relationship between the user and Ironclad.
