The lawyer of the future needs more than just technical expertise. To truly thrive, tomorrow’s legal professionals must focus on developing their strengths, cultivating curiosity, and embracing a broader business mindset.

As the legal profession evolves, leading in-house legal teams are prioritising people development more than ever. Are you curious about the skills and strategies they’re focusing on to ensure long-term success?

In this video, Marie-Louise Crompton from Addleshaw Goddard breaks it down for you. She delves into the essential skills, attitudes, and behaviours that will define lawyers of the future.

Understand your strengths

One of the most important steps is learning how to better understand your personal strengths. Although lawyers receive feedback regularly, using a structured tool can help you go deeper.

A recommended resource is Gallup’s StrengthsFinder. It’s affordable, easy to use, and specifically designed for work-based strengths. By completing a short questionnaire, lawyers can uncover their top talents and start focusing their energy more effectively.

Develop curiosity

Another essential trait for the lawyer of the future is curiosity. Staying curious helps lawyers become better business partners and advisors.

Harvard Business Review (HBR) offers excellent resources for building curiosity. Many articles are freely available, but registering on their website unlocks even more insights. It’s easy to spend time exploring HBR’s wide range of content and get lost in a productive “rabbit hole” of ideas.

Broaden your business mindset

For lawyers looking to evolve into broader business and commercial advisors, Harvard Business Review remains a top recommendation. Few resources challenge thinking and foster new ways of professional development like HBR.

By expanding your knowledge beyond traditional legal frameworks, you can better support clients, anticipate business needs, and drive greater impact.

Final thoughts

To become a lawyer of the future, focus on building strengths, cultivating curiosity, and developing a strong business mindset. Tools like Gallup’s StrengthsFinder and resources like Harvard Business Review can make a huge difference in your career journey.

Ready to shape your future? Start investing in yourself today.


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