In an era where belonging to the decision-making core is no longer a perk for a general counsel but a necessity, merely having a position in the upper echelons is deemed insufficient. According to legal expert Lisa Lang, a general counsel needs to command substantial authority and influence within the organization to be able to shape its legal policies and strategies, and also in overall operations. This goes beyond just possessing a prestigious title but implies effecting meaningful policy shifts and driving the organization’s success.
Why is it so vital for a general counsel to wield influence in an organization? The most prominent reasons are:
- Effective Decision-Making: Influence ensures the consideration of legal viewpoints leading to well-grounded, pertinent decisions.
- Risk Management: It facilitates the advocacy for risk mitigation strategies, helping deter expensive legal quarrels or penalties.
- Cost Savings: It allows the general counsel to manage legal costs more effectively through prioritizing legal issues, negotiating favorable terms, and implementing budget-friendly legal solutions.
- Compliance and Ethics: Influence helps advocate ethical conduct and guarantee compliance with laws, chiefly in sectors with stern compliance requisites such as healthcare and finance.
- Protecting Reputation: Influence can guide the organization towards lawful and ethical practices, thereby preserving its image for the long-term.
For a general counsel, building influence involves several essential factors such as:
- Legal Expertise: The demonstration of deep understanding of the law and its implications on the organization can foster trust and influence within colleagues and senior management.
- Business Acumen: Comprehension of the organization’s business and aligning legal suggestions with it is crucial.
- Communication Skills: Clear and convincing communication can enhance the general counsel’s credence and influence.
- Proactive Problem-Solving: Anticipating legal issues and providing preemptive solutions can enhance the general counsel’s influence with the organization.
- Strategic Thinking: Offering legal strategies that align with the organization’s broader goals can amplify the general counsel’s influence.
Thus, it becomes evident that a general counsel who merges legal proficiency with business understanding, strong communication skills, and proactive problem-solving can substantially contribute to both their own as well as their organization’s success.
Writer and in-house lawyer Lisa Lang, who contributes thoughtful insights on this subject, believes that these strategies are pivotal for a general counsel’s effectiveness in their leadership role. You can reach Lisa at lisa@lawyerlisalang.com, connect with her on LinkedIn, or follow her on Twitter, @lang_lawyer.