Blog: Friday 07 March 2025 - LLG Team

Today, we are holding our Leadership Conference, a much-anticipated event that our President mentioned in her blog last week. On this bright and sunny day, we are focusing on the positive aspects of our roles, starting with an enlightening session by Claire Ward from Anthony Collins. Claire emphasized the significant value that in-house lawyers bring to councils, highlighting the multifaceted skills we possess beyond our legal expertise and set out as follows: -

Advancing from Lawyer to Trusted Advisor

A key theme of the conference is the progression from being a lawyer to becoming a trusted advisor. This journey is not solely about achieving titles such as Monitoring Officer or Chief Executive Officer. True leadership emerges from the skills you possess and the manner in which you conduct yourself within the workplace. While it is important to have a career plan, it is equally crucial to remain open to unexpected opportunities that may arise. Embrace these opportunities, transitioning from an observer to a proactive participant.

Expanding Your Skill Set

To advance in your career, it is essential to actively expand your skill set. Take the initiative, ask pertinent questions, and engage in discussions that others might avoid. In senior meetings, do not assume that everyone knows the answers. Often, the simplest questions lead to the most profound understanding. Confidence and courage in these situations are invaluable and frequently appreciated by colleagues.

Broadening Your Perspective

As lawyers, while adhering to legal confines is important, it is equally vital to understand the broader context. Consider the political landscape, communications strategies, and the interconnectedness of various departments. Always think about stakeholders, partners, and the potential impact on local media. This comprehensive perspective is key to effective leadership within a council.

Transitioning to a Generalist Role

As you progress, you may find yourself transitioning from a specialist to a generalist role. This shift requires comfort with not knowing all the answers. It is imperative to empower your team, delegate tasks effectively, and trust your ability to identify potential legal issues. While maintaining a broad awareness, you will no longer need to possess the detailed knowledge you once did.

Handling Mistakes

Perfection is an unrealistic expectation. Mistakes are a natural part of being human and an authentic leader. The key lies in how you manage these errors—be transparent, take responsibility, and focus on resolving the issues at hand.

Keeping Accurate Records

In today's dynamic work environment, relying solely on memory is impractical. Keeping detailed notes is essential to avoid misquotations and misunderstandings. Accurate record-keeping is crucial for maintaining integrity and accountability.

Engaging in Strategic Roles

It is important to participate in your membership body. Strategic experience can be gained by taking up school governor positions, charities, and non-executive director roles. Even in the absence of legal issues on the agenda, your contributions can add significant value. Do not hesitate to voice your opinions and engage actively.

Authentic Leadership

Authenticity in your role is paramount. Do not attempt to emulate others; instead, be comfortable with your unique approach. Building strong relationships within the council and establishing a support network are critical for success.

Consistent Messaging

Consistency in your advice and messaging is essential. Avoid sugar-coating issues and manage expectations from the outset. After addressing difficult conversations, move forward without dwelling on past challenges.

Maintaining Professional Boundaries

While it is important to be friendly, maintaining professional boundaries is crucial. Respecting roles and positions helps you remain objective and impartial. Avoid groupthink and uphold your integrity.

Supporting Team Growth

Invest time in developing your team to enable their success. Empowering others not only fosters their growth but also enhances your effectiveness as a leader.

Remember, becoming a trusted advisor extends beyond legal expertise; it encompasses leadership, authenticity, and a comprehensive perspective. I wish you all the best in your journey towards professional excellence.

Best wishes,

The LLG Team

Credit and thanks to Claire Ward from Anthony Collins