Law is, by its nature, competitive, and to excel in the profession, you’ll need to develop the personal qualities that will give you the edge over your peers. Many of these might be considered soft skills, but they’ll stand you in good stead in the hardest legal conflicts.
- Love of Debate
Have you been told you’re a little argumentative? In law, that’s a positive. A great lawyer is not only skilled in debate but actively enjoys a well-argued discussion.
- Persuasion
Persuasion is a skill that can be trained and developed. Being adept at persuasion will not only help you present your case, but also help you convince the court.
- Good Negotiating Skills
A great lawyer is skilled at negotiating agreements between opposing parties, bargaining and brokering deals, and creating win-win situations.
- Emotional Balance
It’s easy to take arguments personally, and as a lawyer, you may even be threatened. You’ll need to develop a thick skin and learn how to manage your stress and control your emotions.
- Organisation
A lawyer has to win respect, show impeccable professionalism, and never let a client down, so your ability to manage your time and responsibilities efficiently is crucial.
- Persistence
A great lawyer shows resolute persistence and never gives up. Remember, ‘Fall down seven times, stand up eight’.
- Patience
The legal profession requires a lot of waiting around for courts and other legal professionals. You may have to wait hours, weeks or months for a case to be resolved.
- Aggression
Aggression is not the same as violence. For a great lawyer, aggression means being ready to face any challenge, work with agility, and overcome any obstacles to achieve your goals.