| THE ONTARIO LAWYERS’ ASSISTANCE PROGRAM Some thoughts on communication--Are lawyers good communicators? “ Nature has given us one tongue, but two ears, that we may hear from others twice as much as we speak .” Epictetus Communication is a fundamental aspect of work in the legal profession. Often we take the process for granted. Effective communication is part of what makes for success and satisfaction. Lawyers often see their job as getting to a solution, fast Consider the components of communicating— Listening, Talking, Reading and Writing and the amount of time spent on each of these tasks . Successful communicating includes the ability to
Lawyers are very good at collecting facts, expressing opinions and presenting arguments. The most successful careers are based on positive relationships with clients in addition to these technical skills. Surveys have shown that what clients look for in lawyers goes well beyond technical proficiency and includes a sense that the lawyer cares about their problems. In law school you were taught to advocate but probably you were not told that the roots of successful advocacy are in listening. The art of listening and development of active listening skills can make for more satisfying work and happier clients and lawyers. If you would like to improve your listening skills try the following active listening exercise: Step 1 Listen to the client’s description of the matter Step 2 Restate his/her premise as you understand it and ask for confirmation Step 3 Ask open-ended follow up questions Step 4 If the client expresses emotions either directly or indirectly acknowledge the feelings Step 5 At the end of the appointment ask if there is anything else he/she would like to say If you have high IQ you are more challenged to listen. It is reported that those with high intelligence comprehend words 3 or 4 times as fast at the average person talks. One barrier to listening is getting bored. Another is the rush to get on with things and planning the next strategy and the legal solution. Remember--The 10 rules for good listening
Like breathing, listening is something we all do, but in doing it consciously, we can make a tremendous difference in our lives and the lives of others . Steven Keeva For more information: Steven Keeva. Transforming Practices: Finding Joy and Satisfaction in the Legal Life Chapter 8, “The Listening Practice” an ABA Journal Book, McGraw Hill, 1999. The Advocates’ Brief Feb.2003
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