The beginning days, weeks and months as a new general counsel or chief legal officer are vital to success. First impressions and chaos control count, and there’s a lot of groundwork to cover when settling in to a position, whether it’s at a different company or the result of a promotion
Establish Relationships With Peers
Whether the new GCs are joining a business for the first time or were promoted internally, they immediately should start to cement relationships with other members of the C-suite, with a focus on the CEO, said Michael Sachs, a partner in the Chicago office of Major Lindsey & Africa who places attorneys at all levels in corporate and university legal departments.“Having that strong relationship of trust and credibility is paramount. Without it, it’s probably not going to be a good pathway. With it, the job could be terrific and achieve amazing results,” he said.
Demonstrate Credibility and Leadership
Without that respect, “you could have a revolt on your hands,” Sachs said. “Or if you’re not working successfully with them, they won’t achieve the results you want.”
Be a Team Player
“It’s important to build relationships with every person around you that’s in your orbit,” Sachs said.
Michael Sachs is a Partner in the Chicago office of Major, Lindsey & Africa. He specializes in placing attorneys at all levels—from junior counsel to general counsel—in corporate and university legal departments