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10/6/2005
Several Jenner & Block partners recently advised Chicago-area female attorneys on how to be a leader and build solid relationships with in-house counsel as part of a day-long seminar entitled, “Taking Charge of Your Career: Best Practices for Women Lawyers and Their Firms.” The seminar, sponsored by the National Association for Women Lawyers (NAWL), was the fifth in a nationwide series designed to help women forge satisfying and rewarding careers in the legal profession.
If women attorneys want to be a leader within their law firm, they must constantly seek out challenging projects, said Partner Linda L. Listrom, Chair of the Firm’s Litigation Committee, who served as a panelist at one of the sessions. As women attorneys’ careers grow, Ms. Listrom advised the attendees to obtain their fair share of important assignments. “Make sure the type of work you do reflects your current ability – know that you’re not the same lawyer you were 15 years ago,” she said.
Partner Charlotte L. Wager also moderated a session entitled, “Client Relationships: How In-House Counsel Select Counsel and Why.” Female general counsel of three major companies joined Ms. Wager in discussing how to build positive client relationships with in-house counsel. Ms. Wager structured the discussion around several topics, including the processes for selection and retention of outside counsel, as well as tips on communicating effectively with in-house counsel.
Ms. Wager and the panelists stressed the importance of cultivating a strong relationship with clients. Professional competence and expertise are the minimum ante, according to panelist Suzanne S. Bettman, Senior Vice President and General Counsel for RR Donnelley. “I want to work with people who truly understand my goals and value my business,” she said.
Partner Stephanie A. Scharf, Immediate Past President of NAWL, provided the seminar’s opening remarks.
Pictured (top): Ms. Wager moderates a discussion on client relationships.
Pictured (middle): Ms. Listrom offers tips on leadership within law firms.
Pictured (bottom): Mrs. Scharf with current NAWL President Lorraine K. Koc at the seminar.
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