What are lawyers transferable skills?

GRM Group

Dec 15, 2023

Quite a lot of times we get asked

“I want to move out of the law but I don’t know what I am trained to do”

So, whilst this doesn’t have all the answers, here’s what you should start to consider.

Here are the top 5 transferable skills lawyers possess that can be valuable in various career paths:

1. Communication: Lawyers are masters of communication, both written and verbal. They excel at:

Clear and concise writing: Legal documents, emails, and presentations require precise and unambiguous language, a skill highly sought after in any field.
Persuasive arguments: Lawyers build compelling cases, presenting evidence and arguments to sway judges, juries, or clients. This translates well to sales, negotiation, or public speaking roles.
Active listening and understanding complex information: Lawyers must grasp complex legal concepts and communicate them effectively to clients. This skill is valuable in any role requiring information analysis and communication.

2. Critical Thinking and Problem-Solving: Navigating legal complexities demands strong analytical skills and the ability to:

Analyse vast amounts of information: Lawyers review documents, case law, and evidence to identify key points and build a strong case. This skill is transferable to research, data analysis, and strategic planning roles.
Think creatively and strategically: Finding solutions to legal challenges often requires out-of-the-box thinking and devising winning strategies. This translates well to consulting, project management, and innovation roles.
Attention to detail: Lawyers must meticulously review documents and identify potential issues, a skill valuable in any field requiring accuracy and precision.

3. Research and Information Literacy: Lawyers are skilled researchers, adept at:

Finding and evaluating relevant sources: Legal research requires identifying credible sources, assessing their validity, and extracting key information. This translates well to any role requiring research and information gathering.
Understanding complex legal concepts: Lawyers must navigate intricate legal frameworks and apply them to specific cases. This translates well to any role requiring analysis and application of complex knowledge.
Staying updated with changes in the field: Legal landscapes evolve rapidly, requiring lawyers to continuously learn and adapt. This skill is valuable in any field requiring ongoing learning and development.

4. Time Management and Organisation: Lawyers juggle multiple cases and deadlines, requiring exceptional organisational skills:

Prioritisation and scheduling: Lawyers must effectively manage their time to meet deadlines and fulfil client needs. This skill is valuable in any role requiring multitasking and prioritising tasks.
Project management: Handling complex cases often involves managing multiple tasks and resources, a skill valuable in project management and other leadership roles.
Stress management: Lawyers operate under pressure, making stress management crucial for maintaining focus and productivity. This skill is valuable in any fast-paced and demanding environment.

5. Interpersonal Skills and Negotiation: Lawyers build strong relationships with clients and colleagues, honing their interpersonal skills:

Building rapport and trust: Lawyers must establish trust and rapport with clients, colleagues, and opposing counsel. This skill is valuable in any role requiring teamwork and interpersonal collaboration.
Negotiation and conflict resolution: Lawyers are skilled negotiators, able to reach agreements and resolve disputes effectively. This skill is valuable in sales, business development, and customer service roles.
Empathy and understanding: Lawyers learn to understand diverse perspectives and needs, a valuable skill in any people-oriented career.

So what else can I do?

You are an excellent candidate for many roles but think hard about what you want to do. The next move is going to take a little retraining and lens change.

Communication Skills.

Communication skills are crucial for success in many different fields, and employers are increasingly prioritising them when hiring. Here are some top jobs that demand strong communication skills, categorised by different sectors:

Business:

Marketing Manager: Creating compelling content, pitching ideas to clients, and leading presentations all require excellent communication skills.
Human Resources Specialist: From conducting interviews and handling employee relations to navigating conflict, strong communication is essential.
Sales Representative: Persuasive communication is key to building rapport with clients, understanding their needs, and closing deals.
Public Relations Specialist: Building a positive brand image involves crafting press releases, managing media relations, and effectively communicating with the public.
Business Analyst: Clear communication is essential for gathering requirements, analysing data, and presenting findings to stakeholders.

Technology:

Software Developer: Collaboration with other developers, writing clear documentation, and communicating technical concepts effectively are crucial skills.
Technical Writer: Translating complex technical information into clear and concise user manuals and guides requires strong writing and communication skills.
UX/UI Designer: Understanding user needs and communicating design decisions effectively to developers and stakeholders is key.
Customer Success Manager: Building relationships with clients, resolving issues, and providing excellent customer service require strong communication and interpersonal skills.
Data Scientist: Communicating data insights to non-technical audiences clearly and compellingly is crucial for effective data analysis and decision-making.

Healthcare:

Therapist/Counsellor: Active listening, building rapport, and expressing empathy are critical skills for providing effective therapy and counselling.
Social Worker: Building relationships with clients, families, and communities, and advocating for their needs requires strong communication and interpersonal skills.
Medical Writer: Translating complex medical information into clear and accurate content for patients or healthcare professionals requires strong writing and communication skills.
Public Health Specialist: Communicating public health messages effectively to diverse audiences is crucial for promoting healthy behaviours and preventing disease.

Creative Fields:

Journalist/Reporter: Researching stories, conducting interviews, and writing compelling articles requires strong communication and writing skills.
Public Speaker/Motivational Speaker: Engaging audiences, delivering clear and impactful messages, and connecting with listeners emotionally is essential for success.
Teacher/Professor: Effective teaching involves clear explanations, engaging presentations, and fostering communication and collaboration among students.
Marketing/Advertising Copywriter: Creating persuasive marketing messages, crafting captivating ad copy, and understanding target audiences require strong communication and writing skills.
Content Creator/Social Media Manager: Engaging audiences, writing compelling content, and building online communities all require strong communication and digital storytelling skills.

Critical Thinking and Problem-Solving

Critical thinking and problem-solving are highly sought-after skills across many industries, and they can open doors to a wide range of exciting and fulfilling careers.

Here are 9 top jobs that particularly benefit from these skills:

1. Software Engineer: Designing and developing software solutions requires a deep understanding of complex systems, identifying problems within them, and creating innovative solutions. Strong critical thinking is essential for analyzing user needs, designing efficient algorithms, and debugging code.

2. Data Scientist: Sifting through massive datasets, uncovering hidden patterns, and translating them into actionable insights requires exceptional analytical and problem-solving skills. Data scientists must be adept at asking the right questions, interpreting results, and building models that solve real-world problems.

3. Management Consultant: Helping organisations navigate complex challenges, optimise processes, and achieve strategic goals demands a blend of critical thinking and problem-solving. Consultants need to analyse situations from various angles, identify the root causes of issues, and develop effective strategies for improvement.

4. Investment Analyst: Making informed investment decisions in a volatile market requires critical analysis of financial data, risk assessment, and creative problem-solving to identify promising opportunities and navigate market fluctuations.

5. Lawyer: Navigating the intricacies of the law, building compelling cases, and advocating for clients effectively requires strong critical thinking and problem-solving skills. Lawyers must analyze evidence, identify legal arguments, and craft persuasive strategies to achieve legal victories.

6. Architect: Designing buildings that are aesthetically pleasing, functional, and sustainable demands creative problem-solving and critical analysis. Architects must balance technical considerations, space constraints, and client needs to create innovative and effective architectural solutions.

7. Air Traffic Controller: Maintaining the safety and efficiency of air travel requires a cool head, sharp critical thinking, and the ability to make quick decisions in high-pressure situations. Air traffic controllers need to analyse flight patterns, anticipate potential conflicts, and direct planes safely through complex airspace.

8. Entrepreneur: Launching and growing a successful business requires a constant blend of critical thinking and problem-solving. Entrepreneurs must identify market needs, develop innovative solutions, and adapt to changing market conditions and challenges.

9. Journalist: Uncovering the truth, investigating complex issues, and presenting information clearly and concisely demands strong critical thinking and fact-checking skills. Journalists need to analyse information from multiple sources, identify biases, and craft compelling narratives that inform and engage audiences.

Research and Information Literacy Skills

Research skills are highly versatile and in demand across countless professions.

Here are some top jobs that heavily rely on good research skills, categorised by different areas:

1. Technology:

Data Scientist: Analyse vast datasets to identify patterns, trends, and insights, driving informed decision-making.
Software Engineer: Research and implement new technologies and solutions, ensuring software functionality and efficiency.
User Experience (UX) Researcher: Conduct user research to understand user needs and behaviours, informing design decisions for websites and applications.
Cybersecurity Analyst: Research and analyse potential threats and vulnerabilities to develop effective security measures.
AI Researcher: Explore and develop new applications of artificial intelligence, pushing the boundaries of machine learning.

2. Business and Finance:

Market Research Analyst: Gather and analyze market data to understand consumer behaviour, inform product development, and identify business opportunities.
Financial Analyst: Research and analyse financial markets, companies, and investments to make informed investment decisions.
Business Consultant: Conduct research and analysis to understand client needs and challenges, providing strategic recommendations and solutions.
Competitive Intelligence Analyst: Gather and analyse information about competitors to gain a strategic advantage.
Fraud Investigator: Research and analyse financial transactions to identify and prevent fraud.

3. Healthcare and Science:

Medical Researcher: Conduct research to develop new medical treatments, technologies, and cures for various diseases.
Clinical Research Coordinator: Design, manage, and coordinate clinical trials to test new drugs and treatments.
Public Health Analyst: Research and analyse public health data to identify trends, develop interventions, and inform public health policy.
Environmental Scientist: Research and analyse environmental data to understand environmental challenges and develop sustainable solutions.
Genomics Researcher: Research and analyse genetic data to understand human health and disease, contributing to personalised medicine.

4. Media and Communication:

Journalist: Research and investigate news stories, gathering information through interviews, data analysis, and document review.
Content Strategist: Research and analyse audience data and trends to develop engaging and effective content strategies.
Public Relations Specialist: Research and analyse media trends and audience sentiment to develop effective communication campaigns.
Web Developer: Research and analyse user needs and web development trends to build effective and user-friendly websites.
Copywriter: Research and analyse target audiences and marketing trends to craft compelling and persuasive copy.

5. Education and Social Services:

Professor/Lecturer: Research and develop course materials, conduct academic research, and stay updated on the latest advancements in their field.
Social Worker: Research and analyse client backgrounds and community resources to provide effective social services.
Policy Analyst: Research and analyse data to inform policy decisions and advocate for social change.
Curriculum Developer: Research and analyse educational trends and learning styles to develop effective curriculum materials.
Grant Writer: Research and write grant proposals to secure funding for important social programs and research initiatives.

Time Management & Organisational Skills.

Strong time management and organisational skills are highly sought-after in a wide range of industries.

Here are some top jobs that particularly require these skills:

Project Management:

Project Manager: Overseeing multiple tasks, managing budgets and timelines, and ensuring project completion on time and within budget.
Program Manager: Leading complex initiatives, coordinating resources across teams, and ensuring alignment with organizational goals.
Product Manager: Planning and launching new products, managing development cycles, and ensuring efficient delivery.

Business & Administration:

Executive Assistant: Scheduling appointments, managing calendars, handling emails and communication, and providing support to executives.
Operations Manager: Implementing and optimizing processes, ensuring efficiency and productivity across departments.
Human Resources Manager: Recruiting and onboarding employees, managing payroll and benefits, and ensuring compliance with regulations.

Marketing & Communications:

Social Media Manager: Planning and scheduling content, analyzing data, and optimizing engagement campaigns.
Public Relations Specialist: Managing media relations, organizing events, and crafting brand messages.
Marketing Manager: Developing and executing marketing strategies, managing budgets, and measuring campaign performance.

Finance & Accounting:

Financial Analyst: Analyzing financial data, forecasting trends, and preparing reports for informed decision-making.
Accountant: Maintaining accurate financial records, preparing tax returns, and ensuring compliance with accounting standards.
Auditor: Reviewing financial records for accuracy and adherence to regulations.

Healthcare & Education:

Medical Practice Manager: Overseeing the operational aspects of a medical practice, including scheduling appointments, managing staff, and ensuring patient satisfaction.
Teacher: Planning and delivering lessons, managing student progress, and creating a positive learning environment.
School Administrator: Ensuring the smooth operation of a school, managing budgets, and overseeing staff and student performance.

Tech & Engineering:

Software Engineer: Writing code, testing applications, and ensuring efficient software development.
Data Analyst: Collecting, cleaning, and analyzing data to identify trends and insights.
Engineer: Designing and building complex systems, managing projects, and ensuring adherence to engineering standards.

Interpersonal skills and negotiation skills.

When it comes to jobs that demand both strong interpersonal skills and negotiation skills, you have a wide range of options across various industries. Here are some top contenders to consider:

1. Sales and Business Development:

Sales Representatives: Building trust and rapport with clients, understanding their needs, and negotiating deals are core to success.
Account Executives: Managing relationships with existing clients, upselling, and resolving conflicts require both skills.
Business Development Managers: Identifying new business opportunities, pitching proposals, and securing contracts rely heavily on effective communication and negotiation.

2. Customer Service and Account Management:

Customer Service Representatives: Resolving customer complaints and concerns amicably, building trust, and finding win-win solutions require both empathy and negotiation prowess.
Account Managers: Maintaining positive relationships with assigned accounts, understanding their needs, and advocating for their interests involve strong communication and negotiation skills.
Client Success Managers: Ensuring client satisfaction, managing expectations, and negotiating service agreements leverage both interpersonal and negotiation skills.

3. Human Resources and Recruitment:

Human Resources Specialists: Handling sensitive employee relations, mediating conflicts, and facilitating negotiations during hiring or performance reviews require both skills.
Recruiters: Building relationships with candidates and employers, understanding their needs, and negotiating compensation packages necessitate both interpersonal and negotiation skills.
Talent Acquisition Managers: Attracting and hiring top talent, building strong pipelines, and negotiating contracts all involve effective communication and negotiation.

4. Marketing and Public Relations:

Marketing Managers: Building relationships with media and influencers, pitching stories, and negotiating advertising deals leverage both communication and negotiation skills.
Public Relations Specialists: Managing public image, resolving conflicts, and negotiating with stakeholders require both skills.
Brand Ambassadors: Representing the company, building relationships with customers, and negotiating sponsorship deals require both interpersonal and negotiation skills.

5. Legal and Consulting Fields:

Lawyers: Negotiating settlements, representing clients in court, and building relationships with opposing counsel all require strong interpersonal and negotiation skills.
Consultants: Understanding client needs, proposing solutions, and negotiating contracts are core to success in consulting roles.
Mediators and Arbitrators: Facilitating conflict resolution between parties, building consensus, and reaching agreements require exceptional interpersonal and negotiation skills.

Bonus: Other noteworthy options include positions in finance, healthcare, education, and non-profit organisations where strong interpersonal and negotiation skills are valuable assets for building relationships, securing funding, and managing diverse stakeholders.

This is not meant to be “the answer”, but more to get you thinking in the right direction.

Email me on rob@thegrmgroup.com