Significant Career Lesson from a Partner at Seyfarth Shaw LLP
Josh, a Partner at Seyfarth Shaw LLP, emphasizes that "your reputation" is the most valuable career asset, particularly in law where interactions are frequent and relationships matter. The positive reputation Josh cultivated, even being described as "too nice" by opposing counsel, ultimately benefits clients by fostering trust and smoother, more productive collaborations.
Reputation Management, Professionalism, Integrity, Networking, Interpersonal Skills
Advizer Information
Name
Job Title
Company
Undergrad
Grad Programs
Majors
Industries
Job Functions
Traits
Josh Rodine
Partner
Seyfarth Shaw LLP
University of California, Santa Barbara (1996)
University of Maryland, College Park (MA, Philosophy 1999); University of Illinois College of Law (JD, 2002)
Philosophy
Law
Legal
Honors Student, Scholarship Recipient, Pell Grant Recipient, Took Out Loans
Video Highlights
1. Maintaining a strong professional reputation is crucial for career success, especially in law where interactions with colleagues and opposing counsel significantly impact outcomes.
2. Treating others with respect and courtesy, even opposing counsel, can create a more productive work environment and improve results. A positive reputation can be a significant asset.
3. Building and protecting one's reputation is an ongoing process. Professional integrity and positive interactions contribute to long-term success and trust amongst peers and adversaries.
Transcript
What is one lesson that you have learned that has proven significant in your career?
The most valuable asset you have, irrespective of the industry, is your reputation. This is particularly true in the legal community.
In the litigation context, you will often be going up against people repeatedly, or against people who know others you have encountered before. Therefore, your integrity and reputation are your most valuable possessions.
This applies not just to your external reputation outside of the firm, whether you're in a law firm or in-house. Really, anyone working in any setting other than as a solo practitioner finds their reputation and integrity to be the most important qualities.
I learned early on from an opposing counsel that the way I dealt with him made things difficult for him. He told me I was too nice, which made it hard for him to approach the case as he ordinarily would.
He would normally be extremely adversarial and confrontational. The fact that I treated him with courtesy and respect, as I would any friend, served my client's interests because he had to work differently with me.
I've also heard from other attorneys that the reputation I have amongst opposing counsel is generally very good. This serves me and my clients because it makes my working life easier and helps my clients attain better results.
The people I oppose trust me, which is not to say I'm deceiving them. It's just naturally how I am. I believe your integrity and reputation are truly the most valuable assets you have.