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How important are speaking skills when a paralegal?
I want to practice law! #law
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Kim’s Answer
Kristin,
Short answer: better to have it and not need it, than to need it and not have it. Fear of public speaking is pretty common. I allowed it to hold me back in career advancement at my first job for 25 years. At my second job, I was required to teach classes 2-3 times a week. yikes! Once I got comfortable doing that (2 years!) I actually began to enjoy it!
In paralegal work, you might think you don't need public speaking skills. But, suppose you join the local paralegal group, and, before you know it, you find yourself in a leadership position. Or they want people to go out to the schools on career day and talk about their jobs. The paralegal associations are often the place where networking connections are made, which can be very helpful when you are looking for another job, so, yes, it is something you should join.
In the workplace itself, perhaps you think you don't need it. But, suppose you were doing research on a case. Suppose your boss wants you to present your findings at a group discussion with the other 3 attorneys involved in the case.
You never know when or where you will need to be able to make a presentation. If this scares you, the thing to do is to meet the challenge head-on. Take speech classes. Join the Toastmasters/Toastmistress organization, which is dedicated to public speaking. There you will get the opportunity to give more speeches.
Avoiding that which we dread leads to stunted careers. There will always be new challenges. Don't hide from them!!
Law is really exciting - good luck in your chosen career field!
Short answer: better to have it and not need it, than to need it and not have it. Fear of public speaking is pretty common. I allowed it to hold me back in career advancement at my first job for 25 years. At my second job, I was required to teach classes 2-3 times a week. yikes! Once I got comfortable doing that (2 years!) I actually began to enjoy it!
In paralegal work, you might think you don't need public speaking skills. But, suppose you join the local paralegal group, and, before you know it, you find yourself in a leadership position. Or they want people to go out to the schools on career day and talk about their jobs. The paralegal associations are often the place where networking connections are made, which can be very helpful when you are looking for another job, so, yes, it is something you should join.
In the workplace itself, perhaps you think you don't need it. But, suppose you were doing research on a case. Suppose your boss wants you to present your findings at a group discussion with the other 3 attorneys involved in the case.
You never know when or where you will need to be able to make a presentation. If this scares you, the thing to do is to meet the challenge head-on. Take speech classes. Join the Toastmasters/Toastmistress organization, which is dedicated to public speaking. There you will get the opportunity to give more speeches.
Avoiding that which we dread leads to stunted careers. There will always be new challenges. Don't hide from them!!
Law is really exciting - good luck in your chosen career field!
Updated
Olesia’s Answer
Hello Kristin!
Based on my experience it depends in what area and company you will work. However, strong communication skills are always helpful in any career. Usually paralegals communicate with courts, outside councils and new clients. To find out case details you should know how to ask the same question in several different ways. Good Luck to you!
Based on my experience it depends in what area and company you will work. However, strong communication skills are always helpful in any career. Usually paralegals communicate with courts, outside councils and new clients. To find out case details you should know how to ask the same question in several different ways. Good Luck to you!
Updated
Misty’s Answer
Hi Kristin - it is very important to have excellent communication skills in most professions, regardless of type. Paralegals often do a lot of the leg work for the attorneys and are expected to report back on their findings. And time is usually of the essence, so being able to efficiently and effectively communicate with them will be a great asset to have. Even if speaking isn't your strength, you could provide valuable written communication skills.