Episode 89-Carol Marzouk-The Executive Lion Tamer

Counsel to Counsel - Career Advice for Lawyers

In law school, we learn how to think like a lawyer. We develop the analytical skills we need to analyze a case, draft documents, research legal issues and provide sound legal advice to our clients. But like many professionals, we don't spend a lot of time studying the human component of the practice of law.

While some of us come to the practice with strong interpersonal skills, many of us have not been in a position to lead prior to entering the profession. As lawyers move up the ranks this can create problems.

Lawyers who are individual contributors may provide outstanding legal services to their clients. But as they move into leadership roles in their firms, they need a different set of skills. And if they don’t have those skills, that can create a bad culture.

Moreover, a bad work environment can cause numerous problems for a law firm. For starters, it can cause turnover which can be costly.

As someone who spent many years earning a living in the recruiting business, I know how much it can cost to replace a good lawyer.

So what can law firms do? To address some of the behaviors which are impeding the success of their firm, my guest, Carol Marzouk, has some answers

Carol is CEO and Chief Executive Lion Tamer for Leadership ‘N Soul. Her business is all about transforming behavior, relationships, and culture in the workplace. She founded it on the principle that nobody has to endure a toxic boss, toxic employees, or a toxic workplace. In this episode, Carol shares some tips for how to improve the culture, your firm and how to lead more effectively.

I met Carol through my ProVisors business network, and I can say with certainty that she is someone who was very insightful and very generous with her time. She is also a pleasure to speak to.

Listen in for a great conversation about how to deal with toxicity in the workplace. Whether you work with toxic people or recognize some of those behaviors in yourself, Carol has some great advice.