In-House Lawyers Leadership Communication: Mastering the Table

Landing a seat at the table as an in-house lawyer is a big win—but it’s only the beginning. The real challenge? Proving you belong there, adding value, and navigating the unspoken expectations that come with it. Effective in-house lawyers leadership communication is crucial to meeting these challenges head-on. It’s a conversation every in-house counsel needs to have, yet one that’s too often ignored.

Today, we delve into the experiences of Yilin Chen, the General Counsel at Hearth, a fintech SaaS company that provides financing solutions for small businesses. Yilin’s journey offers valuable insights into the dynamics of leadership, communication, and the importance of self-empowerment in the legal profession.

Yilin’s career path is anything but traditional. Starting in a small to medium-sized law firm, she worked her way up to partner before transitioning to an in-house position at Hearth. This unique trajectory has equipped her with a diverse skill set and a broad knowledge base, essential for her current role. At Hearth, she is actively building her team, which includes a VP of compliance and product and marketing counsel. As the company grows, so does the legal function, highlighting the importance of adaptability, foresight, and effective in-house lawyers leadership communication in today’s fast-paced business environment.

Yilin describes herself as a “lone Asian American leader,” a title that reflects her journey toward embracing leadership. Initially, she struggled with self-doubt, often feeling like just another member of the team rather than a leader. However, as she took on more senior roles, she realized the importance of adopting a leadership mentality. This shift in mindset empowered her to speak up and advocate for her company’s best interests. Yilin emphasizes that leadership is not just about holding a title; it’s about taking ownership of your voice and the impact it can have on both internal and external communication as an in-house lawyer.

One pivotal moment in Yilin’s career occurred when she was an associate general counsel overseeing capital markets for a hedge fund. During a critical closing process, she raised valid concerns that were dismissed by outside counsel. Initially, she retreated into silence, but upon reflection, she recognized the importance of standing firm in her convictions. This experience taught her that effective in-house lawyers leadership communication is key to being perceived as a leader.

Yilin acknowledges that women, particularly women of color, often face unique challenges in communication. Entering a room where others have established relationships can create feelings of isolation. To bridge this gap, she recommends being solution-oriented and proactive. By presenting ideas that align with business goals, women can earn respect and recognition. Additionally, exhibiting humility while maintaining confidence is crucial. Acknowledging the expertise of others while asserting one’s own perspective fosters a collaborative environment. Effective in-house lawyers leadership communication involves finding the balance between humility and authority.

Self-talk plays a significant role in overcoming feelings of inadequacy. Yilin admits that she has often questioned her place in the room, but she has learned to counter these negative thoughts with affirmations of her worth. Recognizing that she has earned her seat at the table allows her to focus on contributing meaningfully to discussions. This mental shift not only enhances her confidence but also positively influences how her input is received by others, particularly when leveraging in-house lawyers leadership communication in meetings.

Empathy is another essential component of effective communication. Yilin emphasizes the importance of building relationships and understanding the perspectives of others. Taking the time to connect on a personal level, especially in remote settings, can create a more collaborative atmosphere. By acknowledging the challenges faced by colleagues and expressing genuine interest in their experiences, she fosters a sense of camaraderie that enhances teamwork and strengthens in-house lawyers leadership communication across departments.

Thought leadership is not just about external visibility; it also involves influencing internal stakeholders. Yilin believes that building strong relationships across the organization is vital for effective communication. When colleagues trust and respect you, they are more likely to listen to your insights. She advises against being overly argumentative, as this can alienate others. Instead, she encourages lawyers to communicate with humility and confidence, focusing on collaboration rather than confrontation. This approach is vital for any in-house lawyer aiming to lead through effective communication.

Watch the full conversation here:  Notes to My (Legal) Self: Season 2, Episode 14(Yilin Chen)

At Notes to My (Legal) Self®, we’re dedicated to helping in-house legal professionals develop the skills, insights, and strategies needed to thrive in today’s evolving legal landscape. From leadership development to legal operations optimization and emerging technology, we provide the tools to help you stay ahead.

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