Paralegals on Fire! with Ann Pearson: Recent Episodes
Ann Pearson
The Paralegals on Fire podcast show is hosted by Ann Pearson, former paralegal and paralegal manager, turned entrepreneur. Join us each week to get actionable strategies to fast-track your paralegal career. We're going to do that with informative interviews, behind the curtain tips from management, and solo episodes where we take deep dives into areas that matter most to paralegals. Our mission is to give you tangible things that you can walk away with each week that add value to your paralegal career.
Guest host, Linda Odermott, joins us for another great interview in her Paralegal Real Talk contributing series, where she gives us a deep dive into the latest happenings with paralegal licensing, access to justice, and the impact on the paralegal profession. In this episode, Linda interviews Colorado State Supreme Court Justice Melissa Hart. Justice Hart speaks frankly about the access to justice problem and the importance of being in the room if you want to get started on making a change in your state. You don't want to miss this motivating and inspiring episode! Key Takeaways: * The implementation of licensed legal paraprofessionals in Colorado aims to foster a supportive environment for underserved individuals without requiring high legal fees. * New Colorado Rules of Family Procedure are set to streamline the legal process for unrepresented litigants, reducing confusion and intimidation in the courtroom. * Justice Hart advocates for the use of plain language in legal documents to enhance understanding and usability for the general public. * Paralegals have an essential role in pro bono work and can significantly contribute to improving access to legal services for those in need.
Get more free paralegal resources: https://paralegal-bootcamp.com/paralegal-resources
Are you a new (or fairly new) litigation paralegal? Get the Paralegal Boot Camp's FREE strategic guidebook here: https://paralegal-bootcamp.com/strategies/
In this episode, Ann dives into the critical topic of why paralegals should stop working for free and highlights ways to ensure their talents are valued appropriately.
Kicking off with an introduction to the pressing issue of unpaid labor, Ann points out that while gaining visibility in the legal field is essential, professionals must avoid giving away their expertise without compensation to for-profit companies.
Key Takeaways: * Paralegals should not provide their expertise to for-profit companies without proper compensation. * Paid internships offer valuable experience and reflect a fair exchange for the work interns contribute. * Working off the clock could inaccurately reflect the time needed for tasks, possibly affecting the organization and colleagues negatively. * Choosing where to volunteer your time should align with the direct professional benefits, such as supporting nonprofit organizations. * Continuous professional development should be pursued with organizations or causes truly beneficial to one's career path
Get more free paralegal resources: https://paralegal-bootcamp.com/paralegal-resources
Why does it seem like your supervisor cares so much about getting your billable hours in on time? I get it - billing your time can be a drag. But it is your job. I'm going to be the bad guy for this episode. Stick with me!
Billable hours can also be a powerful career tool!
Tune in to learn:
- Why your time entries are under the microscope every month
- How billable hours directly affect your career growth and earning potential
- Ways to shift your mindset to stop dreading time tracking and start owning it
This episode is brought to you by Raise the Bar Media - a weekly newsletter for legal professionals that want clear, relevant updates without the clutter. Each issue delivers practical insights on firm management, legal tech, hiring, billing, and client service, curated by industry pros who get the realities of running a modern legal practice. Join 16,000 lawyers, paralegals, and firm leaders already reading it. Get their newsletter here. Visit the podcast episode page here for all of the resources mentioned: https://paralegal-bootcamp.com/paralegalpodcast-episode154.
What’s really holding back your paralegal career? Spoiler alert: It’s probably not your boss. In this solo episode, I’m diving into five sneaky career stallers that might be quietly sabotaging your growth—and what to do about them. Whether you’re new to the field or a seasoned pro, this episode is your wake-up call to shift gears and reignite your paralegal career path. Grab the free 3-Step Roadmap for new litigation paralegals: paralegal-bootcamp.com/3steps SPONSOR SPOTLIGHT This episode is brought to you by Raise the Bar Media - a weekly newsletter for legal professionals that want clear, relevant updates without the clutter. Each issue delivers practical insights on firm management, legal tech, hiring, billing, and client service, curated by industry pros who get the realities of running a modern legal practice. Get the newsletter here.
Are you a new (or fairly new) litigation paralegal? Get the Paralegal Boot Camp's FREE strategic guidebook here: https://paralegal-bootcamp.com/strategies/ Going to trial for the first time as a litigation paralegal? Deep breaths! This episode is for you. In this episode, I'm sharing the 5 most important things that every litigation paralegal should know before their first trial to help you. And even if you've already been to trial, maybe you need a refresher or want to hear a funny trial war room story! SPONSOR SPOTLIGHT This episode is brought to you by Raise the Bar Media - a weekly newsletter for legal professionals that want clear, relevant updates without the clutter. Each issue delivers practical insights on firm management, legal tech, hiring, billing, and client service, curated by industry pros who get the realities of running a modern legal practice. Get the newsletter here. To get all the information mentioned in the episode, go to this episode page here: https://paralegal-bootcamp.com/paralegalpodcast-episode152 Other episodes/Resources mentioned: Episode 146 with Vincent Ascolese, the video interview version One Lesson I Learned at Trial Litigation Paralegal Boot Camp 3-Step Method to Better Case Management
The AI Boot Camp for Legal Professionals is open for enrollment! Go to ai-trainingbootcamp.com to learn more!
In this solo episode, Ann talks about paralegal mistakes. Let's face it: mistakes happen. Especially when you're new in your paralegal career - or juggling a dozen high-priority tasks at once.
We all make mistakes. What matters most is how we react to them.
In this episode, Ann shares real-world stories of paralegal mistakes (including her own!) and more importantly, how to recover, rebuild trust, and grow stronger from them.
Key quote from Ann: One mistake doesn't define you. And if you did get fired for a single mistake? That says more about the firm than it does about you!
Key Takeaways: * Why learning from your mistakes can be a career accelerator rather than a career-ender. * What NOT to do when you make a mistake is just as important as what to do. * A 3-step framework to help you through any mistake.
Get more free paralegal resources: https://paralegal-bootcamp.com/paralegal-resources
Announcement: Join Ann in the free AI Masterclass on Saturday, April 19th: https://paralegal-bootcamp.com/ai-masterclass
In this episode, we dive into an inspiring conversation with Christina West, a seasoned paralegal and blogger. Ann and Christina discuss the significance of becoming a well-rounded paralegal, drawing from Christina's diverse experiences across different fields of law.
Prefer to watch the podcast episode's video interview: https://youtu.be/SPWxY3ewJRc
Key Takeaways: * Be in the Know: Diversifying your legal knowledge enhances employability and adaptability in different legal settings. * Be a Part of Something Bigger: Engaging in community service and legal associations can ground legal professionals and provide a sense of purpose beyond corporate work. * Be Self-Aware: Understanding one's impact in a team setting is critical for fostering a collaborative and respectful work environment. * Be Courageous: Taking risks and seizing opportunities, even after setbacks, is vital for personal and professional growth.
About the Guest: Christina West is an experienced paralegal from Sussex County, Delaware, known for her versatile background in personal injury law as well as her contributions as a guest blogger for the Paralegal Boot Camp. Initially starting her career at a small firm after a serendipitous meeting during a class action settlement, Christina has since expanded her expertise across various legal areas such as real estate and general paralegal duties. Her journey through different roles and her active participation in community programs have enriched her understanding and skill set, making her a well-rounded paralegal.
Get more free paralegal resources: https://paralegal-bootcamp.com/paralegal-resources
Episode Summary: Join guest host Linda Odermott as she interviews Michael Houlberg, Director of Special Projects at the Institute for the Advancement of the American Legal System (IAALS).
IAALS is a national, independent research organization that innovates and advances solutions that make our justice system more just. They believe that justice and access to the justice system can be a reality for everyone.
This episode highlights IAALS' forward-thinking approach to addressing the access to justice crisis through innovative projects such as regulatory reform initiatives, community justice worker programs, and alternative licensed professional programs.
To learn more about IAALS and their projects: https://iaals.du.edu/
About the Guest: Michael Houlberg is the Director of Special Projects at IAALS, focusing on family justice and regulatory reform work, and promoting greater accessibility, efficiency, and fairness to everyone involved in the legal system. Mr. Houlberg graduated from the University of San Diego School of Law in 2015. He received his Bachelor of Science in Psychology from Brigham Young University and is a member of Psi Chi, the International Honor Society in Psychology.
Paralegal Boot Camp sponsors the Paralegals on Fire! Podcast Show.
Sign up for the five-day Bootcamp Challenge at https://paralegal-bootcamp.com/challenge
In this episode, Ann announces an exciting opportunity—a free five-day Bootcamp Challenge starting soon—offering paralegals a chance to fast-track their career growth easily and effectively. She curates six insightful tips, compiled from top paralegal minds, designed to nurture growth, adaptability, and invulnerability to common industry pitfalls.
Key Takeaways: * Embrace Multiple Career Paths: Stay open to different practice areas as your first job might not be the right fit. * Maintain Composure: Project calmness under pressure to prevent increased stress for both you and your attorney. * Verify Information: Double-check procedures and information using authoritative resources, not hearsay or social media. * Stay Updated on Technology: With rapid technological changes, integrating tools like AI can give paralegals a competitive edge. * Prepare Early for Trials: Start your trial notebook immediately to stay organized throughout the life of a case.
If you want to watch the video interview on YouTube: https://youtu.be/8Ro8P0SLV3E
"There is no failure if you don't quit," is a recurring lesson in Kat's life, driving her to face challenges head-on and adapt to achieve her goals.
In this interview, Kat shares:
- The powerful story behind why she’s taking on this challenge
- How she overcame adversity, lost nearly 100 pounds, and built confidence along the way
- The reality of searching for a job as a legal assistant in today’s market
- Career advice for legal professionals looking for their next opportunity
- How you can support her mission and help raise funds for domestic abuse survivors
Want to follow Kat’s journey?
Subscribe to her YouTube channel: KatWoman Hikes Follow her on Instagram, TikTok & Facebook: @KatWomanHikes Donate to help fund her journey. Most of the hikers on the Appalachian Trail don't make the journey because they run out of funds! Even just $5 or $10 can help buy Kat a sandwich or a night in a hostel on this hike from Georgia to Maine.
About the Guest: Kat Bell: Kat Bell is an experienced legal assistant with over 27 years in the legal field. She is also an aspiring Appalachian Trail hiker, driven by a passion for exploring the outdoors and inspiring others through her journey. With an educational background in legal secretarial studies where she graduated top of her class, Kat has faced personal challenges, including overcoming a background of abuse, and is now focused on achieving her dream of hiking the entire Appalachian Trail from Georgia to Maine. She is a staunch advocate for domestic abuse survivors and is engaging in this monumental hike to support related charitable causes.
Get more free paralegal resources: https://paralegal-bootcamp.com/paralegal-resources
About the Guest:
Vincent Ascolese graduated from St. John’s University in 1998 with a bachelor’s degree in paralegal studies, an ABA approved program. He is a current Paralegal Association of New Jersey member, a previous member of the Board to the New Jersey Paralegal Convention, and a previous member of the Paralegal Committee of the New Jersey State Bar Association. He was also a past Trustee-at-Large on the PANJ Executive Board. He currently works as a paralegal for McElroy, Deutsch, Mulvaney & Carpenter, LLP.
In this episode, Ann sits down with Vincent Ascolese, a paralegal who reveals how integrating mindfulness into daily routines can drastically improve work productivity and mental health, especially for professionals in high-pressure careers like paralegals. This conversation navigates through the significance of practicing mindfulness during both high and low-stakes periods, reinforcing the notion that a consistent mindfulness practice can boost performance during demanding times.
Key Takeaways: * Mindfulness for Stress Management: Implementing mindfulness techniques during low-stress periods can enhance performance during more stressful times. * Practical Mindfulness Strategies: Vincent emphasizes informal ways to practice mindfulness at work, like being conscious during daily tasks such as climbing stairs or going for a brief walk. * Improving Productivity: Practicing mindfulness can help reduce mistakes, enhance focus, and improve overall productivity by narrowing one's focus and minimizing distractions.. * Mindfulness Apps and Resources: Insight Timer, Headspace, and Calm are recommended apps to guide and sustain mindfulness practice.
Get more free paralegal resources: https://paralegal-bootcamp.com/paralegal-resources
Watch the video Interview Here. About the Guest: Nikole Nelson is the founding CEO of Frontline Justice and former Executive Director of the Alaska Legal Services Corporation. She has dedicated 25 years to enhancing access to justice, especially in rural communities, by developing innovative legal aid solutions that are community-led and people-centered. Nikole was instrumental in launching the Partnering for Native Health initiative, a medical-legal partnership that received the 2019 World Justice Challenge Award. She has also driven significant reforms, including changes to unauthorized practice of law regulations that benefit justice workers in Alaska. Nikole is actively involved as a member of the American Bar Association's Standing Committee on Legal Aid and Indigenous Defense (SCLAID) and the Legal Services Corporation's Rural Justice Task Force.
Episode Summary: In this episode, Linda Odermott, host of the Paralegal Real Talk series, introduces Nikole Nelson, a pioneering advocate in the field of legal aid. Nikole shares insights into the development and success of Alaska’s groundbreaking Community Justice Worker (CJW) project. Alaska's unique challenges, with vast remote areas and limited legal resources, led to innovative solutions that leveraged local community structures in bridging the justice gap. Nikole discusses how collaborations with the healthcare sector inspired strategies that train non-attorneys to deliver vital legal aid.
The episode dives deeply into how these efforts first began with the establishment of the Partnering for Native Health project — a collaboration with the Alaska Native Tribal Health Consortium — and how this initiative achieved remarkable success by extending legal assistance through trained community justice workers. This innovative model of delivering legal aid has not only enhanced accessibility in underserved regions but also set a precedent across multiple states now looking to emulate Alaska’s success. Nikole passionately describes the vision of Frontline Justice to expand this approach nationwide, ensuring that every community receives the legal care they need.
Key Takeaways: * Alaska's Community Justice Worker project aims to bridge the justice gap by training non-attorney community members to provide essential legal services in rural and underserved areas. * The success of this program leaned significantly on partnerships with existing healthcare infrastructures, demonstrating the power of cross-sector collaboration. * Nikole Nelson emphasizes the importance of starting pragmatic, incremental steps in addressing legal needs rather than attempting to solve all complex legal problems at once. * The program has enabled millions in SNAP benefits to be accessed and has seen a 100% success rate in the cases it has taken on. * The discussion expands into the national landscape, where Frontline Justice is helping other states look to adopt similar community-led justice initiatives.
Get more free paralegal resources: https://paralegal-bootcamp.com/paralegal-resources
Feeling left behind while you watch AI transform the legal industry? Learn AI from the Paralegal Boot Camp.
This week, Ann introduces a groundbreaking discussion about AI's role in redefining the paralegal profession. Pulling in content generated by AI tools, this episode delves into how AI technologies are reshaping traditional legal tasks and what that means for paralegals looking to stay ahead of the curve. If you're curious about how AI will impact the future of legal work, this episode is a must-listen. The episode presents a fascinating dialogue, created through AI, between two virtual speakers exploring the advent of artificial intelligence in the legal field.
Key Takeaways: * AI is transforming the legal profession significantly, especially in tasks like document review and legal research. * Embracing AI tools enhances efficiency and value, creating a win-win situation for clients and legal professionals alike. * Ongoing education and AI literacy are crucial for paralegals to remain competitive and relevant in their careers. * Ethical considerations must be addressed to ensure that AI is used responsibly and effectively in the legal field.
Get more free paralegal resources: https://paralegal-bootcamp.com/paralegal-resources
Sign up for the AI Bootcamp here!
Welcome to 2025! In this episode, Ann dives into the landscape of the paralegal profession in the year 2025, exploring the current and predicted trends that will shape the roles and opportunities for paralegals. Ann critiques some misleading portrayals of the profession found in various articles and emphasizes the importance of a realistic understanding of what it means to be a paralegal today. She tackles topics like stress, job satisfaction, and career advancement, striving to paint an accurate picture for aspiring and current legal professionals.
Key Takeaways: * Misleading Narratives: Ann Pearson discusses the discrepancy between articles' portrayal of the paralegal profession and the real-life experiences of stress and limited advancement opportunities. * Growth Areas in 2025: Significant growth is expected in niche areas like cybersecurity, artificial intelligence, intellectual property, and cannabis law, driven by societal changes and technological advancements. * AI Skills in Focus: Paralegals equipped with AI skills stand a better chance at thriving, as AI continues to transform the legal sector, from document reviews to litigation strategies. * Work Environment Importance: A positive workplace culture is increasingly prioritized, with many paralegals seeking fulfilling, respectful relationships with their colleagues and managers. * Trend Analysis: Despite the drop in remote work opportunities, paralegals must focus on pursuing roles that offer strong benefits, career growth, and work-life balance.
Litsten to Episode 98: Paralegal to Compliance Officer here.
Get more free paralegal resources: https://paralegal-bootcamp.com/paralegal-resources
Feeling left behind while you watch AI transform the legal industry? Learn AI from the Paralegal Boot Camp.
In this episode, Ann delves into the critical importance of career security over job security for legal professionals. As she prepares to launch the "AI Bootcamp" on January 20th, Ann shares invaluable advice on embracing new technology trends, specifically artificial intelligence, and reminisces about the crucial shift towards E Discovery in 2010. The transcript underscores the need for paralegals to remain adaptable and proactive in the ever-evolving legal landscape by prioritizing continuous professional development.
Ann emphasizes the importance of integrating AI into legal practice, drawing parallels with past technological shifts and highlighting the potential risks of lagging behind. Ann also discusses ABA Formal Opinion 512, which stresses the need for technical competence, client confidentiality, internal policy setting, and independent verification in the use of AI, illustrating these points with practical examples relevant to paralegals and legal assistants.
Key Takeaways: * Prioritize career security over job security by continually enhancing your skill set beyond your current job responsibilities. * Understanding and integrating AI into your legal practice is crucial for staying competitive as a legal professional. * Independent verification is crucial when using AI tools, much like verifying work delegated to colleagues. * Embrace the use of AI technology proactively, even if your workplace hasn't fully integrated it yet, to avoid future career disadvantages.
Get more free paralegal resources: https://paralegal-bootcamp.com/paralegal-resources
View the Paralegal Bootcamp Cyber Deal Week here
Watch the video of the 10 Career-Boosting Principles Webinar here
In this episode of the Paralegals on Fire podcast, Ann Pearson provides paralegals with ten career-boosting principles aimed at elevating their professional lives. Celebrating her journey from a paralegal to founder of Paralegal Boot Camp, Ann structures the episode around practical insights borne out of her extensive experience in the field.
Ann delves into the importance of principles such as doing work you enjoy, prioritizing physical and mental health, and maintaining a professional demeanor. She emphasizes that traits, skills, and habits are essential, but principles form the guiding beliefs that shape one's career. By consciously building these principles, paralegals can navigate their careers with determination and resilience. Ann also speaks to the significance of having a growth mindset—one that is flexible and open to continuous learning—as well as creating a professional environment that demands respect and accountability. The implications of a negative professional association are discussed, stressing the importance of selecting colleagues wisely and building a workplace culture that supports success.
Key Takeaways: * Do Work You Enjoy: Find a role, practice area, and firm size that align with your passion to avoid burnout and excel in your career. * Prioritize Health: Establish mental and physical health routines as foundational beliefs to ensure long-term career success. * Maintain Professionalism: Present yourself professionally in attire, conversation, and behavior to convey confidence and respect. * Cultivate a Growth Mindset: Continually seek learning opportunities to enhance your paralegal skills and surpass career limitations. * Demand and Earn Respect: Create a work atmosphere where respect is mutual and foundational to professional interactions.
Get more free paralegal resources: https://paralegal-bootcamp.com/paralegal-resources
In this episode, Linda Odermott delves into the evolving landscape of the legal profession, focusing on regulatory reforms aimed at mitigating the access to justice (A2J) crisis. Linda brings to light essential discussions surrounding the profession's impact on justice accessibility, noting that in 75% of cases, one side is self-represented. She references research from Nora Freeman Angstrom and James Stone on how historical events like the legal crackdown on early 20th-century auto clubs contributed to today's crisis.
Key Takeaways: * Regulatory sandboxes in states like Utah and Arizona are proving to be successful models for legal reform, enabling non-traditional actors to offer legal services and addressing the access to justice gap. * The Licensed Paralegal Practitioner (LPP) program in Utah provides essential legal services in areas such as family law, landlord-tenant disputes, and debt collection, offering alternatives in underserved areas. * Linda argues that opposition to these reforms often stems from fears of market disruption but highlights data supporting the reforms' efficacy and safety. * Data from Utah's sandbox programs indicate rare incidences of consumer harm compared to traditional lawyer services, bolstering the argument for broader reform.
View the Utah Licensed Paralegal Practitioner Program here
Veiw the Certified Advocate Partners Program here
View the Utah Office of Legal Services Innovation December 2023 report here
View the Legal Innovation After Reform: Evidence From Regulatory Change article here
View the essay Death and Ethics: Suffocating or Saving Nonlawyer Practitioners with Lawyer Ethics here
Get more free paralegal resources: https://paralegal-bootcamp.com/paralegal-resources
Join the Paralegal Playbook: 10 Career-Boosting Principles Webinar here!
View the episode on time management mentioned in the episode here!
This episode puts the spotlight on career-boosting principles tailored for paralegals. Mark your calendars for an exclusive free webinar on November 20th, titled "Paralegal Playbook: 10 Career Boosting Principles." The episode provides a sneak peek into the webinar, promising specialized insights and actionable steps to elevate your career. Whether you’re a beginner or a seasoned professional, discover how adopting these principles can help you navigate your career more effectively and strategically, ensuring long-term success.
Key Takeaways:
- Attention to detail distinguishes a good paralegal from a great one.
- Principles guide career direction, habits are repeated actions, traits are inherent characteristics, and skills are learned abilities.
- Attention to detail is a skill that can be improved over time, regardless of a paralegal's initial capabilities.
- Effective attention management—focusing on tasks without distractions—is just as important as time management.
Get more free paralegal resources: https://paralegal-bootcamp.com/paralegal-resources
In this episode, learn how taking complete ownership—not just completing tasks—can elevate your professional standing. Explore why ownership builds trust with attorneys, how it enhances job security and opens doors for career progression, and practical ways to implement this mindset in your daily work. By adopting a proactive approach and focusing on continuous improvement, you can position yourself as an invaluable asset to any legal team.
View the video tip for how to be a proactive paralegal here!
View and sign up for the "Project Management for Paralegals" Program here!
Key Takeaways:
- Taking Ownership: Paralegals should fully own their work, treating projects as their responsibility from start to finish.
- Act as a Project Manager: Go beyond merely completing tasks; approach assignments with a project management mindset to enhance accountability and success.
- No Excuses: Excuses are not well-tolerated in legal environments. Paralegals should focus on problem-solving rather than explaining what went wrong.
- Anticipate Needs: Proactively anticipate potential issues or needs within a project rather than waiting for instructions.
- Exceed Expectations: Going the extra mile, even on small tasks, helps paralegals stand out. It’s often noticed and appreciated by attorneys.
Get more free paralegal resources: https://paralegal-bootcamp.com/paralegal-resources
In this episode, guest host Linda Odermott delve into regulatory reforms in the legal profession. Linda discusses significant changes, including the introduction of regulatory sandboxes in states like Arizona, which allow for innovative legal services to be tested in a controlled environment. The episode highlights Arizona's initiatives to improve access to justice through alternative business structures and the creation of licensed paraprofessionals. These reforms aim to diversify legal service providers and enhance the availability of legal support, particularly in underserved areas.
Key Takeaways:
- There is a push for legal regulation reform due to high costs and limited access to legal services, with federal regulations estimated to cost around $2.1 trillion annually.
- Arizona introduced a "regulatory sandbox" allowing businesses to operate with reduced regulations for a set period to encourage innovation while maintaining consumer protection. After the trial, lawmakers evaluate what worked.
- Arizona's LP program allows non-attorney professionals to provide specific legal services, such as document preparation, giving legal advice, and court appearances, in limited practice areas like family law, civil law, administrative law, and misdemeanor criminal law.
- Two-thirds of Arizona counties are considered "legal deserts," with fewer than one lawyer per 1,000 residents, further necessitating reforms to improve access to legal assistance.
- Alternative Business Structures allows legal practice entities to be owned or managed by non-lawyers, provided only licensed lawyers practice law. LegalZoom, for example, has entered Arizona’s legal market through an ABS license.
- Additional areas for LPs to practice, such as juvenile dependency and adoption, are under consideration, indicating ongoing evolution in Arizona's approach to legal service delivery.
Get more free paralegal resources: https://paralegal-bootcamp.com/paralegal-resources
You can find the episode mentioned, Episode 23: A Refresher of the 7 C's of Paralegal Communication here!
In this episode, Ann discusses seven common communication mistakes paralegals should avoid. Drawing from her experiences and insights from hiring managers and HR professionals, Ann emphasizes the importance of effective communication in the legal profession. Key mistakes include engaging in office gossip, disrespecting colleagues' time, using informal email communication, blurring social media boundaries, discussing client files in public, taking communication personally, and poor phone etiquette.
Key Takeaways:
- Respect colleagues' time and appropriate communication timing
- Maintain professionalism in email communication
- Set boundaries on social media with supervisors and colleagues
- Take confidentiality seriously regarding client information
- Encourage knowledge sharing and professional development within the paralegal community
Get more free paralegal resources: https://paralegal-bootcamp.com/paralegal-resources
Learn more about the Litigation Associate Training here: https://LitigatorLaunchPad.com
In this episode, Ann Pearson interveiws Olivia Saint Clair Long, a managing partner at her Illinois law firm. They explore the critical traits that contribute to the success of paralegals and associates, emphasizing attention to detail, effective communication, and ownership of work.
Key Takeaways:
- Attention to detail, effective communication, and ownership of work are essential for paralegals and associates.
- Fostering teamwork and a supportive atmosphere is crucial.
- Being proactive and engaged is vital for career advancement in the legal profession.
Get more free paralegal resources: https://paralegal-bootcamp.com/paralegal-resources
In this episode of the Paralegals on Fire podcast, guest host Linda Odermott delves into Washington State's Limited License Legal Technicians (LLLT) program. She discusses its inception, aimed at improving access to affordable family law services, and the challenges it faced, including political opposition and complex requirements. Despite initial successes, the program was ultimately sunsetted in 2020.
Linda highlights lessons learned, emphasizing stakeholder engagement, incremental growth, and clear success metrics. The episode underscores the evolving role of paralegals in addressing the access to justice crisis.
Key Takeaways:
- Promote buy-in from all corners of the legal community and the public.
- Ensure a wide range of voices in the program's development.
- Plan for gradual growth and secure diverse funding sources.
- Invest in attracting both applicants and clients.
- Set clear goals and metrics for success.
- Facilitate transitions for seasoned paralegals to boost participation.
Get more free paralegal resources: https://paralegal-bootcamp.com/paralegal-resources
In this exciting episode, Kristy Medo dives into the basics of artificial intelligence, specifically tailored to beginners with no prior experience. She discusses her personal journey with AI tools like ChatGPT, sharing insights on how to navigate and utilize these digital advancements effectively. Kristy compares the transformative potential of AI to the historic leap from corded telephones to mobile phones, emphasizing AI’s profound impact on both personal and professional realms.
Kristy also tackles the unique challenges that students and professionals face when integrating AI into their routines. She highlights the importance of developing AI literacy and being cautious of data privacy and the accuracy of AI-generated content. By guiding listeners through an engaging exercise of creating a personalized biography using ChatGPT, Kristy showcases the tool's versatility and the nuances of adjusting tone to achieve authentic communication. Her narrative is not just informative but also scattered with humor, making the complex topic of AI accessible and enjoyable.
Key Takeaways: * AI Literacy Importance: Understanding how to use and evaluate AI is crucial for students and professionals alike. * Data Privacy and Accuracy: Be mindful of what information is shared with AI tools and always verify the accuracy of the content generated. * Practical Exercise: Kristy walks through creating a personalized biography using ChatGPT to familiarize users with the platform. * Adjusting Tone and Authenticity: Experimenting with tone in AI-generated content can help align the output with personal communication styles.
Get more free paralegal resources: https://paralegal-bootcamp.com/paralegal-resources
In this episode, Ann delves into the correlation between physical wellness and reducing burnout. By emphasizing the importance of prioritizing physical health, she provides practical tips and strategies to mitigate the effects of prolonged stress. From the significance of sleep to the benefits of strength training and grounding, Ann offers actionable advice to enhance overall well-being and resilience against burnout.
Key themes covered include the impact of sleep on mental and physical recovery, the importance of regular physical activity, nourishing the body with protein-focused diets, steering clear of ultra-processed foods, and practicing grounding techniques for stress reduction.
Key Takeaways: * Prioritize getting a minimum of 7 hours of sleep per night for optimal mental and physical recovery. * Aim for 7000 steps per day to incorporate physical activity into your routine and combat the sedentary lifestyle. * Engage in strength training at least three times a week to improve muscle mass and reduce anxiety levels. * Focus on a protein-focused diet to improve muscle synthesis and sustain energy levels throughout the day. * Practice grounding techniques, such as standing barefoot on the ground or touching nature, to reduce stress, inflammation, and improve overall well-being
Get more free paralegal resources: https://paralegal-bootcamp.com/paralegal-resources
In this episode, Linda Odermott joins as a Guest Host for the podcast. Linda discusses the importance of paralegal licensing and its impact on the legal profession. She shares insights on the evolving landscape of paralegal licensing programs.
Linda is an NFPA certified paralegal, an RP, and an Oregon certified paralegal. She has extensive experience working on access to justice initiatives and regulation reforms, particularly in licensed paralegal programs.
Linda mentions many articles and publications during this episode! If you want to read those and get other resources, visit the blog page for this episode here:
Get more free paralegal resources: https://paralegal-bootcamp.com/paralegal-resources
Are you stuck in a paralegal position that you don't like and wondering if you even want to be a paralegal?
What if it's not the paralegal career and it's more about the practice area you're working in or the team you're working with?
In this podcast episode, it's a replay from a couple of years ago that you're going to want to listen to for some inspiration!
This is also a great example of what to do if you left the paralegal profession for a few years and want to get back into it but not sure how to do that.
Lisa is the PERFECT example of why you should not give up on your paralegal career! She did (temporarily) and is now in a paralegal job that she absolutely loves.
Get more free paralegal resources: https://paralegal-bootcamp.com/paralegal-resources
Episode Summary: The Paralegals on Fire podcast features guest host Kristy Medo, a paralegal student sharing actionable strategies for current paralegal students or recent graduates entering the field. Kristy draws from her experience transitioning from the wellness industry to pursuing a paralegal career and landing a remote paralegal position. She encourages students to proactively prepare for their future roles by building resumes, creating LinkedIn profiles, and engaging with industry professionals early on to enhance their marketability.
Kristy emphasizes the importance of thinking like a paralegal even during the student phase, asking questions to gain clarity, and utilizing resources like the podcast for supplemental education. Her journey exemplifies how effective networking, being honest about skill levels, and demonstrating resourcefulness can lead to securing valuable opportunities in the paralegal field.
Key Takeaways: 1. Build a comprehensive resume and LinkedIn profile as a student to showcase relevant skills and experiences. 2. Proactively reach out to industry professionals, attend networking events, and engage in conversations to build connections. 3. Develop a web portfolio with work product samples early in the program to demonstrate skills and progress. 4. Embrace the student phase to ask questions, seek clarity, and utilize available resources for continuous learning. 5. Transitioning to a paralegal role requires honesty about skill levels, willingness to learn, and problem-solving abilities.
Get more free paralegal resources: https://paralegal-bootcamp.com/paralegal-resources
In this episode, Ann delves into the power of curiosity as a paralegal superpower and its role in driving success in the legal profession. Drawing from her own experiences as a paralegal and paralegal manager, Ann emphasizes the importance of curiosity in fostering problem-solving skills, embracing a growth mindset, and utilizing technology to enhance career development. With practical tips and real-life examples, Ann highlights how curiosity can propel paralegals towards continuous learning and professional growth.
👉 Key Takeaways: 1. Curiosity serves as a crucial trait for paralegals, enabling them to investigate, learn, and adapt effectively in various legal scenarios. 2. Embracing a growth mindset allows paralegals to view challenges as opportunities for growth and innovation, ultimately fostering curiosity and enhancing decision-making skills. 3. Leveraging technology mindfully can support paralegals in expanding their knowledge base, conducting in-depth research, and staying ahead in an ever-evolving legal landscape. 4. Implementing the five w one h method and delving deeper into workflows and processes can optimize efficiency, organization, and performance in paralegal roles. 5. Continuous learning and exploration through resources like books and podcasts on curiosity at work can nurture curiosity, drive action, and lead to impactful professional development.
Get more free paralegal resources: https://paralegal-bootcamp.com/paralegal-resources
This podcast episode was also recorded as a video! You can watch it on the Paralegal Boot Camp's YouTube channel here: https://youtu.be/Ns1i8kpeyQw
Technology changes are an opportunity for paralegals to take the lead and be the go-to person on the legal team. AI is that time for paralegals now!
Ann Pearson interviews Jim Sullivan, an attorney-turned-tech person, who is also the co-founder of eDiscovery AI.
Jim gives us insightful tips and thoughts on how AI might affect paralegals and others in the legal industry.
👉 Key Takeaways:
- Understanding AI vs. Predictive Coding: Learn the differences and advantages of AI over traditional predictive coding in document review.
- AI for All Firm Sizes: Discover how both large and small law firms can implement AI to improve efficiency and reduce costs.
- Practical Uses of AI: See how AI can assist paralegals with everyday tasks, from drafting emails to brainstorming legal arguments.
- Future-Proof Your Career: Understand why staying ahead of AI trends is essential for career security and professional growth.
Connect with Jim Sullivan: https://ediscoveryai.com
Get more free paralegal resources: https://paralegal-bootcamp.com/paralegal-resources
In this episode, Ann delves into the essential numbers that paralegals working in law firms with billable hour requirements must track. She breaks down the key metrics of utilization, realization, and productivity, offering valuable advice on how paralegals can improve these numbers and enhance their performance in a competitive legal environment.
To see the calculations that Ann goes through in this episode, you can see them here: https://paralegal-bootcamp.com/paralegal-billable-hours-numbers-to-know/
Key Takeaways: * Improving utilization, realization, and productivity requires accurate time tracking, effective communication with billing partners, and strategic delegation of tasks to optimize workflow. * Embracing billable hours as an integral aspect of the job role can lead to enhanced performance, increased job security, and career advancement opportunities for paralegals.
Did you know that Ann has a course to help take the stress out of meeting your billable hour requirement?
It's the Billable Hour Boot Camp and it's available here: https://paralegal-bootcamp.thinkific.com/courses/billable-hour-boot-camp-for-legal-professionals
She also teaches it as a live 5-part webinar series for law firms wanting to provide this training to their entire team. Learn more about the training here.
Be the first to get notified of the AI bootcamp by going here.
Learn how to make money on the side by applying to develop a course here.
In this episode, Ann delves into the delicate topic of receiving counteroffers from employers when attempting to transition to a new role. She shares personal experiences and insights to caution against seeking counteroffers solely for a salary increase and highlights the potential pitfalls of this strategy.
By analyzing the reasons why firms might not provide counteroffers, Ann sheds light on the dynamics of such situations and advises listeners on how to approach salary negotiations sensibly.
Key Takeaways: * Avoid seeking counteroffers from employers solely for a salary increase, as it may lead to unintended consequences. * Understand the various reasons why firms might not provide counteroffers, such as budget constraints or firm policies. * Approach salary negotiations with transparency and honesty, focusing on the actual value and growth opportunities in a new role.
Are you a paralegal who wants to skip the learning curve and kickstart your career?
The Paralegal Boot Camp offers online courses to fast-track your paralegal career and cut YEARS off the typical learning curve that most new paralegals encounter when starting their careers. View our course offerings to see how we've helped thousands of paralegals like you.
Website: https://Paralegal-BootCamp.com
For more free paralegal resources, visit our Paralegal Resources page on the website.
Be the first to get notified of the AI bootcamp by going here.
Learn how to make money on the side by applying to develop a course here.
If you're interested in guest hosting, reach out to Ann on LinkedIn here.
In this episode, Ann delivers a series of exciting announcements, including a switch to Tuesday releases, the introduction of guest hosts on the podcast, plans to start recording video episodes, updates on new courses, and an intriguing project on creating online courses for paralegals. From practical strategies for paralegal success to innovative opportunities for skill development, this episode sets the stage for upcoming changes and enhancements to the podcast.
Key Takeaways: * Ann Pearson introduces guest hosting opportunities for paralegals specializing in various practice areas. * The podcast will transition to video recordings, offering a new platform for engaging with the audience. * Exciting new courses, including an AI Bootcamp for paralegals, are in the works to enhance professional development. * Listeners can sign up for newsletters and stay updated on upcoming courses and opportunities for growth in the legal field.
Are you a paralegal who wants to skip the learning curve and kickstart your career?
The Paralegal Boot Camp offers online courses to fast-track your paralegal career and cut YEARS off the typical learning curve that most new paralegals encounter when starting their careers. View our course offerings to see how we've helped thousands of paralegals like you.
Website: https://Paralegal-BootCamp.com
For more free paralegal resources, visit our Paralegal Resources page on the website.
In this episode, host Ann discusses the topic of making mistakes as a paralegal and how to handle them. She emphasizes the importance of acknowledging and assessing the mistake, notifying the attorney, fixing the mistake, and reflecting and learning from it. Pearson shares a cautionary tale of a secretary who tried to hide a mistake and the negative consequences that followed.
Key Takeaways: * Mistakes happen to everyone, even attorneys, and it's important to acknowledge and address them rather than trying to hide or cover them up. * When a mistake occurs, it is crucial to assess how it happened and take responsibility for it. Avoid making excuses or blaming others. * Communicating the mistake to the attorney should be done with honesty, professionalism, and a focus on potential solutions. * Fixing the mistake may involve correcting documents, amending filings, or taking immediate steps to mitigate the impact on clients or cases. * Reflection and learning from the mistake is essential to prevent similar errors in the future. Consider implementing workflows or procedures to avoid repeating the same mistakes.
Are you a paralegal who wants to skip the learning curve and kickstart your career?
The Paralegal Boot Camp offers online courses to fast-track your paralegal career and cut YEARS off the typical learning curve that most new paralegals encounter when starting their careers. View our course offerings to see how we've helped thousands of paralegals like you.
Website: https://Paralegal-BootCamp.com
For more free paralegal resources, visit our Paralegal Resources page on the website.
What is Panic Mode Paralegal? It's that state you're in when you're new to your career, you haven't had any kind of structured on-the-job training, the attorney brings you another last-minute piecemeal project that needs to be done, and you panic, wondering and guessing if you're doing it the right way or not.
It doesn't have to be that way! In this episode, Ann discusses the Litigation Paralegal Career Accelerator method that helps new litigation paralegals move from Panic Mode Paralegal to Confident Case Strategist.
Join Ann inside the Litigation Paralegal Boot Camp if you want to accelerate your paralegal career. She holds monthly live group coaching calls with you for one year to support you as you work through the course video lessons.
Enrollment closes on May 2, 2024. Learn More Here.
Attorneys have a reputation for being procrastinators. We’ve all seen the memes and jokes about it. They’ve all seen them too. So we assume that’s just the way it is. It’s always been that way, and we have to get used to it.
What if it didn’t have to be that way?
Can you prevent all rush projects with what I’m going to talk about today? No. But what if you could reduce them by 50%? Even more of a reduction would be better, but imagine if you’re currently dealing with one rush project per day, and you could get that down to 2 or 3 per week.
The result is less stress for you and a better work product. Maybe even fewer late nights or weekends.
Listen to the episode for some actionable strategies to reduce the number of rush projects that you have.
Don't forget to reserve your seat in the free live training being held this week - A Roadmap for Six-Figure Earnings: Insider Strategies for New Litigation Paralegals. Ann is holding it at 3 different days and times for you to choose from: https://paralegal-bootcamp.com/roadmap
Key Takeaways: * New litigation paralegals don't have to wait years to see success and earn a good salary. * Proactive thinking and taking initiative can significantly reduce rush projects and improve work quality. * Changing what you do and how you think can lead to a more fulfilling and rewarding paralegal career. * Having open and honest conversations with attorneys about the impact of last-minute projects can bring about positive change. * Being proactive and staying ahead of deadlines and tasks can help paralegals provide better support to attorneys and clients.
Are you a paralegal who wants to skip the learning curve and kickstart your career?
The Paralegal Boot Camp offers online courses to fast-track your paralegal career and cut YEARS off the typical learning curve that most new paralegals encounter when starting their careers. View our course offerings to see how we've helped thousands of paralegals like you.
Website: https://Paralegal-BootCamp.com
For more free paralegal resources, visit our Paralegal Resources page on the website.
Join the FREE live training Ann mentions in this episode, the Roadmap to 6-Figure Earnings: Insider Strategies for New Litigation Paralegals, here:
https://paralegal-bootcamp.com/Roadmap
In this episode, Ann shares actionable strategies for legal assistants or other legal professionals who want to get promoted to a paralegal position.
She emphasizes the importance of exceeding expectations in your current role, taking on paralegal projects, getting additional training beyond your paralegal certificate, and asking for the promotion. Ann provides valuable insights and advice for paralegals looking to advance their careers.
Are you a paralegal who wants to skip the learning curve and kickstart your career?
The Paralegal Boot Camp offers online courses to fast-track your paralegal career and cut YEARS off the typical learning curve that most new paralegals encounter when starting their careers. View our course offerings to see how we've helped thousands of paralegals like you.
Website: https://Paralegal-BootCamp.com
For more free paralegal resources, visit our Paralegal Resources page on the website.
About the Guest:
Lewanda Franklin is an experienced paralegal with over 20 years of experience in the legal field. She has worked in various practice areas, including family law, civil litigation, government affairs, and personal injury. Lewanda is known for her ability to pivot and adapt to different practice areas, continuously expanding her knowledge and skill set. She is currently working on launching her brand, "The Proper Paralegal," which aims to help paralegals achieve work-life balance and professional growth.
Episode Summary: In this episode, Ann Pearson interviews Lewanda Franklin, an experienced paralegal who has successfully pivoted between different practice areas throughout her career. Lewanda shares her insights and experiences, highlighting the importance of continuous learning, self-care, and taking initiative in one's career. She discusses her transition from civil litigation and family law to government affairs, and later to personal injury. Lewanda also shares her advice for paralegals at different stages of their careers, emphasizing the need for self-care, professional development, and the courage to ask for what you want.
Key Takeaways: * Lewanda emphasizes the importance of self-care for paralegals, highlighting the need to prioritize physical and mental well-being. * Continuous learning and professional development are crucial for paralegals to stay relevant and advance in their careers. * Paralegals should not be afraid to ask for opportunities and investments in their professional growth. * Pivoting between different practice areas can expand a paralegal's knowledge and skill set, increasing their value to employers. * There is no endpoint in a paralegal's career where they can say they know everything. The legal field is constantly evolving, and paralegals should always strive to learn and improve.
Are you a paralegal who wants to skip the learning curve and kickstart your career?
The Paralegal Boot Camp offers online courses to fast-track your paralegal career and cut YEARS off the typical learning curve that most new paralegals encounter when starting their careers. View our course offerings to see how we've helped thousands of paralegals like you.
Website: https://Paralegal-BootCamp.com
For more free paralegal resources, visit our Paralegal Resources page on the website.
Use Code "bootcamp" to get 10% off Jaclyn's 1 day live freelance paralegal marketing mastermind that's happening on April 8, 2024 at https://FreelanceParalegalMarketing.com. About the Guest(s): Jaclyn Foster is dedicated to empowering freelance paralegals nationwide, helping them achieve their entrepreneurial dreams in the legal industry. As a former paralegal turned multiple six-figure entrepreneur, Jaclyn's journey from subcontracting to founding her own successful freelancing venture has equipped her with invaluable insights.
As the CEO of Freelance Paralegals USA, she provides a revolutionary platform connecting law firms with skilled freelance professionals. Through her signature course, Freelance Paralegal Roadmap, podcast, and YouTube channel, Jaclyn guides individuals on the path to realizing their aspirations of six-figure freelancing.
Episode Summary:
In this episode, Jaclyn joins host Ann Pearson to discuss the misconceptions surrounding freelance paralegals and the opportunities available in the freelance paralegal industry. Jaclyn shares her personal journey of becoming a freelance paralegal and explains how freelancing can provide financial stability, work-life balance, and professional authority. She also highlights the importance of gaining experience in a law firm before venturing into freelance work and offers insights into the growing demand for freelance paralegals in the legal industry.
Key Takeaways: * Building stability as a freelance paralegal requires establishing long-term relationships with attorneys and offering services through hourly packages that provide ongoing work. * The demand for freelance paralegals is increasing as law firms realize the cost-effectiveness and flexibility of outsourcing work to experienced professionals. * New paralegals should consider gaining experience in a law firm before venturing into freelance work, as law firms prefer to hire freelancers who can immediately start performing legal tasks without extensive training. * Jacqueline Foster's Freelance Paralegal Roadmap course provides paralegals with the knowledge and strategies to start and grow their own freelance businesses. Her online marketplace, Freelance Paralegals USA, connects attorneys with freelance paralegals.
Are you a paralegal who wants to skip the learning curve and kickstart your career?
The Paralegal Boot Camp offers online courses to fast-track your paralegal career and cut YEARS off the typical learning curve that most new paralegals encounter when starting their careers. View our course offerings to see how we've helped thousands of paralegals like you.
Website: https://Paralegal-BootCamp.com
For more free paralegal resources, visit our Paralegal Resources page on the website.
Episode Summary: In this episode, Ann provides quick resume tips to help paralegals in their job search. She emphasizes the importance of the name and format of the resume file, using numbers to showcase experience, keeping the resume length concise, using action verbs, and avoiding repetition of bullet points from previous positions. These tips will help paralegals create effective resumes that stand out to potential employers.
Key Takeaways: * Use a simple and clear file name for your resume, such as "First Name_Last Name_Paralegal.pdf" or "First Name_Last Name_Paralegal.docx". * Opt for a single-column format in your resume to ensure compatibility and readability. * Incorporate numbers in your resume to highlight specific achievements, such as the number of trials attended or billable hours met. * Keep your resume concise and aim for one page, utilizing white space effectively. * Use action verbs to describe your responsibilities and accomplishments, avoiding vague statements. * Avoid repeating bullet points from previous positions to demonstrate professional growth.
Are you a paralegal who wants to skip the learning curve and kickstart your career?
The Paralegal Boot Camp offers online courses to fast-track your paralegal career and cut YEARS off the typical learning curve that most new paralegals encounter when starting their careers. View our course offerings to see how we've helped thousands of paralegals like you.
Website: https://Paralegal-BootCamp.com
For more free paralegal resources, visit our Paralegal Resources page on the website.
Go to Paralegal-Bootcamp.com/challenge to join the challenge discussed in this episode.
In this episode, Ann discusses the Paralegal Bootcamp's five-day challenge. Designed primarily for new litigation paralegals, this challenge aims to provide valuable tips and strategies to fast track their careers. Ann emphasizes the importance of mindset, managing priorities, taking ownership of work, embracing technology, and creating a written plan for career success. Each day of the challenge focuses on a specific topic, with actionable tasks and assignments to help paralegals improve their skills and achieve their goals.
Key Takeaways: * Mindset is crucial for success as a paralegal. Shifting from a "gap" mindset to a "gain" mindset allows paralegals to appreciate their progress and focus on their growth. * Managing priorities is essential for effective time and attention management. By allocating time and attention to the most important tasks, paralegals can increase productivity and reduce the risk of mistakes. * Taking ownership of work means going above and beyond assigned tasks. Paralegals should accept responsibility for every aspect of a project and strive to exceed expectations. * Embracing technology, especially in the field of litigation, is crucial for career growth. Paralegals should stay updated on case management software, e-discovery tools, and other emerging technologies to enhance their skills and job prospects. * Creating a written plan is essential for long-term career success. Paralegals should set clear goals, outline actionable steps, and regularly review and update their plan to stay on track.
Are you a paralegal who wants to skip the learning curve and kickstart your career?
The Paralegal Boot Camp offers online courses to fast-track your paralegal career and cut YEARS off the typical learning curve that most new paralegals encounter when starting their careers. View our course offerings to see how we've helped thousands of paralegals like you.
Website: https://Paralegal-BootCamp.com
For more free paralegal resources, visit our Paralegal Resources page on the website.
In this episode, Ann interviews Tony Sipp, Practice Assistant Director at Kirkland and Ellis. Tony shares his insights on knowing when it's time to make a career move and offers advice for paralegals considering a change. He emphasizes the importance of pursuing happiness and finding a job that aligns with your goals and values. Tony also discusses the evolving landscape of the legal profession, including the shift towards remote work and the increasing demand for diverse talent.
Key Takeaways: * Don't be afraid to leave a job that is toxic or does not provide opportunities for growth. Your mental and emotional well-being should be a priority. * Embrace your existing skills and experiences, even if they are from a different industry. Many transferable skills can be valuable in the legal field. * Don't be afraid to step outside of your comfort zone and pursue your dreams.
Are you a paralegal who wants to skip the learning curve and kickstart your career?
The Paralegal Boot Camp offers online courses to fast-track your paralegal career and cut YEARS off the typical learning curve that most new paralegals encounter when starting their careers. View our course offerings to see how we've helped thousands of paralegals like you.
Website: https://Paralegal-BootCamp.com
For more free paralegal resources, visit our Paralegal Resources page on the website.
In this episode, Ann is interviewed by paralegal student Kristy Medo. This was a class assignment for Kristy to interview someone and then present the interview to her class. Instead of just choosing to do a phone interview and use PowerPoint slides for her presentation to the class, Kristy reached out to Ann to see if she could take a step farther!
This is our first ever flipped interview style in which Ann is the person being interviewed on the podcast.
Key Takeaways: * Ann initially pursued a college degree, thinking she would go to law school but fell in love with being a paralegal and decided to pursue it as a career. * Finding balance is one of the most challenging aspects of operating the Paralegal Bootcamp, as it can be easy to get wrapped up in projects and work long hours. * Paralegals have a wide range of alternative career options, including legal compliance, data security, corporate positions, and healthcare compliance. * Learning to use AI tools and technology is crucial for paralegals to stay relevant and valuable in the industry, as it can enhance efficiency and productivity.
Are you a paralegal who wants to skip the learning curve and kickstart your career?
The Paralegal Boot Camp offers online courses to fast-track your paralegal career and cut YEARS off the typical learning curve that most new paralegals encounter when starting their careers. View our course offerings to see how we've helped thousands of paralegals like you.
Website: https://Paralegal-BootCamp.com
For more free paralegal resources, visit our Paralegal Resources page on the website.
In this episode, Ann discusses the concerns paralegals have about their jobs being replaced by overseas virtual legal assistants and AI. She reassures listeners that the types of paralegal jobs that can be taken by overseas assistants are typically low-paying and repetitive tasks. Ann provides actionable strategies to protect paralegals' job security and increase their value in the legal profession.
Key Takeaways: * Paralegals should aim to work in positions that involve tasks requiring specialized knowledge and experience, rather than repetitive and easily replaceable tasks. * Choosing to work for larger firms can provide more job security, as they are less likely to outsource paralegal positions to overseas assistants. * Being client-facing and developing strong relationships with clients can make paralegals more valuable and less likely to be replaced. * Legal assistants should strive to gain the skills and training necessary to be promoted to paralegal positions, as these roles are less likely to be outsourced. * Developing leadership skills can make paralegals indispensable in managing overseas virtual legal assistants if their firm decides to hire them. * Regularly updating resumes and LinkedIn profiles is essential for paralegals to showcase their skills and accomplishments to potential employers. * Paralegals should focus on building career security by acquiring the skills and knowledge needed for future job opportunities
Are you a paralegal who wants to skip the learning curve and kickstart your career?
The Paralegal Boot Camp offers online courses to fast-track your paralegal career and cut YEARS off the typical learning curve that most new paralegals encounter when starting their careers. View our course offerings to see how we've helped thousands of paralegals like you.
Website: https://Paralegal-BootCamp.com
For more free paralegal resources, visit our Paralegal Resources page on the website.
Click here to view Teas' "10 Essential Tips for Paralegals to Ensure a Successful Process Service"
About the Guest: Tea Godfrey is a former litigation paralegal who now owns her own company, Solid Serve Legal, where she provides process service and private investigation in the state of Oregon. With her background in litigation and her expertise in investigation and surveillance, Tea specializes in serving hard-to-reach defendants and conducting workplace investigations, civil litigation, and criminal defense cases. She is also the Vice President of the State's Association of Professional Process Servers and regularly volunteers with several legal aid organizations.
Episode Summary: In this episode, Ann interviews Tea Godfrey, owner of Solid Serve Legal, about the importance of hiring a reliable process server and shares a checklist to ensure a smooth process. Tea discusses her experience as a former litigation paralegal and how she transitioned into owning her own company. She also provides insights into the world of surveillance and investigation, highlighting the precautions and challenges involved. The conversation focuses on tips for hiring vendors, including process servers, and emphasizes the need for clear communication, comprehensive instructions, and thorough research. Listeners gain valuable insights into the process serving industry and learn how to avoid common pitfalls when hiring a process server.
Key Takeaways: * Conduct thorough research and obtain multiple bids when hiring a process server or any vendor. * Price should not be the sole determining factor when choosing a process server; consider responsiveness, communication skills, and attention to detail. * Provide comprehensive instructions and relevant information to the process server, including photos or physical descriptions of the person to be served. * Understand the rules and limitations of your role as a paralegal when hiring vendors and ensure compliance with state laws for out-of-state cases. * Effective communication and documentation are crucial for successful outcomes when working with vendors.
If you're looking to level up your paralegal investigation skills, check out our Paralegal Investigations Boot Camp: https://paralegal-bootcamp.thinkific.com/bundles/investigative-paralegal-boot-camp Are you a paralegal who wants to skip the learning curve and kickstart your career?
The Paralegal Boot Camp offers online courses to fast-track your paralegal career and cut YEARS off the typical learning curve that most new paralegals encounter when starting their careers. View our course offerings to see how we've helped thousands of paralegals like you.
Website: https://Paralegal-BootCamp.com
For more free paralegal resources, visit our Paralegal Resources page on the website.
Announcement for our podcast listeners! The Litigation Paralegal Boot Camp is currently open for enrollment! This is the only online course and coaching program of its kind that walks litigation paralegals through every phase of a litigation case and cuts YEARS off your learning curve. It also includes monthly live group coaching calls with Ann Pearson. Learn more about joining at https://LitigationParalegalBootCamp.com Enrollment closes on Thursday, February 8th!
Announcement for our podcast listeners! The Litigation Paralegal Boot Camp is currently open for enrollment! This is the only online course and coaching program of its kind that walks litigation paralegals through every phase of a litigation case and cuts YEARS off your learning curve. It also includes monthly live group coaching calls with Ann Pearson. Learn more about joining at https://LitigationParalegalBootCamp.com Enrollment closes on Thursday, February 8th!
Announcement for our podcast listeners! The Litigation Paralegal Boot Camp is currently open for enrollment! This is the only online course and coaching program of its kind that walks litigation paralegals through every phase of a litigation case and cuts YEARS off your learning curve. It also includes monthly live group coaching calls with Ann Pearson. Learn more about joining at https://LitigationParalegalBootCamp.com Enrollment closes on Thursday, February 8th!
Announcement for our podcast listeners! The Litigation Paralegal Boot Camp is currently open for enrollment! This is the only online course and coaching program of its kind that walks litigation paralegals through every phase of a litigation case and cuts YEARS off your learning curve. It also includes monthly live group coaching calls with Ann Pearson. Learn more about joining at https://LitigationParalegalBootCamp.com Enrollment closes on Thursday, February 8th!
Announcement for our podcast listeners! The Litigation Paralegal Boot Camp is currently open for enrollment! This is the only online course and coaching program of its kind that walks litigation paralegals through every phase of a litigation case and cuts YEARS off your learning curve. It also includes monthly live group coaching calls with Ann Pearson. Learn more about joining at https://LitigationParalegalBootCamp.com Enrollment closes on Thursday, February 8th!
Announcement for our podcast listeners! The Litigation Paralegal Boot Camp is currently open for enrollment! This is the only online course and coaching program of its kind that walks litigation paralegals through every phase of a litigation case and cuts YEARS off your learning curve. It also includes monthly live group coaching calls with Ann Pearson. Learn more about joining at https://LitigationParalegalBootCamp.com Enrollment closes on Thursday, February 8th!
Announcement for our podcast listeners! The Litigation Paralegal Boot Camp is currently open for enrollment! This is the only online course and coaching program of its kind that walks litigation paralegals through every phase of a litigation case and cuts YEARS off your learning curve. It also includes monthly live group coaching calls with Ann Pearson. Learn more about joining at https://LitigationParalegalBootCamp.com Enrollment closes on Thursday, February 8th!
About the Guest: Samantha Brillantino is a legal specialist at one of the largest medical technology companies in the world. She has been working in the legal industry since graduating from Salisbury University in 2017 and obtaining her ABA paralegal certificate in 2019. Samantha has faced challenges throughout her career due to her learning disability. Despite the doubts and challenges she has encountered, Samantha has proven that anything is possible with hard work, determination, and self-belief.
Episode Summary: In this episode, Ann interviews Samantha, a paralegal who has overcome challenges and defied expectations in her career. Samantha shares her experience of being told by a recruiter that she had no chance of being hired as a paralegal due to her lack of experience. However, Samantha persevered and landed a position at one of the largest medical device companies in the world. She emphasizes the importance of believing in oneself and not letting others define your capabilities. Samantha also discusses her learning disability and how she has learned to navigate the legal industry while managing her disability. She offers advice for paralegals facing similar challenges and emphasizes the importance of communication, continuous learning, and self-awareness.
Key Takeaways: * Believing in oneself and pushing through challenges is crucial for success in the paralegal career. * Recruiters may underestimate the potential of candidates based on their lack of experience, but it's important to prove them wrong and continue pursuing opportunities. * Individuals with disabilities should be open and honest about their challenges with their managers and seek support from companies that value inclusivity. * Strong communication skills, self-awareness, and continuous learning are essential for overcoming challenges and excelling as a paralegal. * Networking, joining professional associations, and attending seminars can provide valuable opportunities for career growth and development.
Are you a paralegal who wants to skip the learning curve and kickstart your career?
The Paralegal Boot Camp offers online courses to fast-track your paralegal career and cut YEARS off the typical learning curve that most new paralegals encounter when starting their careers. View our course offerings to see how we've helped thousands of paralegals like you.
Website: https://Paralegal-BootCamp.com
For more free paralegal resources, visit our Paralegal Resources page on the website.
In this episode, Ann shares her top seven litigation tips for paralegals. She emphasizes the importance of getting up to speed quickly on new cases by reviewing all relevant documents and extracting key information into a players list, chronology, and master to-do list. She also discusses the essential software skills that every litigation paralegal should have. Additionally, Ann highlights the importance of being an information manager and proactively managing cases by reviewing and organizing all incoming information. She also addresses the need for paralegals to take ownership of their careers and seek out the training they need to succeed. Finally, Ann discusses the growing importance of ediscovery in litigation and the need for paralegals to have a solid understanding of ediscovery tools and processes.
Key Takeaways:
- Review all relevant documents and extract key information to create a players list, chronology, and master to-do list for each case.
- Develop strong skills in Microsoft Word, Excel, and Adobe, as these are essential tools for all litigation paralegals.
- Be an information manager and proactively manage cases by reviewing and organizing all incoming information.
- Take ownership of your career and seek out the training you need to succeed.
- Ediscovery is now a mandatory skill for litigation paralegals, as electronic documents are a crucial part of most cases.
- Even small firms should embrace ediscovery tools to improve efficiency and ensure compliance with court rules.
- Paralegals should speak up when they see potential issues or challenges in a case, rather than waiting for someone else to address them.
Are you a paralegal who wants to skip the learning curve and kickstart your career?
The Paralegal Boot Camp offers online courses to fast-track your paralegal career and cut YEARS off the typical learning curve that most new paralegals encounter when starting their careers. View our course offerings to see how we've helped thousands of paralegals like you.
Website: https://Paralegal-BootCamp.com
For more free paralegal resources, visit our Paralegal Resources page on the website.
Sign up for the Paralegal Bootcamp challenge here!
Ann announces a five-day challenge for new litigation paralegals to help you jumpstart your career in 2024. The challenge is free to participate in and starts on Saturday, January 20, with a live training session. Then, starting on Monday, each day of the challenge, participants will receive an email with a task or assignment to complete that will help advance their career as a litigation paralegal.
Key Takeaways:
- The challenge is free to participate in and starts with a live training session on Saturday, January 20 at 1:00 p.m. Eastern.
- Participants will receive daily emails with tasks or assignments to complete that will help advance their careers as litigation paralegals.
- The challenge is specifically designed for new (or fairly new) litigation paralegals,
Learn more about the Free 5-Day Challenge mentioned in this episode: https://paralegal-bootcamp.com/challenge
Are you a paralegal who wants to skip the learning curve and kickstart your career?
The Paralegal Boot Camp offers online courses to fast-track your paralegal career and cut YEARS off the typical learning curve that most new paralegals encounter when starting their careers. View our course offerings to see how we've helped thousands of paralegals like you.
Website: https://Paralegal-BootCamp.com
For more free paralegal resources, visit our Paralegal Resources page on the website.
Want to join our FREE 5-Day Challenge for New Litigation Paralegals? It's live on January 20, 2024! Learn more here: https://paralegal-bootcamp.com/challenge
In this episode, Ann discusses the importance of litigation paralegals learning about ediscovery and how it can benefit their careers. She challenges the misconception that some paralegals may have about not doing ediscovery, emphasizing that even tasks like printing out electronic information still fall under the umbrella of ediscovery (it's just doing it in a way that takes more work and more time!).
Ann shares stories of paralegals who have successfully incorporated ediscovery into their skill set and how it has opened up new opportunities for them. She provides you with a three-step plan for to advance your career as a litigation paralegal.
Key Takeaways:
- Ediscovery is a required skill for litigation paralegals, and it can significantly impact their career trajectory.
- Paralegals should focus on career security rather than just job security by continually adding value and acquiring new skills.
- Making a written plan is crucial for paralegals to outline their career development goals and the steps they need to take to achieve them.
- Getting the necessary training and certifications in ediscovery software and project management is essential for career advancement.
Learn more about the Ediscovery Boot Camp mentioned in this episode: https://paralegal-bootcamp.thinkific.com/courses/ediscovery-bootcamp
Are you a paralegal who wants to skip the learning curve and kickstart your career?
The Paralegal Boot Camp offers online courses to fast-track your paralegal career and cut YEARS off the typical learning curve that most new paralegals encounter when starting their careers. View our course offerings to see how we've helped thousands of paralegals like you.
Website: https://Paralegal-BootCamp.com
For more free paralegal resources and other podcast episodes, visit our Paralegal Resources page on the website.
In this episode, Ann celebrates the 100th episode of the Paralegals on Fire podcast and shares her top ten favorite tips and nuggets from previous episodes.
Key Takeaways:
- Take ownership of your career and invest in career development.
- Share your knowledge and skills with others to elevate the paralegal profession.
- Keep a brag folder to track accomplishments and update your resume.
- Prepare for performance evaluations by reflecting on your achievements and setting goals.
- Advocate for fair salaries and don't settle for positions that don't meet your expectations.
Learn more about the Personal Injury Paralegal Boot Camp mentioned in this episode: https://personalinjuryparalegalbootcamp.com
Are you a paralegal who wants to skip the learning curve and kickstart your career?
The Paralegal Boot Camp offers online courses to fast-track your paralegal career and cut YEARS off the typical learning curve that most new paralegals encounter when starting their careers. View our course offerings to see how we've helped thousands of paralegals like you.
Website: https://Paralegal-BootCamp.com
For more free paralegal resources, visit our Paralegal Resources page on the website.
In this episode, Ann discusses the importance of celebrating accomplishments and measuring progress in order to stay motivated and avoid feeling overwhelmed. She introduces the concept of "The Gap and The Gain" from the book by Dan Sullivan and Dr. Benjamin Hardy. Living in "The Gap" means constantly focusing on what hasn't been achieved yet, while living in "The Gain" involves appreciating how far one has come.
Key Takeaways
- Instead of making a long list of goals for the upcoming year, take a moment to celebrate and appreciate what you have accomplished in the past year.
- Train your brain to see the gain by focusing on how far you have come rather than constantly comparing yourself to others.
- Write down three wins every day to remind yourself of your progress and achievements.
- Measure your progress against your own journey and growth, rather than comparing yourself to others.
Learn more about the Personal Injury Paralegal Boot Camp mentioned in this episode: https://personalinjuryparalegalbootcamp.com
Are you a paralegal who wants to skip the learning curve and kickstart your career?
The Paralegal Boot Camp offers online courses to fast-track your paralegal career and cut YEARS off the typical learning curve that most new paralegals encounter when starting their careers. View our course offerings to see how we've helped thousands of paralegals like you.
Website: https://Paralegal-BootCamp.com
For more free paralegal resources, visit our Paralegal Resources page on the website.
About The Guest:
Melissa Andrews is a former paralegal with over 15 years of experience in personal injury, family law, criminal law, and real estate. She transitioned from working in a law firm to becoming a virtual chief compliance officer and virtual chief privacy officer at Clearwater Security, specializing in healthcare compliance and privacy.
Summary:
Melissa Andrews shares her journey from being a personal injury paralegal to working in healthcare compliance and privacy. She started as an in-house paralegal at a hospital and gradually took on additional responsibilities, including privacy and compliance work. Through on-the-job training and networking, she became a system privacy officer and compliance officer for a health system. Eventually, she transitioned to her current role as a virtual compliance and privacy officer at Clearwater Security, where she provides consulting services to various healthcare organizations. Melissa emphasizes the importance of experience, networking, and continuous learning in the field of compliance and privacy.
Key Takeaways:
- Transitioning from a paralegal to a privacy and compliance officer requires experience and knowledge in the specific industry, such as healthcare, finance, or real estate.
- Networking and attending industry conferences can lead to job opportunities and connections in the compliance field.
- Soft skills, such as effective communication, adaptability, and the ability to handle pressure, are crucial for success in compliance and privacy roles.
- Obtaining a bachelor's degree in a relevant field can open doors for career advancement in compliance and privacy.
- Compliance officers need to stay updated on regulations and guidelines specific to their industry and be able to apply them in various situations.
Learn more about the Personal Injury Paralegal Boot Camp mentioned in this episode: https://personalinjuryparalegalbootcamp.com
Are you a paralegal who wants to skip the learning curve and kickstart your career?
The Paralegal Boot Camp offers online courses to fast-track your paralegal career and cut YEARS off the typical learning curve that most new paralegals encounter when starting their careers. View our course offerings to see how we've helped thousands of paralegals like you.
Website: https://Paralegal-BootCamp.com
For more free paralegal resources, visit our Paralegal Resources page on the website.
In this episode, Ann interviews Ashley Stasiewich, a former paralegal turned full-time paralegal instructor. She discusses the importance of mentorship and the impact it can have on aspiring paralegals. Ashley also highlights the need for research on effective legal education for non-lawyers, particularly paralegals. She emphasizes the value of practical experience through internships and the role of educators in preparing students for the workforce. Ashley's dedication to supporting future legal professionals shines through her teaching and mentorship.
About The Guest: Ashley Stasiewich is a former paralegal turned full-time paralegal instructor at McEwan University in Canada. With over 16 years of experience in the legal industry, Ashley is dedicated to educating future legal professionals and providing mentorship to aspiring paralegals. She is a member and mentor of the Alberta Association of Professional Paralegals and an associate member of the Edmonton Law Office Managers Association. Ashley is also currently writing a textbook on criminal law and procedure for Alberta legal professionals.
Key Takeaways:
- Practical experience through internships or practicums is crucial for paralegal success.
- The legal education of non-lawyers, such as paralegals, requires more research and attention.
- Educators should incorporate industry feedback and stay updated on legal technology and procedures.
- Balancing work in academia and industry can provide a well-rounded perspective and keep skills current.
Learn more about the Personal Injury Paralegal Boot Camp mentioned in this episode: https://personalinjuryparalegalbootcamp.com
Are you a paralegal who wants to skip the learning curve and kickstart your career?
The Paralegal Boot Camp offers online courses to fast-track your paralegal career and cut YEARS off the typical learning curve that most new paralegals encounter when starting their careers. View our course offerings to see how we've helped thousands of paralegals like you.
Website: https://Paralegal-BootCamp.com
For more free paralegal resources, visit our Paralegal Resources page on the website.
In this episode, Ann discusses alternative career options for paralegals. She emphasizes that the skills acquired throughout a paralegal career open the door to unlimited employment opportunities. Ann also provides a step-by-step plan for evaluating and transitioning to a new career, including soul searching, career assessments, researching new fields, and updating resumes.
View the Alternative Paralegal Career Options blog post mentioned in the episode here.
Key Takeaways:
- Paralegals have a wide range of alternative career options that utilize their skills and experience.
- It is important to think about what aspects of being a paralegal bring joy and fulfillment.
- Researching and understanding the requirements and pros and cons of alternative career paths is crucial before making a decision.
- Updating resumes to highlight transferable skills is essential when transitioning to a new career.
Learn more about the Personal Injury Paralegal Boot Camp mentioned in this episode: https://personalinjuryparalegalbootcamp.com
Are you a paralegal who wants to skip the learning curve and kickstart your career?
The Paralegal Boot Camp offers online courses to fast-track your paralegal career and cut YEARS off the typical learning curve that most new paralegals encounter when starting their careers. View our course offerings to see how we've helped thousands of paralegals like you.
Website: https://Paralegal-BootCamp.com
For more free paralegal resources, visit our Paralegal Resources page on the website.
In this episode, Ann shares six steps to becoming a rock star personal injury paralegal.
Get the PDF Download here that Ann mentions in the episode to get two bonus steps.
Key Takeaways:
- Learn anatomy and medicine to better understand medical records and terminology.
- Know the statute of limitations for each case and remind attorneys as deadlines approach.
- Familiarize yourself with medical abbreviations to avoid mistakes when summarizing records.
- Understand medical terminology specific to your practice area to enhance your expertise.
- Develop efficient methods for obtaining medical records, considering digital options when available.
Learn more about the Personal Injury Paralegal Boot Camp mentioned in this episode: https://personalinjuryparalegalbootcamp.com
Are you a paralegal who wants to skip the learning curve and kickstart your career?
The Paralegal Boot Camp offers online courses to fast-track your paralegal career and cut YEARS off the typical learning curve that most new paralegals encounter when starting their careers. View our course offerings to see how we've helped thousands of paralegals like you.
Website: https://Paralegal-BootCamp.com
For more free paralegal resources, visit our Paralegal Resources page on the website.
Announcement: Do you know of someone who has taken their paralegal experience and moved into an entirely different career outside the legal industry? Contact Us Here. to discuss being interviewed on the podcast show.
In this episode, Ann discusses the confusion and debate surrounding the use of the job titles "legal assistant" and "paralegal." While the ABA now distinguishes between paralegals and legal assistants, there is still inconsistency in how these titles are used by different organizations and law firms. Ann also highlights the differences in educational requirements, skills, and salaries between paralegals and legal assistants. Don't forget to visit the website for additional resources and stay tuned for the upcoming episode on paralegal management.
Key Takeaways:
- The ABA updated its definition of a paralegal in 2020, distinguishing it from a legal assistant.
- Paralegals typically require a minimum of an associate's degree and a paralegal certificate, while legal assistants may not have specific educational requirements.
- Paralegals often have more in-depth legal knowledge and perform substantive legal work, while legal assistants focus on administrative tasks.
- The use of the titles "paralegal" and "legal assistant" varies among organizations and law firms, leading to confusion for clients and the general public.
Are you a paralegal who wants to skip the learning curve and kickstart your career?
The Paralegal Boot Camp offers online courses to fast-track your paralegal career, View our course offerings.
Website: https://Paralegal-BootCamp.com
For more resources, visit our podcast page and blog.
In this episode, Ann answers questions from listeners in another "Ask Me Anything" format. She provides advice on various topics, including how to quickly gain knowledge in estate planning and probate, how to navigate a job search as an older worker, and how to overcome age bias in the hiring process. Ann offers practical tips and strategies to help paralegals advance their careers and achieve their professional goals. Don't forget to visit the website for additional resources and stay tuned for the upcoming episode on paralegal management.
Key Takeaways:
- Absorb everything your attorneys are doing and research unfamiliar terms or concepts.
- Join LinkedIn groups or forums for paralegals in your specialization to connect with others and gain insights.
- Consider addressing potential age bias in a cover letter or interview to highlight your commitment to working long-term.
- Evaluate your resume and interview skills to identify areas for improvement and increase your chances of success.
Podcast Episode Page: https://paralegal-bootcamp.com/paralegalpodcast-episode93/
Are you a paralegal who wants to skip the learning curve and kickstart your career?
The Paralegal Boot Camp offers online courses to fast-track your paralegal career and cut YEARS off the typical learning curve that most new paralegals encounter when starting their careers. View our course offerings to see how we've helped thousands of paralegals like you.
Website: https://Paralegal-BootCamp.com
For more paralegal resources, visit our podcast page and blog.
In this episode, Ann emphasizes the importance of attention to detail in a paralegal's career. Attention to detail is a skill that can make or break a paralegal's success, regardless of their experience level. Ann shares anecdotes to illustrate the significance of attention to detail in the legal profession. She also provides actionable strategies for improving attention to detail, such as reducing social media usage, prioritizing sleep and diet, and avoiding multitasking. Don't forget to visit the website for additional resources and stay tuned for the upcoming episode on paralegal management.
Key Takeaways:
- Attention to detail is a skill that can make or break a paralegal's career.
- New paralegals can make up for their lack of experience by excelling in attention to detail.
- Senior paralegals with years of experience can limit their success if they lack attention to detail.
- Attention to detail is the difference between a good paralegal and a great paralegal.
Are you a paralegal who wants to skip the learning curve and kickstart your career?
The Paralegal Boot Camp offers online courses to fast-track your paralegal career, including a course on how to master your attention to detail. View our course offerings.
https://paralegal-bootcamp.thinkific.com.
For more resources, visit our podcast page and blog.
In this episode, Ann discusses practical solutions for overwhelmed paralegals seeking better time management. She advises conducting a week-long time audit to track tasks and distractions, then using the data to approach the attorney with a plan for increasing productivity and addressing overwhelm. Ann also suggests reading relevant books on time management and shares insights on batching work to enhance efficiency. Don't forget to visit the website for additional resources and stay tuned for the upcoming episode on paralegal management.
Key Takeaways:
- If you're feeling overwhelmed with various tasks, start by gathering data about how you're using your time.
- New paralegals should expect tasks to take longer initially, but efficiency improves with experience.
- Don't be afraid to ask for more work in areas you're interested in or to learn new skills.
- Consider batching similar tasks together to boost efficiency and reduce task-switching.
- Time audits and organization can help alleviate feelings of overwhelm and boost your paralegal career.
Are you a paralegal who wants to skip the learning curve and kickstart your career?
The Paralegal Boot Camp offers online courses to fast-track your paralegal career, including a course on how to master your attention to detail. View our course offerings.
https://paralegal-bootcamp.thinkific.com.
For more resources, visit our podcast page and blog.
In this week's episode, Ann dedicates the show to listener M who reached out on Instagram. Anne dives into the role of an evidence manager during different trial phases, emphasizing the importance of staying organized, proactive, and prepared. Drawing from her own experiences, Anne shares valuable insights and lessons learned, highlighting the critical role paralegals play in trial success. Don't forget to visit the website for additional resources and stay tuned for the upcoming episode on paralegal management.
Key Takeaways:
- Trial preparation starts with organizing evidence, including exhibits and witness lists.
- Attorneys focus on case strategy, making the paralegal's role of evidence management vital.
- Effective organization of evidence ensures quick access during trial.
- Track admitted and unadmitted evidence for the jury and judge.
- Proactivity is essential in trial preparation.
- Don't underestimate time availability before trial.
Are you a paralegal who wants to skip the learning curve and kickstart your career?
The Paralegal Boot Camp offers online courses to fast-track your paralegal career, including a course on how to master your attention to detail. View our course offerings.
https://paralegal-bootcamp.thinkific.com.
For more resources, visit our podcast page and blog.
In this episode, Ann answers an "Ask Me Anything" question about managing paralegal teams. She dives into the characteristics of a good paralegal manager, emphasizing the importance of being a leader rather than just a boss. Ann shares her own experience in a paralegal management role and highlights the significance of having a paralegal background for effective management. Don't forget to visit the website for additional resources and stay tuned for the upcoming episode on paralegal management.
Key Takeaways:
- Paralegal managers' effectiveness depends on the type of manager role they have within the organization: a leader or a rule enforcer.
- A good paralegal manager should understand the role of a paralegal.
- Confidence is essential for a paralegal manager.
- To keep paralegal teams engaged, it is crucial to ensure they are on the right team and have good personality fits with their attorneys and colleagues.
- Regular team meetings, social activities, and recognition for going above and beyond can improve engagement among paralegals.
Are you a paralegal who wants to skip the learning curve and kickstart your career?
The Paralegal Boot Camp offers online courses to fast-track your paralegal career, including a course on how to master your attention to detail. View our course offerings.
https://paralegal-bootcamp.thinkific.com.
For more resources, visit our podcast page and blog.
In this eppisode, Ann answers listener questions, offering valuable advice to paralegals looking to fast-track their careers. She shares insights on handling mistakes, improving relationships with attorneys, and considering a chapter two in one's career. Ann also provides tips on starting a virtual paralegal business and offers a sneak peek into a future episode dedicated to paralegal management. Whether you're a seasoned paralegal or just starting out, there's always plenty tolearn. Don't forget to visit the website for additional resources and stay tuned for the upcoming episode on paralegal management.
Key Takeaways:
* Consider chapter two of your career if you want to escape the daily grind of going to the office.
- Always prioritize deadlines and be proactive to avoid missing important tasks.
- Building a strong relationship with your attorney is crucial to job satisfaction.
- Explore entrepreneurial opportunities beyond a virtual paralegal business.
Are you a paralegal who wants to skip the learning curve and kickstart your career?
The Paralegal Boot Camp offers online courses to fast-track your paralegal career, including a course on how to master your attention to detail. View our course offerings.
https://paralegal-bootcamp.thinkific.com.
For more resources, visit our podcast page and blog.
In this episode, Ann discusses the importance of finding your confident voice as a paralegal. She emphasizes that true confidence is not just about acting confident, but about actually feeling confident in your interactions with attorneys. Ann explains that having confidence is crucial for success in your career, as it allows you to speak up when something goes wrong, have courageous conversations, and stand up for yourself when necessary. She provides examples and practical tips for building confidence and having difficult conversations with attorneys.
Key Takeaways:
- Building confidence is essential for success as a paralegal and can save time, money, and prevent malpractice claims.
- Confidence allows you to speak up when something goes wrong, have courageous conversations, and stand up for yourself.
- When facing a difficult conversation, present the issue, provide data or evidence, and offer potential solutions.
- Confidence is not a personality trait, but a willingness to try and take action.
Are you a paralegal who wants to skip the learning curve and kickstart your career?
The Paralegal Boot Camp offers online courses to fast-track your paralegal career, including a course on how to master your attention to detail. View our course offerings.
https://paralegal-bootcamp.thinkific.com.
For more resources, visit our podcast page and blog.
In this episode, Ann discusses the importance of billable hours from a management perspective. She emphasizes that exceeding billable hour goals is crucial for career advancement and job security. Pearson explains how low billable hours can impact salary and job security, and offers advice on how paralegals can increase their billable work. She also encourages paralegals to have courageous conversations with attorneys to understand why they may not be receiving enough billable projects.
Key Takeaways:
- Exceeding billable hour goals can fast track a paralegal's career.
- Low billable hours can impact job security and salary.
- Paralegals can proactively seek feedback from attorneys to improve their work product and increase billable work.
Are you a paralegal who wants to skip the learning curve and kickstart your career?
The Paralegal Boot Camp offers online courses to fast-track your paralegal career, including a course on how to master your attention to detail. View our course offerings.
https://paralegal-bootcamp.thinkific.com.
For more resources, visit our podcast page and blog.
In this episode, Ann shares three quick tips for drafting billable time entries.
Key Takeaways:
- Change your mindset about billable time and view it as an integral part of your job responsibilities.
- Familiarize yourself with all the features and functions of your timekeeping software to streamline the process of entering billable time.
- Ensure that your time entries answer the questions of what and why, providing a clear description of the work performed and its value to the client.
- If you're struggling to draft a time entry, it may indicate that the work is not billable and may not be the best use of your time.
Are you a paralegal who wants to skip the learning curve and kickstart your career?
The Paralegal Boot Camp offers online courses to fast-track your paralegal career, including a course on how to master your attention to detail. View our course offerings.
https://paralegal-bootcamp.thinkific.com.
For more resources, visit our podcast page and blog.
In this episode, Ann welcomes back Molly McGrath, who is back on the show to talk about her new book. Molly shares her unique perspective on the topic as someone who has sat on various sides of the table in the legal industry. The book aims to bridge the communication gap between employers and employees by providing a framework for both parties to understand each other's perspectives. They touch on the chapter on courageous conversations and discusses the importance of addressing issues in real time with facts and proposed solutions. They emphasize the need for open and honest communication to create a positive work environment.
Key Takeaways:
- Lead by example: As the owner operator or managing paralegal, your behavior and work ethic will be modeled by your team. Take responsibility for your actions, such as being punctual for client appointments and managing your workload effectively.
- Be respectful and present facts: When communicating with your attorney or colleagues, be respectful and avoid emotional responses. Present information as facts rather than relying on assumptions or incomplete data.
- Avoid being a "Yes sir" or "Yes ma'am": Instead of blindly agreeing to every request or task, clarify and verify the expectations and deadlines. Don't hesitate to ask for more time or additional information if needed. Be a master project manager and communicate your workload effectively.
- Avoid resentment by speaking up: If you feel overwhelmed or unable to meet certain demands, don't suffer in silence. Clearly communicate your workload, priorities, and limitations. Resentment builds when you abandon your own needs and fail to use your voice effectively.
- Consider and acknowledge others' strengths: Recognize and appreciate the unique abilities and strengths of your colleagues and team members. Assign tasks and projects based on their strengths to maximize efficiency and productivity within the firm.
- Focus on strengths, not weaknesses: Instead of dwelling on weaknesses, concentrate on developing and utilizing your own strengths. This approach allows for better performance, satisfaction, and growth within your role.
- Communicate upfront and have courageous conversations: Establish a culture of open and honest communication within the firm. Have courageous conversations with your attorney or supervisor about your preferences, strengths, and limitations. Avoid taking on roles or responsibilities that don't align with your unique abilities.
Are you a paralegal who wants to skip the learning curve and kickstart your career?
The Paralegal Boot Camp offers online courses to fast-track your paralegal career, including a course on how to master your attention to detail. View our course offerings.
https://paralegal-bootcamp.thinkific.com.
For more resources, visit our podcast page and blog.
In this episode, Ann Pearson speaks with Amy Elder. Amy shares her journey from being a file opener to becoming a paralegal at a mid-size Atlanta firm specializing in workers' compensation. She discusses how she landed the job and quickly progressed in her role by expressing her passion for the legal field and continuously seeking more responsibilities. Amy emphasizes the importance of having supportive mentors and colleagues who believe in your abilities and encourage personal and professional growth. She also highlights the satisfaction she finds in being a paralegal and explains why she decided to forego her initial plan of attending law school.
Throughout the conversation, Amy's enthusiasm for her work and the firm she works for is evident. She appreciates the support and recognition she receives from her attorneys and credits their guidance for her success. Amy encourages new paralegals to ask questions, seek out challenges, and surround themselves with people who push them to become better. Despite starting her career with doubts and insecurities, Amy's journey showcases the transformative power of mentorship and self-belief in carving a fulfilling and rewarding path in the paralegal profession.
Key Takeaways:
- Pursuing a paralegal career without a paralegal certificate is possible.
- It's important to maintain a close relationship with employers and expressing long-term career goals.
- Assess your passion and enjoyment for your current role before considering further education or career transitions.
- Receiving appreciation and recognition can boost your confidence and motivation.
- Attorneys that challeng your thinking and push you to better yourself contribute to personal and professional growth.
- Find someone, whether a supervisor, coworker, or friend, who can provide support and encouragement in career development.
Are you a paralegal who wants to skip the learning curve and kickstart your career?
The Paralegal Boot Camp offers online courses to fast-track your paralegal career, including a course on how to master your attention to detail. View our course offerings.
https://paralegal-bootcamp.thinkific.com.
For more resources, visit our podcast page and blog.
In this episode, Ann reflects on her experience as a paralegal manager and shares valuable lessons she wish she knew as a paralegal. She emphasizes the importance of understanding the business aspect of law, finding a work-life balance, mastering the art of delegation, knowing your numbers and key performance indicators, and recognizing that management is aware of underperformers.
Key Takeaways:
- Remember that while you may love your work, it's not your business. Find a balance between work and personal life and don't let work override your personal life.
- Work-life integration is a more realistic approach than work-life balance. With technology, you can work anytime, anywhere, but make sure to prioritize your personal life.
- Management knows who the underperformers are. Even if it seems like they're getting away with it, they are not rewarded like high-performing individuals. Others in the office notice their behavior too.
- Time entry is crucial. Make sure to prioritize entering your billable hours and other necessary data on time to avoid unnecessary issues and misunderstandings.
- Be proactive in seeking feedback from your superiors and seeking clarification on tasks. This helps ensure that you're meeting expectations and delivering work that aligns with their vision.
- Don't compare your workload or contributions to others. Focus on doing your best and continuously improving your skills and knowledge.
- Remember that success is a journey. Strive for continuous improvement, set goals for yourself, and adapt to new challenges and opportunities that come your way.
Are you a paralegal who wants to skip the learning curve and kickstart your career?
The Paralegal Boot Camp offers online courses to fast-track your paralegal career, including a course on how to master your attention to detail. View our course offerings.
https://paralegal-bootcamp.thinkific.com.
For more resources, visit our podcast page and blog.
In this episode, Ann emphasizes the dangers of "fake it till you make it" mentality in the legal profession, highlighting a story of a paralegal who was fired for refusing help. She advises paralegals to admit when they need assistance and pursue additional training when necessary. The episode concludes with actionable strategies for litigation and non-litigation paralegals to improve their skills and career prospects.
Key Takeaways:
- Sometimes asking for help or additional training can benefit your career and prevent mistakes.
- Faking confidence or knowledge as a paralegal can be detrimental to your career and the clients you serve.
- Actively seeking help and admitting when you don't know something is better than pretending to know it all.
- Job descriptions can serve as a checklist for the skills you want to acquire or improve upon in your field.
- It's important to be honest with yourself when assessing your current skillset and areas for improvement.
- Understanding your strengths and weaknesses in different areas of litigation can guide your professional development
Are you a paralegal who wants to skip the learning curve and kickstart your career?
The Paralegal Boot Camp offers online courses to fast-track your paralegal career, including a course on how to master your attention to detail. View our course offerings.
https://paralegal-bootcamp.thinkific.com.
For more resources, visit our podcast page and blog.
In this guest episode of the Paralegals on Fire! Podcast Show, Ann Pearson has a very special guest and this episode is going to inspire you, whether you’re a new paralegal, struggling to break into the field or an experienced paralegal who thinks there’s no such thing as a career ladder for a paralegal.
Kim Barrett is the Director of Paralegals and Legal Professionals at a Global Law Firm and her story is important for you to hear. Kim started her paralegal career as a part-time night receptionist at a law firm. She shares her amazing journey and career along with some great tips for paralegals.
In all of our podcast episodes, we try to give paralegals an actionable strategy that they can take away from the show because we know your time is valuable.
In this podcast episode, Kim Barrett suggested that paralegals connect with their colleagues. Join your paralegal organization. Speak to colleagues at other firms. Ask questions and don’t take No, for an answer. Keep moving forward. Remember: If you don’t ask the answer will always be No!
Are you a paralegal who wants to skip the learning curve and kickstart your career?
The Paralegal Boot Camp offers online courses to fast-track your paralegal career, including a course on how to master your attention to detail. View our course offerings.
https://paralegal-bootcamp.thinkific.com.
For more resources, visit our podcast page and blog.
In today's episode, Sarah Riley Mohr, Associate Corporate Counsel at Amazon, talks about her journey from being a paralegal to becoming a lawyer. Sarah discusses the challenges and rewards of her path and provides insights on whether it is worth it for others to pursue the same route.
Sarah also discusses the best traits and skills that a paralegal can learn, such as the ability to take initiative, think critically, and demonstrate a willingness to do substantive work. Additionally, Sarah emphasizes the importance of recognizing when to delegate tasks and focus on higher-level work. Today's podcast episode provides valuable insights for both paralegals and attorneys on how to succeed in the legal profession.
Key Takeaways:
- One of the most important traits of a paralegal is being able to spot issues and ask the right questions.
- The ability to take initiative and think critically is an important trait for paralegals to demonstrate to attorneys that they are capable of more substantive work.
- No task is beneath anyone, but it is also necessary to understand when to delegate to others in order to focus on higher-level work.
- Attending law school while working as a paralegal requires a significant amount of dedication and time management.
- Becoming a lawyer after working as a paralegal is possible but requires careful consideration of the costs and benefits.
Did you hear about our upcoming live workshop? Ann Pearson is going live on May 16th and May 18th for the 7 Habits of Indispensable Paralegals! Learn more here: https://paralegal-bootcamp.thinkific.com/courses/seven-habits-of-indispensable-paralegals
Please visit our podcast page for the full show notes and any resources mentioned in the show.
Are you a paralegal who wants to skip the learning curve and kickstart your career?
The Paralegal Boot Camp offers online courses to fast-track your paralegal career, including a course on how to master your attention to detail. View our course offerings.
https://paralegal-bootcamp.thinkific.com.
For more resources, visit our blog.
In this episode, Ann and Michael discuss e-Discovery. The growing area of e-Discovery has become a mandatory skill for paralegals in the industry, and it's encouraged that all paralegals learn e-Discovery to increase their career security and job potential.
Key Takeaways:
- Integrating project management with e-Discovery can be a good next step in understanding the e-Discovery lifecycle.
- Paralegals already have a legal foundation that makes it easier to transition into e-Discovery careers.
- A way to get to that six-figure salary mark is to become an e-Discovery project manager.
Did you hear about our upcoming live workshop? Ann Pearson is going live on May 16th and May 18th for the 7 Habits of Indispensable Paralegals! Learn more here: https://paralegal-bootcamp.thinkific.com/courses/seven-habits-of-indispensable-paralegals
Please visit our podcast page for the full show notes and any resources mentioned in the show.
Are you a paralegal who wants to skip the learning curve and kickstart your career?
The E-discovery Boot Camp takes all of the guesswork out of managing an e-discovery project. This online course gives you a step-by-step guide to use from start to finish (with 40+ pages of a written plan, templates, and e-discovery checklists for every phase!).
We walk you through each step and give you the training and the tools to master every phase of your e-discovery project.
In this episode, Amy discusses the difference between a legal secretary/assistant and a paralegal. Amy is the chair of the paralegal section of the San Francisco Bar Association and has written several articles about the differences between the two roles. Ann and Amy also discuss how legal secretaries should not be referred to as paralegals and how paralegals have some tasks that legal secretaries cannot do.
Key Takeaways:
- Paralegals have some tasks that legal secretaries cannot do, and paralegals can bill for certain tasks.
- It is important to understand the differences between a legal secretary/assistant and a paralegal.
- It’s important to take a step back and assess why you are staying in a job that makes you unhappy.
- Sometimes you have to put your ego aside and do what is right for yourself.
- Presentations and articles are available to help attorneys understand the differences between legal secretaries and paralegals, and it is important for job postings to accurately reflect the requirements of the position being advertised.
Please visit our podcast page for the full show notes and any resources mentioned in the show.
Are you a paralegal who wants to skip the learning curve and kickstart your career?
The Paralegal Boot Camp offers online courses to fast-track your paralegal career, including a course on how to master your attention to detail. View our course offerings.
https://paralegal-bootcamp.thinkific.com.
For more resources, visit our blog.
This conversation between Ann Pearson and Jessie Foss emphasizes the importance to be curious, ask questions, and research the law on your own in order to advance in the field. Through Jessies' curiosity and interest in learning more about the legal profession, she was able to advance and transition into a paralegal role.
Key Takeaways:
- Organization and task prioritization are crucial skills for a trial paralegal who may be assisting multiple attorneys and handling urgent tasks during a trial.
- Hands-on experience was more valuable than the paralegal certificate when it came to landing a position at the firm.
- You can seek help from recruiters and research how to improve your interview skills in preparation for your job search.
- It's important to have practical experience over theoretical knowledge in the legal field.
- Effective communication and delegation skills are necessary for a paralegal to manage tasks efficiently during a trial.
Please visit our podcast page for the full show notes and any resources mentioned in the show.
Are you a paralegal who wants to skip the learning curve and kickstart your career?
The Paralegal Boot Camp offers online courses to fast-track your paralegal career, including a course on how to master your attention to detail. View our course offerings.
https://paralegal-bootcamp.thinkific.com.
For more resources, visit our blog.
In this episode, Ann Pearson introduces the concept of being an indispensable paralegal in the legal team and provides seven habits to achieve this. She discusses various daily, monthly, and yearly habits to be successful.
Key Takeaways:
- Don't waste the investment of time and money you've put into obtaining a paralegal certificate.
- Be proactive and take ownership of your work.
- Manage your priorities, not just your time.
- Develop systems, checklists, and procedures (SOPs) to streamline your work.
- Invest in your career by continuously improving and updating your skills.
- Reflect on your performance annually and set goals for improvement.
Please visit our podcast page for the full show notes and any resources mentioned in the show.
Are you a paralegal who wants to skip the learning curve and kickstart your career?
The Paralegal Boot Camp offers online courses to fast-track your paralegal career, including a course on how to master your attention to detail. View our course offerings.
https://paralegal-bootcamp.thinkific.com.
For more resources, visit our blog.
In our monthly paralegal inspiration episode series of #RockstarParalegals who truly enjoy what they do, I talked with Heidi Semkovich. Heidi is a paralegal in Alberta, Canada, and has worked in Oil & Gas, Criminal, Regulatory, and most recently in labor and employment law.
Heidi discusses her insights and tips for paralegals in areas such as:
- How to handle an "attorney's bad day"
- Your professional integrity is your currency
- How to know your worth and show your worth
Please visit our podcast page for the full show notes and any resources mentioned in the show.
Are you a paralegal who wants to skip the learning curve and kickstart your career?
The Paralegal Boot Camp offers online courses to fast-track your paralegal career, including a course on how to master your attention to detail. View our course offerings.
https://paralegal-bootcamp.thinkific.com.
For more resources, visit our blog.
In this guest episode of the Paralegals on Fire! Podcast Show, Ann Pearson talks with Heather Gonzalez, a paralegal who is also a Certified Nutritionist, 500-hour Yoga Teacher, Wellness Coach, Personal trainer, Master Herbalist, and Mindful Coach about how to use mindfulness to keep paralegal stress in check.
Please visit our podcast page for the checklist mentioned in the show.
Are you a paralegal who wants to skip the learning curve and kickstart your career?
The Paralegal Boot Camp offers online courses to fast-track your paralegal career.
View our course offerings.
Website: https://paralegal-bootcamp.com
For more paralegal resources, visit our Paralegal Resources page.
In this solo episode of the Paralegals on Fire! Podcast Show, Ann Pearson shares advice on what you can do if your attorney yells at you because no one should have to tolerate such behavior no matter the circumstance.
Please visit our podcast page for the full show notes and transcript.
Are you a paralegal who wants to skip the learning curve and kickstart your career?
The Paralegal Boot Camp offers online courses to fast-track your paralegal career, including a course on how to master your attention to detail. View our course offerings.
https://paralegal-bootcamp.thinkific.com.
For more resources, visit our blog.
If you’ve been a podcast listener for a while, you heard the earlier episode that I asked for paralegals who wanted to be interviewed about what they love about being a paralegal and help spread some inspiration to other paralegals. The response was overwhelming!
We’ll give you one of these interviews every month this year to encourage you, inspire you, motivate you, and remind you why you went into the paralegal profession.
In this third interview in our paralegal inspiration episode series of #RockstarParalegals, I talked with Brian Carchedi. Brian is a commercial real estate paralegal in New York who enjoys going to work EVERY SINGLE DAY. Brian shares some paralegal insights from someone who has been a paralegal for 20 years and has seen many technology changes over those years.
Please visit our podcast page for the full show notes and transcript.
Are you a paralegal who wants to skip the learning curve and kickstart your career?
The Paralegal Boot Camp offers online courses to fast-track your paralegal career, including a course on how to master your attention to detail. View our course offerings.
https://paralegal-bootcamp.thinkific.com.
For more resources, visit our blog.
In this solo episode of the Paralegals on Fire! Podcast Show, Ann Pearson gives advice on ten things litigation paralegals should be doing to see success in their careers and stand out at their firms. From when you should be asking for feedback to how to get out of the office sooner, these litigation paralegal tips will help you change your perspective and accelerate your growth.
Please visit our podcast page for the full show notes and transcript.
Are you a paralegal who wants to skip the learning curve and kickstart your career?
The Paralegal Boot Camp offers online courses to fast-track your paralegal career, including a course on how to master your attention to detail. View our course offerings.
https://paralegal-bootcamp.thinkific.com.
For more resources, visit our blog.
In this guest episode of the Paralegals on Fire! Podcast Show, Ann Pearson talks with Dan Moulder, paralegal manager and author of the book “The Lunch.” In the book, Dan tells a story about an annual corporate lunch that highlights eight characters with mindsets that are limiting them in life and work.
In the show, Ann and Dan discuss how paralegals can apply the lessons learned in the book to their careers and what they can do to change these limiting mindsets so that you can get unstuck.
You will get SO much valuable insight from this episode!
Please visit our podcast page for the full show notes and transcript.
Are you a paralegal who wants to skip the learning curve and kickstart your career?
The Paralegal Boot Camp offers online courses to fast-track your paralegal career, including a course on how to master your attention to detail. View our course offerings.
https://paralegal-bootcamp.thinkific.com.
For more resources, visit our blog.
If you’ve been a podcast listener for a while, you heard the earlier episode that I asked for paralegals who wanted to be interviewed about what they love about being a paralegal and help spread some inspiration to other paralegals. The response was overwhelming!
We’ll give you one of these interviews every month this year to encourage you, inspire you, motivate you, and remind you why you went into the paralegal profession.
In this second interview in our paralegal inspiration episode series of #RockstarParalegals, I talked with Lisa Gutierrez. Lisa is a litigation paralegal working in medical malpractice.
Lisa is the PERFECT example of why you should not give up on your paralegal career! She did (temporarily) and is now in a paralegal job that she absolutely loves.
Please visit our podcast page for the full show notes and transcript.
Are you a paralegal who wants to skip the learning curve and kickstart your career?
The Paralegal Boot Camp offers online courses to fast-track your paralegal career, including a course on how to master your attention to detail. View our course offerings.
https://paralegal-bootcamp.thinkific.com.
For more resources, visit our blog.
In this solo episode of the Paralegals on Fire! Podcast Show Ann Pearson shares the importance of writing out a plan and taking the time to visualize what you hope to see in your future for both your career and personal life. Listen now and learn ways to start making that plan and tips on how to make it happen.
Please visit our podcast page for the full show notes and transcript.
Are you a paralegal who wants to skip the learning curve and kickstart your career?
Enrollment closes today on the Litigation Paralegal Bootcamp. Join now!
The Paralegal Boot Camp offers online courses to fast-track your paralegal career, including a course on how to master your attention to detail. View our course offerings.
https://paralegal-bootcamp.thinkific.com.
For more resources, visit our blog.
It happens to so many. You graduate from school and land an exciting new job, but the training to do your job well never comes. What should you do?
If you’re a new paralegal or someone who has been in the paralegal field for a while, still scrambling to figure out what you are supposed to be doing as a litigation paralegal, Ann Pearson lights the way in our latest episode.
Please visit our podcast page for the full show notes and transcript.
Get your 3 Steps to Better Case Management at https://paralegal-bootcamp.com/3steps
Are you a paralegal who wants to skip the learning curve and kickstart your career?
The Paralegal Boot Camp offers online courses to fast-track your paralegal career, including a course on how to master your attention to detail. View our course offerings.
https://paralegal-bootcamp.thinkific.com.
For more resources, visit our blog.
There are so many traits, skills, and habits that make for a successful paralegal career. We talk about many of them in this podcast show, but today we’re going to just focus on three of them so that we can take a deeper dive into the discussion.
Whether you’re a new paralegal or someone who has been in the paralegal field for a while, you’ll get a lot out of this solo episode with Ann Pearson.
Please visit our podcast page for the full show notes and transcript.
Get your 3 Steps to Better Case Management at https://paralegal-bootcamp.com/3steps
Are you a paralegal who wants to skip the learning curve and kickstart your career?
The Paralegal Boot Camp offers online courses to fast-track your paralegal career, including a course on how to master your attention to detail. View our course offerings.
https://paralegal-bootcamp.thinkific.com.
For more resources, visit our blog.
In this solo episode of the Paralegals on Fire! Podcast Show Ann Pearson discusses the results from the paralegal survey Paralegal Boot Camp ran a few months ago, where we asked some questions that were a little different than most paralegal surveys.
Please visit our podcast page for the full show notes and transcript.
Get your 3 Steps to Better Case Management at https://paralegal-bootcamp.com/3steps
Are you a paralegal who wants to skip the learning curve and kickstart your career?
The Paralegal Boot Camp offers online courses to fast-track your paralegal career, including a course on how to master your attention to detail. View our course offerings.
https://paralegal-bootcamp.thinkific.com.
For more resources, visit our blog.
In this solo episode of the Paralegals on Fire! Podcast Show, Ann Pearson offers tips and actionable strategies for standing out as a proactive paralegal.
Show Highlights
- What it means to be a proactive paralegal
- Ways being proactive will help fast-track your paralegal career
- How to be more proactive on the job
Please visit our podcast page for the full show notes and transcript.
Get your 3 Steps to Better Case Management at https://paralegal-bootcamp.com/3steps
Are you a paralegal who wants to skip the learning curve and kickstart your career?
The Paralegal Boot Camp offers online courses to fast-track your paralegal career, including a course on how to master your attention to detail. View our course offerings.
https://paralegal-bootcamp.thinkific.com.
For more resources, visit our blog.
If you’ve been a podcast listener for a while, you heard the earlier episode that I asked for paralegals who wanted to be interviewed about what they love about being a paralegal and help spread some inspiration to other paralegals. The response was overwhelming!
We’ll give you one of these interviews every month this year to encourage you, inspire you, motivate you, and remind you why you went into the paralegal profession.
In this first interview in our series of #RockstarParalegals, I talked with Lisa Abbe. Lisa is a paralegal specialist with the Department of Justice and has been in the industry as a litigation paralegal for around 17 years. Lisa has a Master’s Degree in Forensic Psychology and is in the dissertation phase of receiving her PhD.
Please visit our podcast page for the full show notes and transcript.
Get your 3 Steps to Better Case Management at https://paralegal-bootcamp.com/3steps
Are you a paralegal who wants to skip the learning curve and kickstart your career?
The Paralegal Boot Camp offers online courses to fast-track your paralegal career, including a course on how to master your attention to detail. View our course offerings.
https://paralegal-bootcamp.thinkific.com.
For more resources, visit our blog.
In this solo episode of the Paralegals on Fire! Podcast Show, Ann Pearson encourages you to reflect on the past year and reminds us of the importance of celebrating your wins throughout your paralegal career.
Show Highlights
- Why writing down your wins has positive effects on your mental health
- What to consider a win – big or small – personal or professional
- How to get in the habit of celebrating your wins
Other Podcast Episodes of Interest Episode 17: A Better Way to Achieve Your Goals
Episode 13: 8 Mindsets That Could Be Hurting Your Paralegal Career
Episode 47: How to Get Your Attorney to Invest in Your Career Development
Episode 51: We Should All be so Lucky to Work at this Firm
Visit Main Paralegal Podcast Page to listen to all of our episodes.
Your Actionable Strategies In all of our podcast episodes, we try to give paralegals actionable strategies that they can take away from the show because we know your time is valuable.
In this podcast episode, Ann Pearson shares 3 actionable strategies for celebrating your wins this year and going forward.
- Sit down before the end of the year and write down 12 wins. One for each month of the year.
- Mark your calendar every Friday afternoon with a reminder to document your wins for the week.
- Share your wins with us! Comment below with one of your 12 wins for the year so we can all celebrate with you.
Get your 3 Steps to Better Case Management at https://paralegal-bootcamp.com/3steps
Are you a paralegal who wants to skip the learning curve and kickstart your career?
The Paralegal Boot Camp offers online courses to fast-track your paralegal career, including a course on how to master your attention to detail. View our course offerings.
https://paralegal-bootcamp.thinkific.com.
For more resources, visit our podcast page and blog.
In this solo episode of the Paralegals on Fire! Podcast Show, Ann Pearson reflects on what she would have done differently if she was starting out as a paralegal today.
Show Highlights
- Why investing in your paralegal career development early on is key
- Focus on your experience, instead of comparing yourselves to others
- Choosing the right path for you when starting a new paralegal career
Other Podcast Episodes of Interest Episode 1: Get a Paralegal Career Development Plan
Episode 37: 7 Tips from Other Paralegals
Episode 30: 10 Things We’re Glad Have Finally Changed in the Paralegal Profession
Episode 13: 8 Mindsets That Could Be Hurting Your Paralegal Career
Episode 47: How to Get Your Attorney to Invest in Your Career Development
Episode 34: How to Go From Law Firm Receptionist to Director of Legal Support Professionals
Visit Main Paralegal Podcast Page to listen to all of our episodes.
Your Actionable Strategy In all of our podcast episodes, we try to give paralegals an actionable strategy that they can take away from the show because we know your time is valuable.
In this podcast episode, Ann Pearson encourages to start your Career Development Plan with this free template that you can customize.
We would also love to hear what you’ve learned in your paralegal careers! Share in the comments your lessons learned from your own experiences.
Get your 3 Steps to Better Case Management at https://paralegal-bootcamp.com/3steps
Are you a paralegal who wants to skip the learning curve and kickstart your career?
The Paralegal Boot Camp offers online courses to fast-track your paralegal career, including a course on how to master your attention to detail. View our course offerings.
https://paralegal-bootcamp.thinkific.com.
For more resources, visit our podcast page and blog.
In this solo episode of the Paralegals on Fire! Podcast Show, Ann Pearson shares some great tips and actionable strategies to help you succeed at turning your paralegal internship into a job offer.
Internships can be nerve-wracking, but if you have a plan in place for getting the most out of your experience, you will reap the most benefits!
Do you want to turn your paralegal internship into a job offer? In all of our podcast episodes, we try to give paralegals an actionable strategy that they can take away from the show because we know your time is valuable.
In this podcast episode, Ann wants you to read our blog Getting the Most Out of Your Paralegal Internship for great tips on increasing your success.
Performance reviews can be daunting, but listen to our podcast episode How to Turn Your Performance Review into a Career Development Opportunity for advice on how to prepare.
Get more actionable strategies from our guest podcast episode with Kim Bookout on How to Increase Your Career Mobility.
Other Podcast Episodes of Interest: Episode 1: Get a Paralegal Career Development Plan
Episode 12: How to Turn Your Performance Review Into a Career Development Opportunity
Episode 37: 7 Tips from Other Paralegals
Episode 46: Paralegal Career Mobility: What it is and How to Get It
Episode 53: Your Paralegal Career is More Than Just a Job
Visit Main Paralegal Podcast Page to listen to all of our episodes.
Get your 3 Steps to Better Case Management at https://paralegal-bootcamp.com/3steps
Are you a paralegal who wants to skip the learning curve and kickstart your career?
The Paralegal Boot Camp offers online courses to fast-track your paralegal career, including a course on how to master your attention to detail. View our course offerings.
https://paralegal-bootcamp.thinkific.com.
For more resources, visit our podcast page and blog.
In this solo episode of the Paralegals on Fire! Podcast Show, Ann Pearson shares some insight on the positives and negatives of going from a paralegal to a paralegal manager role.
If you’ve ever wondered what challenges and benefits moving into a management role can bring your career, then this episode is for you! Ann even shares a way you can get started today on your career move to management if you choose to go in this direction.
Is a Paralegal Manager Role Your Career Goal? In all of our podcast episodes, we try to give paralegals an actionable strategy that they can take away from the show because we know your time is valuable.
In this podcast episode, Ann wants you to listen to Episode 53 on Your Paralegal Career is More Than Just a Job if you want to move into a paralegal manager role, as the episode provides with a path to develop a career plan.
Other Podcast Episodes of Interest: Episode 1: Get a Paralegal Career Development Plan
Episode 12: How to Turn Your Performance Review Into a Career Development Opportunity
Episode 46: Paralegal Career Mobility: What it is and How to Get It
Episode 53: Your Paralegal Career is More Than Just a Job
Visit Main Paralegal Podcast Page to listen to all of our episodes.
Are you a paralegal who wants to skip the learning curve and kickstart your career?
The Paralegal Boot Camp offers online courses to fast-track your paralegal career, including a course on how to master your attention to detail. View our course offerings.
https://paralegal-bootcamp.thinkific.com.
For more resources, visit our podcast page and blog.
In this solo episode of the Paralegals on Fire! Podcast Show, Ann Pearson points out three areas paralegals find themselves working for free when they shouldn't be. Ann gives you tips on how to avoid giving away your valuable time for free and why it's important.
In the episode, Ann also refers to a free workshop detailing the 3 Things Every Litigation Paralegal Should do to Accelerate Their Career with eDiscovery that you can sign up for here.
Show Highlights
- You'll know common situations where your valuable time can be taken advantage of.
- You won't find yourself saying yes to giving away your knowledge, skills, and time for free!
- Learn how working for free can create tricky situations for those around you.
Your Actionable Strategy 1. Don’t give away your time for free to for-profit companies. Get paid to share your knowledge, like writing for Paralegal Boot Camp. 2. Join our free eDiscovery workshop! 3. Stop working off the clock.
Other Podcast Episodes of Interest Episode 42: eDiscovery in Not a Bad Word
Episode 51: We Should All Be so Lucky to Work at This Law Firm
Episode 53: Your Paralegal Career is More Than Just a Job
Visit Main Paralegal Podcast Page to listen to all of our episodes.
Are you a paralegal who wants to skip the learning curve and kickstart your career?
The Paralegal Boot Camp offers online courses to fast-track your paralegal career, including a course on how to master your attention to detail. View our course offerings.
https://paralegal-bootcamp.thinkific.com.
For more resources, visit our podcast page and blog.
In this solo episode of the Paralegals on Fire! Podcast Show, Ann Pearson puts a new spin on the idea behind the movie “How to Lose a Guy in 10 Days” and gives advice on ten things not to do in your first ten days in your new paralegal job, together with some advice from her prior paralegal management role.
Other Episodes of Interest:
Episode 13: 8 Mindsets That Could Be Hurting Your Paralegal Career
Episode 46: Paralegal Career Mobility: What it is and How to Get it
Episode 46: Paralegal Career Mobility: What it is and How to Get it
Episode 36: Don’t Let Social Media Cost You a Job
Visit Main Paralegal Podcast Page to listen to all of our episodes.
Your Actionable Strategy
Avoid doing the ten things Ann talks about in this episode unless you are actually trying to lose your paralegal job in 10 days.
Are you a paralegal who wants to skip the learning curve and kickstart your career?
The Paralegal Boot Camp offers online courses to fast-track your paralegal career, including a course on how to master your attention to detail. View our course offerings.
https://paralegal-bootcamp.thinkific.com.
For more resources, visit our podcast page and blog.
In this solo episode of the Paralegals on Fire! Podcast Show, Ann Pearson asks the listeners for help with a special paralegal project. She is looking to interview several paralegals (maybe you?!) to highlight the positive side of a paralegal career and to inspire new paralegals who might only see those negative posts about what it’s like to be a paralegal.
Could you or a fellow paralegal be someone to share the good stuff with others? Here are a few examples of rockstar paralegals that Ann discusses in the show:
- Someone who’s maybe only in their 2nd or 3rd year of being a paralegal, but you’re already going to trials, leading big M&A transactions, or otherwise doing work that paralegals don’t typically see early in their career.
- Someone who’s hit the 6-figure mark well before their 10th year.
- Someone who just got a kick-butt promotion early in their career.
Other Podcasts Episodes of Interest:
Episode 13: 8 Mindsets That Could Be Hurting Your Paralegal Career
Episode 1: Get a Paralegal Career Development Plan
Episode 12: How to Turn Your Performance Review Into a Career Development Opportunity
Episode 46: Paralegal Career Mobility: What it is and How to Get it
Episode 53: Your Paralegal Career is More Than Just a Job
Visit Main Paralegal Podcast Page to listen to all of our episodes.
Are you a paralegal who wants to skip the learning curve and kickstart your career?
The Paralegal Boot Camp offers online courses to fast-track your paralegal career, including a course on how to master your attention to detail. View our course offerings.
https://paralegal-bootcamp.thinkific.com.
For more resources, visit our podcast page and blog.
In this solo episode of the Paralegals on Fire! Podcast Show, Ann Pearson shares her experience doing pro bono work and how it can benefit your paralegal career.
Some of the benefits of adding pro bono work include:
- Exposure to other types of work will broaden your knowledge and paralegal skills.
- You get the opportunity to network and meet other paralegals and attorneys outside your organization.
- You might get billable hour credit if you work for a law firm that encourages pro bono work.
- And so much more!
Combining your paralegal skills with an area that you enjoy working in
Other Podcasts That Might be of Interest to You:
Episode 13: 8 Mindsets That Could Be Hurting Your Paralegal Career
Episode 1: Get a Paralegal Career Development Plan
Episode 12: How to Turn Your Performance Review Into a Career Development Opportunity
Episode 46: Paralegal Career Mobility: What it is and How to Get it
Episode 53: Your Paralegal Career is More Than Just a Job
Visit Main Paralegal Podcast Page to listen to all of our episodes.
Actionable Strategy
In all of our podcast episodes, we try to give paralegals an actionable strategy that they can take away from the show because we know your time is valuable.
In this podcast episode, Ann gives five actionable strategies – one of which is to jump in the comments and share your pro bono experience with others!
Are you a paralegal who wants to skip the learning curve and kickstart your career?
The Paralegal Boot Camp offers online courses to fast-track your paralegal career, including a course on how to master your attention to detail. View our course offerings.
https://paralegal-bootcamp.thinkific.com.
For more resources, visit our podcast page and blog.
We’re pulling this one out of the archives for our new listeners because this is such an important message for every paralegal to hear!
In this solo episode of the Paralegals on Fire! Podcast Show, Ann Pearson takes a deep dive into what it means to have paralegal career security and some methods paralegals can look at to achieve that starting now.
Show Highlights
- Why your paralegal career security is just as important as (or maybe even more than!) your job security
- Additional professional certifications that can increase your career security
- Combining your paralegal skills with an area that you enjoy working in
Other Podcast Episodes of Interest
Episode 13: 8 Mindsets That Could Be Hurting Your Paralegal Career
Episode 1: Get a Paralegal Career Development Plan
Episode 12: How to Turn Your Performance Review Into a Career Development Opportunity
Episode 46: Paralegal Career Mobility: What it is and How to Get it
Your Actionable Strategy In all of our podcast episodes, we try to give paralegals an actionable strategy that they can take away from the show because we know your time is valuable.
In this podcast episode, Ann Pearson gives paralegals a list of additional professional certifications they might want to consider working towards that will bring them a higher level of career security.
Start your Career Development Plan with this free template that you can customize.
Are you a paralegal who wants to skip the learning curve and kickstart your career?
The Paralegal Boot Camp offers online courses to fast-track your paralegal career, including a course on how to master your attention to detail. View our course offerings.
https://paralegal-bootcamp.thinkific.com.
For more resources, visit our podcast page and blog.
In this solo episode, Ann answers a question from a paralegal enrolled in the Personal Injury Paralegal Boot Camp: What do I do if I’m starting at a new law firm and I’ve just been assigned to 60 active personal injury files? How can I possibly get up to speed on all these new files without something slipping through the cracks?
You’re not alone! It’s typical for personal injury paralegals to manage anywhere from 50 – 90 or more active pre-litigation personal injury files.
In this episode, Ann gives you three steps that will help you get a handle on those personal injury files. She also provides you with three longer-term strategies to use if you’re new to being a personal injury paralegal.
Actionable Strategies 1. Get the free Personal Injury Case Checklist 2. Check out the additional personal injury paralegal resources below!
Personal Injury Paralegal Resources 19 Tips to Streamline Records Retrieval
Personal Injury Paralegal Boot Camp
Tips for Preparing the Personal Injury Demand Package
5 Tips for Fast Tracking Disbursement After Settlement
Paralegal Tips for Negotiating Client Bills and Liens
**Are you a paralegal who wants to skip the learning curve and kickstart your career?**
The Paralegal Boot Camp offers online courses to fast-track your paralegal career, including a course on how to master your attention to detail. View our course offerings.
https://paralegal-bootcamp.thinkific.com.
For more resources, visit our podcast page and blog.
In this solo episode, Ann brings to light an issue that we’ve all experienced, whether it’s working in a law firm, a corporate legal department, or another organization in the legal industry: the negative nelly who complains about everything.
What can you do if you work with someone who even complains about things like your employer wanting to pay for your professional development?
Show Highlights * An actionable strategy if you are the negative nelly and complain too much * An easy way to get the negative nelly to stop complaining * How to avoid becoming a negative nelly yourself
Your Actionable Strategies 1. Kill them with kindness if you can 2. Steer clear of the negative nelly and the gossip group 3. If you’re the negative nelly: stop ruining it for everyone else!
Other Paralegal Resources Podcast Episode 14 (How the Scarcity Mindset is Hurting the Paralegal Profession)
Podcast Episode 34 (Guest Interview “If you don’t ask, the answer is always no.”)
Podcast Episode 46 (Paralegal Career Mobility)
Podcast Episode 47 (How to Get Your Attorney to Invest in Your Career Development)
Are you a paralegal who wants to skip the learning curve and kickstart your career?
The Paralegal Boot Camp offers online courses to fast-track your paralegal career, including a course on how to master your attention to detail. View our course offerings.
https://paralegal-bootcamp.thinkific.com.
For more resources, visit our podcast page and blog.
In this solo episode, Ann Pearson gives you some insight into the things you can do to accelerate your career as a litigation paralegal.
The Litigation Paralegal Career Accelerator is a framework developed to look at the 3 key categories that can be good predictors of success: mindset, behaviors, and skills. But Ann explores these even further to give you three areas within each of those categories and a sort of checklist to use as you’re developing your career.
Show Highlights * Are you someone who thought you would be getting on-the-job training when you first started your litigation paralegal career? * What to do when you’re new and you’re not sure where to get started with your own training. * Make sure the courses you take are solving a problem! Don’t just take a course for the sake of collecting a CLE certificate. * What if it didn’t have to take a decade to see success in your career?
Your Actionable Strategy 1. Write your own Career Development Plan using a template here. 2. Get a printed view of the different sections of the Litigation Paralegal Career Accelerator here. 3. If you’re new to litigation, enroll in the Litigation Paralegal Boot Camp or another comparable training program so that you are not waiting on others to control how successful you can be.
Are you a paralegal who wants to skip the learning curve and kickstart your career?
The Paralegal Boot Camp offers online courses to fast-track your paralegal career, including a course on how to master your attention to detail. View our course offerings.
https://paralegal-bootcamp.thinkific.com.
For more resources, visit our podcast page and blog.
In this solo episode of the Paralegals on Fire! Podcast Show, Ann Pearson discusses how a litigation paralegal can start a trial notebook (a/k/a trial binder) early in the case instead of waiting until the notice of trial. In doing so, you will be well ahead of the game when it comes time to prep for trial.
Also, throughout the life of the case, the trial notebook is a useful tool when it comes to staying organized and up to date on the case.
Your Actionable Strategy
- Join Ann for the free litigation masterclass coming up next week.
- Get a printed view of the different sections of the trial notebook here.
Are you a paralegal who wants to skip the learning curve and kickstart your career?
The Paralegal Boot Camp offers online courses to fast-track your paralegal career, including a course on how to master your attention to detail. View our course offerings.
https://paralegal-bootcamp.thinkific.com.
For more resources, visit our podcast page and blog.
In this solo episode of the Paralegals on Fire! Podcast Show, Ann Pearson gives you case management tips to help you get up to speed fast on your case and to know what the attorney needs before they ask for it. Ann gives you tips on how to become the information manager on your cases instead of just a document manager.
In the episode, Ann also refers to a PDF detailing the 3 steps that you can use to become an information manager that you can download here.
Show Highlights
- You’ll know what your attorneys need before they ask for it.
- Your attorneys will think you’re the rockstar paralegal who can read their minds!
- This low-tech method doesn’t require expensive case management software, and it will allow you to be the master of information on all of your litigation cases.
Your Actionable Strategy
- Download the 3-Step Plan for proactive case management.
- Join Ann for the free litigation masterclass coming up next week.
- Start a Players List, Case Chronology, and Case To-Do List now for one of your cases.
Are you a paralegal who wants to skip the learning curve and kickstart your career?
The Paralegal Boot Camp offers online courses to fast-track your paralegal career, including a course on how to master your attention to detail. View our course offerings.
https://paralegal-bootcamp.thinkific.com.
For more resources, visit our podcast page and blog.
In this solo episode of the Paralegals on Fire! Podcast Show Ann Pearson gives you tips on how to ask your attorney to invest in your career development and what to do before you ask. She also gives you some insight from a manager’s perspective on things like when to ask and how to increase the likelihood of getting a yes.
Show Highlights
- What if your law firm doesn’t have any specific budget dollars set aside for paralegal professional development?
- What is the worst time of year to ask for funds when you work in a law firm?
- Nine questions that you need to be prepared to answer when you ask for professional development funds.
ARE YOU NEW TO LITIGATION? You can fast-track your career with our 3-Step Roadmap to Manage Cases Like a Rockstar Litigation Paralegal! If you are new (or fairly new) to litigation, this free guide will help you get a handle on your cases and be able to anticipate what the attorney needs before they ask for it.
GET A COPY OF THE FREE GUIDE HERE
Your Actionable Strategy Your one actionable strategy is to be prepared before you ask! The 9 questions that Ann wants you to be prepared to answer before you ask for your attorney to invest in your career development are (be sure to listen to the episode for more details on each of these):
- What is the name and a brief summary of the program that you want to attend?
- What is it that you expect to learn or take away from that program? In other words, what skills will you be gaining?
- What is the cost?
- Is there a discount if the firm wants to send more than one of you?
- When and how will you access the training?
- Will it require you to travel?
- Are you going to need to take time off to attend? If so, are you wanting to get paid for that time or use your PTO time?
- What is the ROI to the employer and to your attorney specifically? What problem is it going to solve for them? Instead of telling them what you’re going to learn, be able to explain how what you are going to learn is going to benefit them.
- Not so much a question, but a bonus step to do in advance of asking…prepare your written career development plan! Here is where you can get a template for one to get you started.
Are you a paralegal who wants to skip the learning curve and kickstart your career?
The Paralegal Boot Camp offers online courses to fast-track your paralegal career, including a course on how to master your attention to detail. View our course offerings.
https://paralegal-bootcamp.thinkific.com.
For more resources, visit our podcast page and blog.
What is paralegal career mobility? It is setting yourself up with the knowledge, skills, and experience that will give you the flexibility to do work that might not even have the word “paralegal” in the title. It could also mean upward mobility in your current paralegal role.
In this episode, Ann interviews Kim Bookout, a former litigation paralegal who embraced and adopted eDiscovery early. That allowed her to move into a litigation support position and later into a role outside the traditional law firm environment.
Kim shares her tips and specific things you can do today for paralegal career mobility. Listen all the way to the end because, in addition to career mobility, Ann asks Kim for some advice on dealing with some difficult personalities at work.
Kim Bookout gave us some actionable strategies to help create mobility in your paralegal career.
- Be professional and kind to EVERYONE.
- Hone your skills.
- Meet people.
- Be ready for when the opportunity presents itself.
Listen to the episode to hear Kim talk about the importance of each of those actionable strategies.
Listen to the podcast episodes Ann mentioned:
Alternative Paralegal Career Options
Paralegal Career Security
Meet Our Podcast Guest
Kim Bookout is a Solution Consultant at Opus 2, where she helps legal teams all over the country effectively use software to analyze key documents, build case chronologies, create deposition designations, and prepare for trial.
Prior to joining Opus 2, Kim had over 20 years of legal experience, beginning as a commercial litigation paralegal and later moving into a litigation support position.
Connect with Kim on LinkedIn
Are You New to Litigation?
You can fast-track your career with our 3-Step Roadmap to Manage Cases Like a Rockstar Litigation Paralegal! If you are new (or fairly new) to litigation, this free guide will help you get a handle on your cases and be able to anticipate what the attorney needs before they ask for it.
GET A COPY OF THE FREE GUIDE HERE
Are you a paralegal who wants to skip the learning curve and kickstart your career?
The Paralegal Boot Camp offers online courses to fast-track your paralegal career, including a course on how to master your attention to detail. View our course offerings.
https://paralegal-bootcamp.thinkific.com.
For more resources, visit our podcast page and blog.
In this episode, Ann interviews Eda Rosa, a freelance paralegal who started her own company to find better balance and more freedom. But, as she reminds us, there are trade-offs to consider when you’re breaking out on your own. Eda gives listeners the pros and cons of being a freelance paralegal to help you make a better-informed decision if you’re on the fence about breaking out on your own.
Sure, you get to decide how many hours you work and when you work them; but you’re still working for lawyers who have time crunches and urgent deadlines. Eda gives you tips on how she’s been able to make it all work.
ARE YOU NEW TO LITIGATION? You can fast-track your career with our 3-Step Roadmap to Manage Cases Like a Rockstar Litigation Paralegal! If you are new (or fairly new) to litigation, this free guide will help you get a handle on your cases and be able to anticipate what the attorney needs before they ask for it.
GET A COPY OF THE FREE GUIDE HERE
Are you a paralegal who wants to skip the learning curve and kickstart your career?
The Paralegal Boot Camp offers online courses to fast-track your paralegal career, including a course on how to master your attention to detail. View our course offerings.
https://paralegal-bootcamp.thinkific.com.
For more resources, visit our podcast page and blog.
In this solo episode, Ann announces a paralegal survey that the Paralegal Boot Camp developed to get answers to some of our burning questions.
Questions like: Are you happy with where you work?
Do you feel valued and appreciated?
What could your employer do to improve your level of job satisfaction?
Other Episodes Mentioned:
Episode 38 on how to get past paralegal burnout.
Episode 22 was an interview with a fellow paralegal who gave us some great tips on self-care.
Also, in Episode 13 when Ann interviewed Dan Moulder about mindset shifts at work.
LISTEN TO ALL PODCAST EPISODES
Actionable Strategies
Ann gave two actionable strategies in this episode:
- Take the paralegal survey: https://paralegal-bootcamp.com/survey
- Share the survey (or the podcast episode) with at least three (3) of your colleagues or friends who are paralegals.
Are you a paralegal who wants to skip the learning curve and kickstart your career?
The Paralegal Boot Camp offers online courses to fast-track your paralegal career, including a course on how to master your attention to detail. View our course offerings.
https://paralegal-bootcamp.thinkific.com.
For more resources, visit our podcast page and blog.
Linda Odermott, NFPA certified paralegal and Oregon Certified Paralegal, discusses the process that she and a team of others went through in Oregon related to the paralegal licensing program that has been in the works in Oregon for over ten years.
Linda also enlightens us on how paralegal licensing can benefit paralegals, the paralegal profession, and the community. Several states (including Washington, Utah, Arizona, and Minnesota) already have some level of paralegal licensing, and that list now includes Oregon thanks to the decision that recently came in from the Oregon Supreme Court.
Are you a paralegal who wants to skip the learning curve and kickstart your career?
The Paralegal Boot Camp offers online courses to fast-track your paralegal career, including a course on how to master your attention to detail. View our course offerings.
https://paralegal-bootcamp.thinkific.com.
For more resources, visit our podcast page and blog.
The debate has been going on for some time on whether paralegal licensing (or regulation) would be a good thing or a bad thing for the paralegal profession. But what about whether or not it’s a good thing for the community? Here are just a few statistics:
- Did you know that over seventy percent (70%) of small civil and family law cases don’t have legal representation because they can’t afford it?
- A majority of the general public does not trust lawyers and the court system. 84% of the people surveyed in Oregon as part of the research into this licensing program said that if they needed a lawyer, they either would not know where to find one or couldn’t afford one.
- We all think legal aid and pro bono should resolve the access to justice issue. But, in order to meet the current needs, every attorney licensed in this country would need to put in 150 hours of pro bono time every year.
This episode will inform you AND inspire you!
In this episode of the Paralegals on Fire! Podcast Show, Ann talks about the importance of eDiscovery and how it has been a game changer for so many litigation paralegals.
Whether you are just starting out your career as a litigation paralegal, or you’ve been holding off on embracing eDiscovery or technology in your practice area for a while, this episode will help you understand why gaining these skills in eDiscovery matter!
Show Highlights:
- Why embracing eDiscovery matters when it comes to career security
- Examples of how eDiscovery can help you work more efficiently
- How this now required skill can open up more opportunities
In this episode, Ann encourages you to reserve your seat for our upcoming masterclass. Join us for our FREE masterclass Why EVERY litigation paralegal should be a MASTER in eDiscovery on August 25 at
12PM EST and learn how to level up in your career for more opportunities, increased job security, and more money! We can’t wait to show you what’s possible.
Are you a paralegal who wants to skip the learning curve and kickstart your career?
The Paralegal Boot Camp offers online courses to fast-track your paralegal career, including a course on how to master your attention to detail. View our course offerings.
https://paralegal-bootcamp.thinkific.com.
For more resources, visit our podcast page and blog.
Being a personal injury paralegal can be stressful and rewarding at the same time.
In this solo episode, Ann gives you some tips on how to stand out as a rockstar personal injury paralegal. Like all episodes, you’ll walk away with some actionable strategies and some motivation!
Show Highlights
- The three “hats” a personal injury paralegal wears
- Nine things you can do to stand out in your paralegal role
- The importance of finding the bottleneck that’s holding up the PI claim files
Your Actionable Strategy Level up these skills to ensure your success as a personal injury paralegal:
- Learn the basics of anatomy and medicine
- Know the statute of limitations period
- Learn medication abbreviations
- Understand medical terminology
- Know how to obtain medical records quickly and efficiently
- Develop templates and keep improving them
- Keep a database of outside experts
- Know the litigation process
- Listen to the full episode to get #9!
Ann gives you a free New Case Checklist for Personal Injury Paralegals and suggests joining the Personal Injury Paralegal Boot Camp to accelerate your paralegal career. Are you a paralegal who wants to skip the learning curve and kickstart your career?
The Paralegal Boot Camp offers online courses to fast-track your paralegal career, including a course on how to master your attention to detail. View our course offerings.
https://paralegal-bootcamp.thinkific.com.
For more resources, visit our podcast page and blog.
The legal industry is slowly but surely moving towards automation and away from paper-based processes. Of course, this is good for the industry and good that it can free up a paralegal’s time to work on higher-level work. However, this has started the conversation as to how it might affect the people working in this industry, especially paralegals.
The question of where robots will leave paralegals in the coming years is a crucial one, and that’s what Ann is discussing in this week’s podcast show.
Show Highlights
- The difference between AI and automation; and how those might change a paralegal’s role
- How some specific paralegal skills might be compared to a robot using those skills
- The pros and cons of automation
Your Actionable Strategy 1. Embrace the technology 2. Improve your problem-solving skills 3. Work on your critical-thinking skills 4. Focus on your career security
Episodes and articles mentioned by Ann in this episode:
Podcast Episode 5: Paralegal Career Security
Podcast Episode 15: Problem-solving skills
Things we’re glad to have changed in the paralegal profession
Brett Surbey blog article: Critical Thinking – What it is, Why it is Important, and How to Improve it
Litigation Boot Camp
Are you a paralegal who wants to skip the learning curve and kickstart your career?
The Paralegal Boot Camp offers online courses to fast-track your paralegal career, including a course on how to master your attention to detail. View our course offerings.
https://paralegal-bootcamp.thinkific.com.
For more resources, visit our podcast page and blog.
In this episode of the Paralegals on Fire! Podcast Show, Ann interviews Bert Binder, a former paralegal and the founder of Paralegal Career Coach, to bring you some great advice on the impacts, trends, and career opportunities for the paralegal profession.
Show Highlights:
- Why every paralegal should write their own resume and not outsource it
- One of the often overlooked employment opportunities for entry-level paralegals
- What to do when the salary in the employment offer is too low
- Other factors to consider beyond just the paralegal salary
In all of our podcast episodes, we try to give paralegals an actionable strategy that they can take away from the show because we know your time is valuable.
- Be prepared now to be able to take advantage when that opportunity opens up.
- Don’t leave your career to chance. Set career goals and make them happen, rather than hoping something comes your way.
- Listen to the podcast episode on going from receptionist to firm-wide director.
- Listen to the podcast episode about paralegal burnout if you think you are headed there.
- If you are looking for a career change, contact The Paralegal Career Coach.
Are you a paralegal who wants to skip the learning curve and kickstart your career?
The Paralegal Boot Camp offers online courses to fast-track your paralegal career, including a course on how to master your attention to detail. View our course offerings.
https://paralegal-bootcamp.thinkific.com.
For more resources, visit our podcast page and blog.
Are you really busy and stressed? Or are you headed towards paralegal burnout?
We’re going to talk about paralegal burnout in this week’s episode, but just like all of our other podcast episodes, Ann also gives you some actionable strategies to help get you out of paralegal burnout so that eventually, you can enjoy your career again.
In the show, Ann discusses how to recognize when paralegal burnout is headed your way. And like all of the podcast episodes, she gives you some actionable strategies to help you overcome burnout.
Show Highlights
- Burnout is costing us billions of dollars per year
- Nine symptoms to look out for when you’re headed toward burnout
- Five things to do now to prevent or reduce the impact of burnout if you’re already there
Actionable Strategies
Write these five things on a post-it note and put it next to your computer as a reminder each day to:
- Find your available resources
- Take a break
- Review work habits
- Find time for self-care
- Set boundaries
In this podcast episode, Ann also suggested you listen to the full episode on Self-Care for Paralegals and read the blog article from Ana Londona on 6 Tips to Reduce Paralegal Stress.
Are you a paralegal who wants to skip the learning curve and kickstart your career?
The Paralegal Boot Camp offers online courses to fast-track your paralegal career, including a course on how to master your attention to detail. View our course offerings.
https://paralegal-bootcamp.thinkific.com.
For more resources, visit our podcast page and blog.
In this solo episode of the Paralegals on Fire! Podcast Show, Ann Pearson shares 7 tips other paralegals have sent her over the years.
Hear some great advice from your colleagues and leave some of your own in the comments below!
In all of our podcast episodes, we try to give paralegals an actionable strategy that they can take away from the show because we know your time is valuable.
In this podcast episode, Ann encourages you to implement some of the great tips from this episode and check out Episode 31 for more great paralegal tips.
Are you a paralegal who wants to skip the learning curve and kickstart your career?
The Paralegal Boot Camp offers online courses to fast-track your paralegal career, including a course on how to master your attention to detail. View our course offerings.
https://paralegal-bootcamp.thinkific.com.
For more resources, visit our podcast page and blog.
In this solo episode of the Paralegals on Fire! Podcast Show, Ann Pearson provides examples of paralegals showing really poor judgement on social media and and how that cost them their jobs.
She highlights trends in the industry that point to law firms screening individuals’ social media accounts prior to hiring and also while on the job. It is alarming how much of your data social media companies keep! Ann gives you tips you can use to protect yourself and your job.
In all of our podcast episodes, we try to give paralegals an actionable strategy that they can take away from the show because we know your time is valuable.
In this podcast episode, Ann wants you to protect your job on social media
Strategy #1: Review your firm’s social media policy
Strategy #2: Don’t film yourself at work
Strategy #3: Never post anything about your boss or a colleague, that would embarrass you if they found out.
Strategy #4: Don’t try to win an argument on the internet
Are you a paralegal who wants to skip the learning curve and kickstart your career?
The Paralegal Boot Camp offers online courses to fast-track your paralegal career, including a course on how to master your attention to detail. View our course offerings.
https://paralegal-bootcamp.thinkific.com.
For more resources, visit our podcast page and blog.
In this solo episode of the Paralegals on Fire! Podcast Show, Ann Pearson shares some actionable strategies that you can do right now that have the potential to increase your pay, job security and future job prospects.
If you've every wondered "Why should I care how many billable hours I have, it's only making the firm more money not me?" then this episode if for you! Ann covers why it matters particularly for paralegals with billable hour requirements and shares three easy tips you can start today that might make the difference in whether or not you meet your annual goal.
In all of our podcast episodes, we try to give paralegals an actionable strategy that they can take away from the show because we know your time is valuable.
In this podcast episode, Ann wants you to listen to Episode 27 for Paralegal Time Management Tips.
Strategy #1: Change your mindset about billable hours. Make billable hours work to your advantage!
Strategy #2: Understand your role as a timekeeper.
Strategy #3: Use your timer to capture ALL those billable hours
Are you a paralegal who wants to skip the learning curve and kickstart your career?
The Paralegal Boot Camp offers online courses to fast-track your paralegal career, including a course on how to master your attention to detail. View our course offerings.
https://paralegal-bootcamp.thinkific.com.
For more resources, visit our podcast page and blog.
In this guest episode of the Paralegals on Fire! Podcast Show, Ann Pearson has a very special guest and this episode is going to inspire you, whether you’re a new paralegal, struggling to break into the field or an experienced paralegal who thinks there’s no such thing as a career ladder for a paralegal.
Kim Barrett is the Director of Paralegals and Legal Professionals at a Global Law Firm and her story is important for you to hear. Kim started her paralegal career as a part-time night receptionist at a law firm. She shares her amazing journey and career along with some great tips for paralegals.
In all of our podcast episodes, we try to give paralegals an actionable strategy that they can take away from the show because we know your time is valuable.
In this podcast episode, Kim Barrett suggested that paralegals connect with their colleagues. Join your paralegal organization. Speak to colleagues at other firms. Ask questions and don’t take No, for an answer. Keep moving forward. Remember: If you don’t ask the answer will always be No!
Are you a paralegal who wants to skip the learning curve and kickstart your career?
The Paralegal Boot Camp offers online courses to fast-track your paralegal career, including a course on how to master your attention to detail. View our course offerings.
https://paralegal-bootcamp.thinkific.com.
For more resources, visit our podcast page and blog.
In this solo episode of the Paralegals on Fire! Podcast Show, Ann Pearson gives you actionable strategies to use if you are a paralegal working in other practice areas and you want to transition to litigation. While Ann answers a specific question from a listener who is a real estate paralegal and wants to transition to litigation, the actionable strategies she gives can be applied to others as well.
In the episode, Ann also refers to a PDF that we've included below in the episode notes.
Show Highlights
- It all starts with a list! Doesn't it always?
- A self-assessment is key before making a move.
- Will the pros and cons change in the new practice area?
- The job description is key when you're making the case for a transition.
- Start getting those skills now instead of waiting until you ask to transition.
If you are a new (or fairly new) litigation paralegal or you're looking to transition to litigation, you don't want to miss the Litigation Paralegal Boot Camp that closes for enrollment on June 16, 2022!
- Make a list of the things you like about your current practice area (and do the 4 steps Ann mentions with the list).
- Read the job description and make a list of all the skills the employer wants in that role.
- Go get the skills that you don't have that are in that job description.
- Talk to paralegals who are in that new practice area.
Other episodes mentioned in this show:
Episode 27 (May 3, 2022): Paralegal Time Management Tips Listen to Episode
In this solo episode of the Paralegals on Fire! Podcast Show, Ann shares three great paralegal time management tips to reduce distractions, increase productivity and get you out of the office sooner!
Are you a paralegal who wants to skip the learning curve and kickstart your career?
The Paralegal Boot Camp offers online courses to fast-track your paralegal career, including a course on how to master your attention to detail. View our course offerings.
https://paralegal-bootcamp.thinkific.com.
For more resources, visit our podcast page and blog.
In this solo episode of the Paralegals on Fire! Podcast Show, Ann Pearson suggests that a new litigation paralegal should look at three key areas early in their career: mindset, behaviors, and skills. If you only focus on the paralegal skills that you might be lacking early in your career, then you might spend too much time focused on how many decades it will take you to gain all of those skills.
Show Highlights
- A discussion on the framework that is part of the Litigation Paralegal Career Accelerator
- Paralegal skills can be learned, but you also have to think about your mindset and behaviors
- The 3 mindsets to kickstart your paralegal career
Your Actionable Strategy If you are a new (or fairly new) litigation paralegal, reserve your seat in the free masterclass that Ann mentioned in this episode. https://paralegal-bootcamp.com/masterclass.
Other episodes mentioned in this show:
Episode 5: Forget about job security, let's talk about career security!
Episode 3: Add mind-reading to your paralegal skillset
Are you a paralegal who wants to skip the learning curve and kickstart your career?
The Paralegal Boot Camp offers online courses to fast-track your paralegal career, including a course on how to master your attention to detail. View our course offerings.
https://paralegal-bootcamp.thinkific.com.
For more resources, visit our podcast page and blog.
In this Q & A style episode of the Paralegals on Fire! Podcast Show, Ann focuses on questions she receives from new paralegals but with a twist!
She surveyed paralegals awhile back for the advice they would give new paralegals. She found the ones related to litigation paralegals and she shares five of them in this episode.
Topics include case management, technology and mastering excel! Tune in to hear some great advice from experienced litigation paralegals.
Your Actionable Strategy In all of our podcast episodes, we try to give paralegals an actionable strategy that they can take away from the show because we know your time is valuable.
In this episode, Ann mentions her blog post on Preparing a Trial Notebook and Podcast Episode 28: 3 Ways to Work Better With Attorneys.
SIGN UP FOR HER FREE MASTER CLASS HERE
Are you a paralegal who wants to skip the learning curve and kickstart your career?
The Paralegal Boot Camp offers online courses to fast-track your paralegal career, including a course on how to master your attention to detail. View our course offerings.
https://paralegal-bootcamp.thinkific.com.
For more resources, visit our podcast page and blog.
In this solo episode of the Paralegals on Fire! Podcast Show, Ann shares the 10 things she’s glad have finally changed in the paralegal profession. From pantyhose to fax machines, the last 30 years have brought many beneficial changes to the paralegal profession. Join Ann in celebrating these changes and looking toward future changes.
If you’d like to add to the list, submit your additions to support@paralegal-bootcamp.com or leave them in the comments below.
ARE YOU NEW TO LITIGATION? You can fast-track your career with our 3-Step Roadmap to Manage Cases Like a Rockstar Paralegal! If you are new (or fairly new) to litigation, this free guide will help you get a handle on your cases and be able to anticipate what the attorney needs before they ask for it.
GET A COPY OF THE FREE GUIDE HERE
Are you a paralegal who wants to skip the learning curve and kickstart your career?
The Paralegal Boot Camp offers online courses to fast-track your paralegal career, including a course on how to master your attention to detail. View our course offerings.
https://paralegal-bootcamp.thinkific.com.
For more resources, visit our podcast page and blog.
In this solo episode of the Paralegals on Fire! Podcast Show, Ann discusses three common mistakes new paralegals make when trying to land their first paralegal position and it's also good advice for any paralegal who may be looking for a new position.
Show Highlights:
- How to make sure your resume is flawless
- Taking the time to draft individual cover letters for each position
- How your mindset can affect your interview
In all of our podcast episodes, we try to give paralegals an actionable strategy that they can take away from the show because we know your time is valuable.
In this episode, Ann asked you to watch her video with 3 Tips for a Great Paralegal Resume
10 Things Attorneys Look for in a Paralegal podcast episode has attention to detail as the #1 thing attorneys look for with some great tips on how to increase your attention to detail.
Are you a paralegal who wants to skip the learning curve and kickstart your career?
The Paralegal Boot Camp offers online courses to fast-track your paralegal career, including a course on how to master your attention to detail. View our course offerings.
https://paralegal-bootcamp.thinkific.com.
For more resources, visit our podcast page and blog.
In this solo episode of the Paralegals on Fire! Podcast Show, Ann shares some advice on how to work better with attorneys. She covers three tips from dealing with procrastination to the lack of management/leadership skills in attorneys and shares actionable strategies that you can use in your paralegal career to start working better with attorneys today!
Show Highlights:
- Why procrastination is not a joking matter in the legal industry.
- Activities that can help you become more self-confident at speaking up!
- How complaining to your co-workers can hurt your career and a better alternative.
In all of our podcast episodes, we try to give paralegals an actionable strategy that they can take away from the show because we know your time is valuable.
In this episode, Ann asked you to speak up and have conversations with your attorneys about the ways you work best.
Manage Cases Like a Rockstar Paralegal here
The Paralegal Boot Camp offers online courses to fast-track your paralegal career. View our course offerings.
https://paralegal-bootcamp.thinkific.com.
In this solo episode of the Paralegals on Fire! Podcast Show, Ann shares three great paralegal time management tips to reduce distractions, increase productivity and get you out of the office sooner!
Show Highlights:
- How multi-tasking aka task switching is significantly impacting your time management
- Why a task list is a more effective time management tool than a project list
- Apps that can help you get big chunks of undistracted work done!
In all of our podcast episodes, we try to give paralegals an actionable strategy that they can take away from the show because we know your time is valuable.
In this episode, Ann suggested several apps that can help with focus and time management.
Here are a few:
Focus Keeper
Pomodoro Focus
Forest
Marinara Pomodoro Assistant
Toggl (also a time-tracker)
The Paralegal Boot Camp offers online courses to fast-track your paralegal career. View our course offerings.
https://paralegal-bootcamp.thinkific.com.
For more resources, visit our podcast page and blog.
In this solo episode of the Paralegals on Fire! Podcast Show, Ann shares the top 10 things attorneys say they look for in paralegals. She got input from attorneys across all practice areas, working in law firms, corporate legal department and government agencies. They gave some great tips as well! Show Highlights:
- Attention to Detail
- Problem-solving
- Technology Skills
- Proactive Mindset
- Professionalism and Accountability
- Time Management
- Research Skills
- Positive Attitude
- Communication Skills
- Organization Skills
Check out these previous podcasts episodes on problem-solving and communication skills:
Episode 15 (January 18, 2022): Be the Problem-Solver Paralegal Listen to Episode
The problem-solving skill is one of the skills that every attorney says they want in a paralegal. How do you improve that skill? This is how you do it!
Episode 23 (March 15, 2022): A Refresher on the 7 C’s of Paralegal Communication Listen to Episode
In this solo episode of the Paralegals on Fire! Podcast Show, Ann Pearson breaks down the 7 C’s as it applies to paralegal communication and gives you some tips on how to become a more effective communicator.
In all of our podcast episodes, we try to give paralegals an actionable strategy that they can take away from the show because we know your time is valuable.
In this episode, Ann suggested coming up with specific examples and/or situations that you can tell employers about to show you have those skills.
Get a copy of the free 3-Step Roadmap to Manage Cases Like a Rockstar Paralegal here
The Paralegal Boot Camp offers online courses to fast-track your paralegal career. View our course offerings.
https://paralegal-bootcamp.thinkific.com.
In this guest episode of the Paralegals on Fire! Podcast Show, Ann asked guest experts Andrea Pileggi and Kevin Gerami to answer your eDiscovery questions. Andrea and Kevin are with Ricoh, a global leader in technology and service delivery, that offers the best in class technology and service-based eDiscovery solutions for litigation inside of law firms, as well as corporations. Andrea is a Senior eDiscovery Consultant and Kevin is an eDiscovery Account Executive in Ricoh’s eDiscovery division.
Whether you are just starting out your career as a litigation paralegal, or you’ve been deep in the trenches of eDiscovery for a while, you will get a lot of great information in this episode!
Show Highlights:
- What is CAL and how does it work?
- Red flags to watch for when choosing an eDiscovery vendor
- Why it’s important to have a migration strategy at the start of your project.
In all of our podcast episodes, we try to give paralegals an actionable strategy that they can take away from the show because we know your time is valuable.
In this episode, Ann urged you to reach out to our guest experts if you have eDiscovery questions that didn’t get answered in today’s episode:
Andrea Pileggi
andrea.pileggi@ricoh-usa.com
Kevin Gerami
kevin.gerami@ricoh-usa.com
Get a copy of the free 3-Step Roadmap to Manage Cases Like a Rockstar Paralegal here
For more resources, visit our podcast page and blog.
In this solo episode of the Paralegals on Fire! Podcast Show, Ann Pearson shares some personal news and reflects on whether taking some meaningful time to rest and recharge might make paralegals better able to support their teams.
Paralegals on Fire! is taking a hiatus but will return with all new shows on April 19, 2022! Make sure to subscribe in your favorite podcast app to be notified when the new shows drop. In the meantime, Ann mentions 3 previous episodes you should check out for great tips.
Previous Episodes:
- Episode 5: Forget About Job Security, Let’s Talk About Career Security
- Episode 13: 8 Mindsets Mindsets that Could be Hurting Your Paralegal Career with Dan Moulder
- Episode 22: Self-care to Reduce Paralegal Stress with Heather Gonzalez
In all of our podcast episodes, we try to give paralegals an actionable strategy that they can take away from the show because we know your time is valuable.
In this episode, Ann challenges YOU to take a break!
In all of our podcast episodes, we try to give paralegals an actionable strategy that they can take away from the show because we know your time is valuable.
In this episode, Ann challenges YOU to take a break!
Get a copy of the free 3-Step Roadmap to Manage Cases Like a Rockstar Paralegal here.
For more resources visit our blog and podcast page.
In this solo episode of the Paralegals on Fire! Podcast Show, Ann Pearson breaks down the 7 C's as it applies to paralegal communication and gives you some tips on how to become a more effective communicator.
Show Highlights
- Are you using redundant words such as: unanimous vs. completely unanimous?
- Why you always need to be courteous even when the other party is not.
- Why you should never put anything in writing that you would not be comfortable seeing on the front page news!
The 7 C's
- Clear
- Concise
- Confident
- Correct
- Credible
- Complete
- Courteous
In all of our podcast episodes, we try to give paralegals an actionable strategy that they can take away from the show because we know your time is valuable.
In this episode, Ann suggested adding a grammar tool such as Grammarly to your tech tool kit.
For more resources, visit our blog and podcast page.
The Paralegal Boot Camp offers online courses to fast-track your paralegal career. View our course offerings.
https://paralegal-bootcamp.thinkific.com.
In this guest episode of the Paralegals on Fire! Podcast Show, Ann Pearson talks with Heather Gonzalez, a paralegal who is also a Certified Nutritionist, 500 hour Yoga teacher, Wellness Coach, Personal trainer, Master Herbalist, and Mindful Coach about the importance of self-care for paralegals.
In the show, Ann and Heather discuss the five different types of self-care and some simple steps paralegals can take right now to reduce stress that can lead to a better quality of life and more productivity at work.
Show Highlights
- Why you don’t need an elaborate routine to practice self-care
- Self-care tips that take less than 10 minutes per day
- What is financial self-care?
- How to meditate when you can’t sit still
In all of our podcast episodes, we try to give paralegals an actionable strategy that they can take away from the show because we know your time is valuable.
In this podcast episode, Heather put together a Self-Care Reference Sheet. You can get your copy here.
You can also get a copy of Heather’s Book, Release, the guide to getting rid of weight that doesn’t want to let go of you! Here
For more resources, visit our blog or podcast page.
Are you a paralegal wanting to skip past the learning curve and kickstart your paralegal career?
The Paralegal Boot Camp offers online courses to fast-track your paralegal career. View our course offerings.
https://paralegal-bootcamp.thinkific.com.
In this solo episode of the Paralegals on Fire! Podcast Show, Ann Pearson takes a look at the educational options available today for paralegals and guides you through the process of choosing what school or option is best for you.
Show Highlights
- Position statements on short-term paralegal courses and how they affect the paralegal profession.
- Does your school need to be ABA approved?
- How do you find out which schools law firms are hiring from?
- Does your school or program meet the requirements for certification?
In all of our podcast episodes, we try to give paralegals an actionable strategy that they can take away from the show because we know your time is valuable.
In this podcast episode, Ann Pearson recommended that you read the “position and policy statements about short-term paralegal courses” by searching online.
She also recommended that you use martindale.com to search for law firms in your area to reach out to and ask them what educational programs they are hiring from for paralegals.
Are you a paralegal wanting to cut out the learning curve and kickstart your paralegal career?
The Paralegal Boot Camp offers online courses to fast-track your paralegal career. View our course offerings.
https://paralegal-bootcamp.thinkific.com.
In this solo episode of the Paralegals on Fire! Podcast Show, Ann discusses three key metrics you should know if you are working in a law firm that has a billable hour requirement.
Show Highlights
- Learn how to calculate your utilization, realization and productivity rates.
- Tips to improve your numbers.
- How tracking these key metrics can fast track your career!
In this podcast episode, Ann discussed two actionable strategies:
Actionable Strategy #1: Start tracking your important numbers today!
Utilization = 1200 hours (actual hours billed) divided into 1,500 (budgeted) billable hours = 80% utilization.
Realization = It is calculated like this: Amount Collected/Amount Entered into the system (at full rate).
Profitability = Your productivity number is the percentage of time spent on billable work compared to the total hours worked (not paid). You can measure this by dividing hours billed into hours worked (not paid hours, just worked hours).
Actionable Strategy #2: Check out the Billable Hour Bootcamp
For more information visit our blog and podcast page.
In this solo episode of the Paralegals on Fire! Podcast Show, Ann Pearson discusses alternative paralegal careers and how to decide if one might be right for you. This list is from paralegals Ann has met or worked with who went on to have these job titles, just to give you an idea of what’s available. The list could be endless!
List of Alternative Paralegal Careers:
- Project Manager or a sales position for legal support vendor
- Legislative Affairs Director for a county government agency
- Business Development/Sales for legal support vendor
- Professional Blogger/Marketer to the legal field
- Mediator
- Legal Staffing Recruiter
- Professional Development and Training Manager
- Pro Bono Program Coordinator
- Foreclosure Specialist
- Contracts Administrator
- Investigator
- Process Server
- Conflicts Specialist for a law firm
- Litigation Support Analyst
- Executive position at a venture capital company
- Compliance Specialist
- Director of Information Management
In all of our podcast episodes, we try to give paralegals an actionable strategy that they can take away from the show because we know your time is valuable.
In this podcast episode, Ann Pearson discussed some steps that you can take today to decide if an alternative paralegal career is for you!
Step 1: Take a pause, turn everything off and just think. What are you passionate about? What makes you happy? What do enjoy or not enjoy about your current position?
Step 2: Take a career assessment or talk to a career coach. Consider taking an Enneagram, Myers-Briggs or MAPP personality assessment.
Step 3: Update your resume from the perspective of landing that new career position.
Step 4: Use our spreadsheet to update your career development plan to acquire the skills you will need. You can download it here.
For more resources, visit our blog and podcast page.
Are you a paralegal wanting to cut out the learning curve and kickstart your paralegal career?
The Paralegal Boot Camp offers online courses to fast-track your paralegal career. View our course offerings.
https://paralegal-bootcamp.thinkific.com.
In part two of this two-part solo episode of the Paralegals on Fire! Podcast Show, Ann Pearson talks you through taking a specific goal and making it a S.M.A.R.T.E.R. goal that is measurable, attainable, actionable, relevant and time bound.
Show Highlights
- Return on investment – how much is your time worth?
- Breaking your goals down to actionable steps
- How to use the goal tracking spreadsheet to check-in and re-evaluate your goals.
In all of our podcast episodes, we try to give paralegals an actionable strategy that they can take away from the show because we know your time is valuable.
In this podcast episode, Ann Pearson discussed giving you spreadsheet to help you track your goals and achieve them. You can download it here.
Are you a paralegal wanting to cut out the learning curve and kickstart your paralegal career?
The Paralegal Boot Camp offers online courses to fast-track your paralegal career. View our course offerings.
https://paralegal-bootcamp.thinkific.com.
In this two-part solo episode of the Paralegals on Fire! Podcast Show, Ann Pearson takes a deep dive into how using the S.M.A.R.T.E.R method of goal setting can advance your paralegal career.
Show Highlights
- Focusing on our behaviors is the critical action step to achieving goals
- The scientific reason it might not be a good idea to announce your goals
- A goal is just a wish without a plan
In all of our podcast episodes, we try to give paralegals an actionable strategy that they can take away from the show because we know your time is valuable.
In this podcast episode, Ann Pearson discussed giving you a worksheet to draft a “specific” goal. Download the template here, draft your goal(s) and join us next week when Ann shows you how to put those goals into action.
For more resources visit our blog and podcast page.
In this solo episode of the Paralegals on Fire! Podcast Show, Ann Pearson answers your paralegal job search questions. She offers tips for resume writing, interviewing, paid internships, and more. Tune in for strategies to help you navigate the paralegal employment market and succeed in landing that new position.
Show Highlights
- The part of your resume that should be treated as prime beachfront real estate
- Good questions to ask your interviewer that can also highlight your skills
- The benefits and pitfalls of a paid internship
In all of our podcast episodes, we try to give paralegals an actionable strategy that they can take away from the show because we know your time is valuable.
Actionable Strategy #1: Read our guest blog post writer, Brett Surbey’s article on Getting the Most Out of Your Paralegal Internship
Actionable Strategy #2: Listen to Podcast Episode 8 – Is it Time to Move to Another Practice Area? with Molly McGrath for the hottest practice areas for paralegals right now.
Are you a paralegal wanting to cut out the learning curve and kickstart your paralegal career?
The Paralegal Boot Camp offers online courses to fast-track your paralegal career. View our course offerings.
https://paralegal-bootcamp.thinkific.com.
You can find more resources here on our blog and podcast page.
In this solo episode of the Paralegals on Fire! Podcast Show, Ann Pearson is on a mission to help make You a better problem solver. One of the #1 traits attorneys are looking for in their paralegals is the problem-solving skill. Ann lays out some of the best practices and techniques for problem-solving in the legal industry and a few tools to keep you on top of your game.
Show Highlights
- How to present problems and solutions to attorneys using the 4 "W" and 1 "H" method
- Uncover the underlying cause of your problems using the 5 Why method
- Why Quality Assurance and Quality Control are important tools in preventing problems
In all of our podcast episodes, we try to give paralegals an actionable strategy that they can take away from the show because we know your time is valuable.
Actionable Strategy #1: Start using one or more of the problem solving techniques and see which one works best for solving your problem. It might be a different technique for different problems. Then take it to the next level and get to the root cause of the problem, so that you can figure out a way to prevent the problem from happening again.
Actionable Strategy #2: Ann discussed two apps to use to help you and your brain with critical thinking for enhanced problem solving, memory and focus.
Try Elevate here: https://elevateapp.com/
Try Lumosity here: https://www.lumosity.com/en/
Are you a paralegal wanting to cut out the learning curve and kickstart your paralegal career?
The Paralegal Boot Camp offers online courses to fast-track your paralegal career. View our course offerings.
https://paralegal-bootcamp.thinkific.com.
For more resources please visit our blog and podcast page.
In this solo episode of the Paralegals on Fire! Podcast Show, Ann Pearson discusses the elephant in the room that no one wants to talk about: how the scarcity mindset is a problem in the paralegal profession. What is the scarcity mindset? It’s when someone thinks that they can’t be successful if others are. And it shows itself when paralegals are not willing to share their knowledge and skills with others because they think there can only be one rockstar paralegal in the room. It’s one of the reasons why employers are reluctant to hire entry-level paralegals – because most of us know that this is happening and don’t know what to do to fix it. Join Ann for this frank discussion and keep the conversation going by being the paralegal with an abundance mindset who wants to help EVERY paralegal succeed.
Show Highlights
- How social media comments motivated this discussion
- It absolutely does not take 10, 20, or 30 years of experience to be a rockstar paralegal
- Advice for new paralegals who are not getting the mentoring or training they need
In all of our podcast episodes, we try to give paralegals an actionable strategy that they can take away from the show because we know your time is valuable.
If you are a new (or fairly new) litigation paralegal, reserve your seat in the free masterclass that Ann mentioned in this episode. https://paralegal-bootcamp.com/masterclass
You can fast-track your career with our 3-Step Roadmap to Manage Cases Like a Rockstar Paralegal! If you are new (or fairly new) to litigation, this free guide will help you get a handle on your cases and be able to anticipate what the attorney needs before they ask for it.
GET A COPY OF THE FREE GUIDE HERE
For more resources please visit our blog and podcast page.
In this guest episode of the Paralegals on Fire! Podcast Show, Ann Pearson talks with Dan Moulder, paralegal manager and author of the book “The Lunch.” In the book, Dan tells a story about an annual corporate lunch that highlights eight characters with mindsets that are limiting them in life and work. In the show, Ann and Dan discuss how paralegals can apply the lessons learned in the book to their careers and what they can do to change these limiting mindsets.
In addition to some great advice on these mindsets, Dan also gives us insight into the process of writing a book for those of you who may be thinking about writing a book.
Show Highlights
- How self-awareness can help you achieve success
- How to know if you have any of these limiting mindsets
- The importance of knowing when to speak up
- Recognizing that changing your mindset could make you happier at work
In all of our podcast episodes, we try to give paralegals an actionable strategy that they can take away from the show because we know your time is valuable.
In this podcast episode, Ann suggests reading Dan’s book, The Lunch. You can get a copy here.
Only $7.99 on Amazon If you are a new (or fairly new) litigation paralegal, reserve your seat in the free masterclass that Ann will be holding this month. https://paralegal-bootcamp.com/masterclass
For more resources visit our blog and podcast page.
In this solo episode of the Paralegals on Fire! Podcast Show, Ann Pearson discusses not only how to prepare for you performance review or evaluation but how to change your mindset to make it a career development opportunity.
Show Highlights
- What important information you should keep on file all year to prepare
- How to accept constructive criticism without becoming defensive
- Why self evaluation, and asking for feedback on a regular basis are important factors in your career development
In all of our podcast episodes, we try to give paralegals an actionable strategy that they can take away from the show because we know your time is valuable.
- Call this a career development opportunity. Even if your employer still calls it a performance evaluation in your mind, let’s call it a career development opportunity.
Link to Podcast Episode 1 – Why you need a Career Development Plan – go listen
- The way to be prepared for the meeting is actually starting to prepare for next year’s performance review right after your last meeting.
In this podcast episode, Ann Pearson discussed giving you a template to help you get started. Get a copy of the Paralegal Career Development Plan that you can use to start planning your career path.
For additional resources visit our blog and podcast page
Casey Flaherty is our guest on this episode of Paralegals on Fire! Podcast show. Casey is a lawyer who is more of a “lawyer innovator.” For years, he’s been trying to bring innovation into an industry that’s not really known for being ahead of its time.
Casey started his career as a litigator at a big law firm, and then went in-house to Kia motors. And it was that work that led him to develop the legal technology assessment tool. The LTA helps legal professionals identify and address gaps in their basic office technologies, gaps that most people don’t even know they have until they take the assessment.
Recently, he left baker McKenzie’s project management team (Casey is also a Lean Six Sigma Black Belt) to be a co-founder of Lex Fusion, where they are accelerating the legal industry’s adoption of technology and innovation.
Show Highlights
- How to leverage your expertise through process and technology
- Most legal professionals don’t utilize the full capabilities of Microsoft Word, Excel, and Adobe
- Why paralegal schools and law schools should consider adding more technology courses
- What happens when you work for the old-school attorney who wants everything in paper
Get access to the Legal Technology Assessment Tool that Casey and Ann talked about so that you can be at the top of your technology skills.
The 3-Step Plan helps you get up to speed fast when you’re taking over new cases (and for new litigation paralegals who want to proactively manage their cases from the start). You can download it here.
For additional resources, please visit our podcast page and blog.
In this solo episode of the Paralegals on Fire! Podcast Show, Ann Pearson talks about the struggle that some new paralegals have making ends meet for those first few years on the job. Instead of putting thousands of miles on your car driving for Uber, why not use your paralegal skills to generate some extra cash from the comfort of your couch?!
Even experienced paralegals will find these paralegal side gigs interesting if you’re looking for ways to stash some extra cash into your retirement fund or pay for your next vacation!
Show Highlights
- Thanks to online businesses and remote work – you no longer have to show up to a 2nd job to make some extra cash
- Use your paralegal skills to make some extra cash
- Unlike other industries, paralegals have to be careful to make sure there’s not a conflict of interest
- Five ways to make money with paralegal side gigs
Your actionable strategies:
Get paid to write blog articles about interesting paralegal topics and tips.
Get information about The Paralegal Boot Camp’s Affiliate Program.
Get information about creating your own courses with our Course Creator Boot Camp that launches in 2022.
Learn about how YouTube creators earn money.
The 3-Step Plan helps you get up to speed fast when you’re taking over new cases (and for new litigation paralegals who want to proactively manage their cases from the start). You can download it here.
For additional resources, please visit our podcast page and blog.
In this Q & A style episode of the Paralegals on Fire! Podcast Show, Ann answers some burning questions from listeners on the topic of litigation.
Show Highlights
- Transferring to another state and how it differs from litigation in your current state
- What to do when you’re new to the firm and you have to get up to speed fast on cases
- How to best spend your time learning new litigation software when you are a new litigation paralegal
- How to prepare for a pretrial conference when you’ve never actually attended one
In this podcast episode, Ann discussed a free PDF: The 3-Step Plan helps you get up to speed fast when you’re taking over new cases (and for new litigation paralegals who want to proactively manage their cases from the start). You can download it here.
Don’t forget to send us your questions for next month’s Q &A: Paralegal Job Search Questions!
For additional resources, please visit our podcast page and blog.
In this guest episode of the Paralegals on Fire! Podcast Show, Ann Pearson talks with Molly McGrath of Hiring and Empowering Solutions about hiring and retention trends in the legal industry. Don’t miss Molly’s “blunt compassionate” style of straight talk because she sees both sides. As a paralegal, attorney, or manager – have you really listened to the other side?
Molly gives us her insight into the hot practice areas, but more importantly, she talks to us about how to reevaluate your soft skills and what kind of lifestyle and work/life balance you want.
Show Highlights
- How courageous conversations can excel a paralegal career
- The importance of the good ol’ fashioned cover letter
- The MOST sought-after practice area specialties for paralegals now
- Do you know what your “why” is?
- What red flags to look for when working with a recruiter
In this podcast episode, Ann Pearson wants you to check out some of the articles, podcasts, books, and blogs mentioned in the episode. If you would like to connect with Molly McGrath you can do that here.
The podcast episode “Why Employees Don’t Want Your Lousy Law Firm Job” is here.
The books mentioned in this episode (Don’t Be a Yes Chick, The 66-Day Law Firm Turnaround, and Intrapreneurs in an Entrepreneur’s World) can be found here.
Molly’s Blog and other resources from Hiring and Empowering Solutions can be found here.
Head over to the podcast page for more info.
In this solo episode of the Paralegals on Fire! Podcast Show, Ann Pearson talks about the struggle that some new paralegals feel, like “my school didn’t prepare me for this” and “maybe I’m just not cut out for being a paralegal!”
Instead, what if you’re just in the wrong practice area? Or working for the wrong attorney?
Don’t give up on being a paralegal! It can be such a rewarding career for you if you choose the path that’s best for YOU.
Show Highlights
- Some days you might be doing boring work – but that doesn’t mean it’s boring to be a paralegal.
- It’s going to be harder to land that first paralegal position than they tell you.
- You are not learning the paralegal SKILLS to be successful, you are learning the FOUNDATION to build upon.
3-Step Roadmap for Litigation Paralegals: https://paralegal-bootcamp.com/3Steps
Paralegal courses to fast-track your career: https://paralegal-bootcamp.thinkific.com
Paralegal Resources: https://paralegal-bootcamp.com/paralegal-blog
Please visit our podcast for your actionable strategies.
In this solo episode of the Paralegals on Fire! Podcast Show, Ann Pearson talks about how one email of appreciation and an anonymous donation inspired her to pay it forward to other paralegals. Ann hopes that others will consider paying it forward to other paralegals. Listen to the show to hear some ideas on how you can pay it forward.
Show Highlights
-
- How one small act of kindness from one paralegal is motivating others to act
- The many ways you can pay it forward and lift up your fellow paralegals
- Let’s start a movement! #paralegalspayingitforwardtoparalegals
Visit our podcast page or sign-up here for the donated Paralegal Bootcamp course or to win the monthly coaching call with Ann.
In this solo episode of the Paralegals on Fire! Podcast Show, Ann Pearson takes a deep dive into what it means to have career security and some methods paralegals can look at to achieve that.
Show Highlights
- Why your career security is just as important as (or maybe even more than!) your job security
- Additional professional certifications that can increase your career security
- Combining your paralegal skills with an area that you enjoy working in
Head over to our podcast page for additional resources and a free download of our sample Career Development Plan
In this Q and A style episode of the Paralegals on Fire! Podcast Show, Ann answers some burning questions from listeners on the topic of billable hours.
Show Highlights
- Are you ghosting your billable hours?
- 5 questions you can ask yourself to determine whether your work is billable.
- How to increase your billable hours by 10% in one easy step.
- How to use our free billable hour calculator tool to meet your goals.
The Billable Hour Boot Camp course.
Paralegal Blog for more resources: https://paralegal-bootcamp.com/paralegal-blog
The Billable Hour Calculator: https://paralegal-bootcamp.com/billable-hour-calculator/
Head over to our podcast page to get your actionable strategies mentioned in the podcast episode.
In this solo episode of the Paralegals on Fire! Podcast Show, Ann gets candid with some examples from her own paralegal career and what it takes to become a mindreading paralegal.
Show Highlights
- Wouldn’t it be great if you could read your attorney’s mind?
- 3 key behaviors you need in order to be a proactive “mind-reading” paralegal.
- What does a workaround look like in the paralegal profession?
Head over to our podcast page to get this week's actionable strategies and to watch a free webinar replay of our 7 Habits of the Indispensable Paralegal.
In this solo episode of the Paralegals on Fire! Podcast Show, Ann Pearson discusses paralegal salaries and sheds light on why it is time to increase paralegal salaries. Don’t miss this frank discussion with actions and strategies all paralegals can use to make more money.
Show Highlights
- How much you want to make is the answer when a recruiter asks how much you’re currently making
- Why you shouldn’t be leaving your current job for a small salary increase
- What steps you can take to help the entire paralegal profession raise salaries across the board
Are you a paralegal wanting to cut out the learning curve and kickstart your paralegal career?
The Paralegal Boot Camp offers online courses to fast-track your paralegal career. View our course offerings.
https://paralegal-bootcamp.thinkific.com.
In this solo episode of the Paralegals on Fire! Podcast Show, Ann Pearson discusses why it is important for every paralegal to have a career development plan, regardless of their experience level or the number of years in the legal industry.
For additional information and to download the sample career development plan, please head over to our podcast episode page.
For additional career development resources, visit our blog at https://paralegal-bootcamp.com/paralegal-blog.
Paralegal Boot Camp courses: https://paralegal-bootcamp.thinkific.com
The Paralegals on Fire podcast show is hosted by Ann Pearson, former paralegal and paralegal manager, turned entrepreneur. Join us each week to get actionable strategies to fast-track your paralegal career. We're going to do that with informative interviews, behind the curtain tips from management, and solo episodes where we take deep dives into areas that matter most to paralegals. Our mission is to give you tangible things that you can walk away with each week that add value to your paralegal career.