In-House Counsel

Random Acts Of Leadership -- In-House Edition

Even small actions can generate momentum that can lead to bigger changes.

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intensity Business Strengths, strong power to get job done and success, career challenge or winning skill with strong leadership concept, strong businessman hero show his strength by easy lifting heavy weight.I am a true believer that anyone can exhibit leadership — regardless of their role or station in life. You don’t need a title or “official” power to exemplify leadership. I especially think so if you are in-house counsel — and not just in the legal department.

Even if you’re not convinced, here is a short tangible list, in no particular order, of how you can be a leader at your workplace, and be the change you wish to see.

Take The Time To See People

What I mean by this is to look people in the eye as you see pass by or enter the elevator, smile and say hi, if you don’t know them — or if you do know them, tell them it’s great to see them — and mean it. Let your smile reach your eyes, even if you are walking quickly to wherever you need to go. This includes the security guard, the cleaning staff, the person serving you food — every single person. You will be amazed at how you feel from the responses you get.

Normalize Taking Time Off

Take your PTO, and when you post your away message, make it clear that you are taking time off for your family or your health or just for you — and encourage others to do it too (yes, in your actual message). All of us are responsible for creating the culture we want at work — so take the time to be intentional. Help make it acceptable to have a life outside of work and to exercise self-care and self-compassion.

If You Have Capacity, Raise Your Hand And Step Up To Volunteer For Something No One Else Wants To Do

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Be mindful of your capacity — but every once in a while, be a team player and volunteer to be the captain of the blood drive, organize the pro bono effort, or coordinate the legal interns. Yes, it may be extra work and sometimes thankless. At the same time, if it fills your soul, this is especially a no-brainer. Showing up, regardless of whether it serves you, can inspire others to do the same. Generosity begets generosity.

Speak Up And Show Up For Diversity, Equity, And Inclusion

If you have employee resource groups or affinity groups at your company, take the time to join them, even if you are not of that particular group — and be a visible ally. This means showing up at the events and supporting their efforts. It can be scary to be the only — but the experience can help you increase your empathy. Keep diversity in mind as you plan panels and conferences and create working teams.

Be Curious

Resist being on autopilot, try to be present in meetings and interactions, and allow yourself to wonder why. Ask questions to understand before sharing an opinion, especially if no one asked you for your opinion. Ask questions to get to know people, beyond their roles.

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Meyling Mey Ly OrtizMeyling “Mey” Ly Ortiz is in-house at Toyota Motor North America. Her passions include mentoring, championing belonging, and a personal blog: TheMeybe.com. At home, you can find her doing her best to be a “fun” mom to a toddler and preschooler and chasing her best self on her Peloton. You can follow her on LinkedIn (https://www.linkedin.com/in/meybe/). And you knew this was coming: her opinions are hers alone.

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