Boosting the skills of in-house lawyers (Philip Morris Asia)

Here is an example, from a legal group in Altria, of raising the capabilities of lawyers (CounseltoCounsel, May 2005 at pg. 11). First, the group developed a skills and competency profile for each lawyer position. The profile captured the needed skills in four categories and ranked the competency level the incumbent needed in each for the position.

Second, every lawyer assessed him- or herself. Third, the department’s leaders identified where the team and individuals needed to improve. Next, the leadership developed a plan to fill the skill gaps using internal coaches, external training, and other on-the-job, cross-functional opportunities.” Lastly, Altria’s Asian law department incorporated the skills steps into each lawyer’s development program.