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Steps That Allow Camaraderie to Develop - Sept. 21, 2010

By Barbara Haubrich-Hass, ACP/CAS

I have worked for different attorneys over the years. I feel very fortunate that each attorney has something different to add to my experience. What I am most thankful for, however, is that each attorney has understood the importance of developing a level of camaraderie amongst their legal team.

Working in a law firm is a unique experience that requires a thick skin. Let’s face it. It’s not easy! When an attorney leaves for a deposition at 1:30 p.m. and an opposition to a motion with 10 exhibits needs to be organized, tabbed, copied, and filed with the court across town by 3:30 p.m., who does the attorney trust to get it filed timely and done right? Not his partner, but his paralegal.

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There are steps that allow a sense of camaraderie to develop. By the same token, certain actions can impede its development. The bond of comradeship cannot be made with just anyone. Comradeship takes time and commitment by everyone involved in order for it to succeed. A mere working relationship can deepen into a commitment for success, and it can be accomplished by adhering to some of these five principles:

1. Do you remember that line in ‘Remember the Titans’, “Attitude reflects leadership Captain”? Developing camaraderie starts at the top and works its way down the leadership ladder. The attorney ultimately has the authority to lead the team into battle and possesses the responsibility to reflect the attitude of the entire team. If the leader is motivated, the team is motivated. If the leader is excited, the team is excited. If the leader is ambivalent, the team is ambivalent.

2. Work together for a purpose; any purpose, even if it is to figure out how to get your original document “out” of the photocopy machine in one piece. Comradeship goes beyond friendship, and purpose is the primary reason it does. Small accomplishments over time build a solid foundation for any team.

3. Believe in the abilities of your comrade and encourage them to reach their potential. Celebrate accomplishments and pat your comrade on the back when a job is well done. The effects of praise are contagious and helps to develop a sense of unity and well being.

4. Fulfill trust and be honest. If you say you are going to do something, do it. Nothing tears down trust faster than consistent disappointments in not following through with your word.

5. Lastly, make sacrifices for your comrade. That tells your comrade that they are important to you. Little sacrifices can add up to big things.

These are the five principles I've learned in developing camaraderie. Although co-workers come and go in the work environment, a true comrade will be with you for years to come.