The legal department aims to be a strategic partner to the business. It can be difficult, however, to build the culture of trust and collaboration required to become a meaningful partner. To integrate legal effectively into the business units, it is critical that the legal department build relationships with the decision-makers in the business, develop channels of communication and manage company expectations. Below are four strategies that can increase the chances that your legal department will work together effectively with the business units. These insights were drawn from a lively and fruitful discussion on the topic at the Women, Influence and Power in Law conference in Washington, D.C. earlier this year.

  • Build Relationships Within the Business Units

The long-term success of any integration effort will depend on building relationships with the individual decision-makers at each business unit. As a legal partner, your goal is to better understand the needs of your business, its risks, and its operating rhythms. Working side by side with the business unit team will enable you to effectively align your goals with those of your client, to support and advance the business. It will also position you as a trusted member of the team who is invested in their success.