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In conversation with LawCPD, as points deadline approaches
LawCPD co-founder and director Sarah Mateljan sits down with Jerome Doraisamy to discuss the need to upskill, the compatibility of online learning and much more!
Jerome Doraisamy
Broadly speaking, why is upskilling so essential for lawyers right now as we head towards a post-pandemic market?
Now we are moving into the “new normal”, things are shifting again. Many lawyers are re-evaluating what they want from their work – considering shifting into new areas of practice, moving to new employers, or starting their own practice. All of these changes will require lawyers to build their skills and knowledge to succeed in the post-pandemic market. Even for those staying in their current roles, intentionally upskilling can help to build resilience and confidence in their careers.
Why is online learning so compatible with such upskilling in these turbulent times?
Online learning gives lawyers access to a broader range of topics and speakers than traditional face-to-face events. It can be particularly valuable for lawyers who want to build specific expertise without disruptions to their schedule, or are unable to travel easily. In addition, if lawyers choose self-paced CPD such as the courses we offer, they have complete flexibility to fit their legal education into their busy schedules.
We offer interactive CPD, which is different from a regular webinar or a pre-recorded session. It’s more engaging, and many lawyers find this delivery type to be a much more dynamic way of learning.
Overall, online learning – particularly interactive online learning – provides a more fulfilling learning experience for lawyers juggling multiple responsibilities.
Are there particular options available via LawCPD right now that are especially pertinent for lawyers looking to upskill at this time?
Absolutely! For lawyers who are feeling the pressure of earning their CPD points before the 31 March deadline, we encourage them to check out our best-selling One-Click CPD Compliance Packs. Available in 5 or 10 points, they cover all core CPD competencies and are tailored to various practice areas. A particularly exciting pack for 2022 is our One-Click CPD Compliance for Remote Lawyers, with curated courses to help lawyers better manage the transition to hybrid work models.
What practical steps can be taken to ensure that a lawyer is making the most of online learning at this time?
We always recommend lawyers check if they still need points in any mandatory areas (ethics, skills, practice management, and substantive law) and ensure they know the specific rules for their jurisdiction. Our second piece of advice is to choose courses that genuinely support their career progression. It can be as simple as asking yourself a couple of reflective questions such as “What specific tasks do I find challenging” and “What skill sets can help me manage this task better?”
This way, CPD compliance also becomes a valuable exercise to acquire new skills and practical tools to help lawyers in their everyday practice and career progression.
On a personal level, how can online learning be rewarding and stimulating while adapting to the new normal?
Learning can play a crucial role in building resilience, confidence and a sense of wellbeing. After all, there is plenty of research showing how continuous learning can benefit an individual’s mental wellbeing. It can boost self-esteem and self-efficacy, it contributes to a person’s sense of accomplishment and ultimately helps them to feel empowered. All of this is very important for lawyers when they are being asked to constantly pivot, change plans, and adapt to new circumstances. That sense of feeling “I’ve got this” will be crucial for personal – and professional – success for lawyers moving forward.
Any other relevant comments?
For any lawyer that is still in need of points before the CPD deadline, we want to assure them that there is still time to make your CPD count and have a genuinely fulfilling learning experience!
Jerome Doraisamy
Jerome Doraisamy is the editor of Lawyers Weekly. A former lawyer, he has worked at Momentum Media as a journalist on Lawyers Weekly since February 2018, and has served as editor since March 2022. He is also the host of all five shows under The Lawyers Weekly Podcast Network, and has overseen the brand's audio medium growth from 4,000 downloads per month to over 60,000 downloads per month, making The Lawyers Weekly Show the most popular industry-specific podcast in Australia. Jerome is also the author of The Wellness Doctrines book series, an admitted solicitor in NSW, and a board director of Minds Count.
You can email Jerome at:
