Unlearning Old Habits: The First Challenge
Transitioning to legal tech from traditional industries is not just a shift in environment—it's a transformation in mindset. Coming from traditional setups, many employees struggle to let go of familiar practices, like relying on face-to-face interactions and paper documents. While technology makes interactions more accessible online, there’s no denying that some conversations are more effective when conducted in person.
At UNAWA, we work fully remotely, which means we need to adapt. For instance, many employees initially found it challenging to transition from physical to electronic documents. But this shift is necessary. Printing documents isn’t just discouraged; it’s something we avoid unless absolutely required. The habit of printing can be unlearned, and soon enough, it feels natural to operate in a fully digital workspace.
The bigger hurdle, however, is emotional. The lack of physical connection requires us to put more effort into understanding one another and building effective team dynamics. This is where open-mindedness becomes key—not just to changes in processes, but also to the fast-paced nature of the legal tech industry.
Thriving Through Adaptability and Team Spirit
The key to making a meaningful impact in legal tech, even without prior experience, is a willingness to embrace change. Personally, I don’t have a tech or legal background. But by keeping an open mind and welcoming the rapid evolution of technology, I’ve been able to thrive. Change is constant in legal tech, and resisting it will only hold you back and you will be left behind by your team and your competitors.
Adaptability isn’t just about personal growth; it’s also about contributing to the team. A team cannot succeed if even one member is left behind. In a remote work setup, teamwork and open communication become non-negotiable. You can’t rely on nonverbal cues to gauge how someone feels or what they think. This means we have to actively build trust and foster a spirit of collaboration.
At UNAWA, we’ve created an environment where everyone is encouraged to step outside their official job descriptions to support one another. We’re a startup, and that means wearing multiple hats is the norm. This also allows us to have a better understanding of what the others are doing. Even if we can’t help them directly, seeing things from a different perspective helps us support one another in other ways. While this can be overwhelming at times, the team’s openness to help and adapt makes all the difference.
For example, our developers often step in to assist colleagues struggling with technical issues, while HR and leadership ensure that everyone stays connected and motivated, and everyone is considered a “sales person” or, at the very least, an advocate for our own products and services to each team member's immediate network. This collaborative mindset ensures that challenges are met head-on and solutions are always within reach.
Building Skills for Success
In legal tech, thriving requires a mix of technical and soft skills. Team spirit, adaptability, and a commitment to lifelong learning are critical. From my HR perspective, I also see the value in challenging what we know. For instance, I make it a point to attend webinars on AI and technology in HR, even though it’s outside the scope of my current role. Doing this broadens my understanding of the advances in technology for HR, what bigger and more established companies are doing, and allows me to provide valuable feedback to the team.
It’s equally important to stay connected. I encourage team members to attend relevant webinars or events and even participate in discussions outside their primary fields. If I come across an article or event that they might be interested in or may be related to their job, I share it with them. The other team members also do the same for me. This kind of cross-functional engagement helps everyone see things from a user’s perspective, ensuring that the technology we develop is practical and intuitive.
Legal tech isn’t just about understanding technology—it’s about understanding people. My background in customer service and leadership development taught me the importance of balancing business objectives with the well-being of the team. Employees should feel valued not only for their contributions but also for their individuality.
Developing strong soft skills, like communication and teamwork, is essential in our remote setup. Knowing whom to approach for help or feedback can make or break a project. And in a fast-paced industry like ours, being proactive in asking for and offering help is key. Asking for help is as valued as offering to help.
To anyone looking to pivot into legal tech, my advice is simple: do your homework. Research the industry, understand the mission and values of the company you’re joining as it is important to have similar personal values with a company in order for you to thrive. Whether you’re in HR, marketing, or software development, aligning your personal values with the company’s vision will set you up for success. Be prepared to adapt.
As we continue to push for innovations like electronic notarization, the need for adaptability grows even stronger. Legal tech is evolving quickly, and staying ahead means being open to change, embracing new technologies, and fostering a culture of collaboration.
In this field, the skills you develop go beyond the technical—they’re about being part of a team, driving innovation, staying connected in a digital world, and knowing your purpose.. And that’s what makes the journey so rewarding.
