Announcing the release of our groundbreaking white paper for the legal industry, “Metaskills for the Future-Ready Team”

Since the skills needed for professional success today are different than they were in the past, attracting, retaining and developing talent has evolved. Recognizing this shift, especially with new tools and technology available today, ProSearch, the Cowen Group and a team of professionals from leading Fortune 500 corporations came together to produce a guide for the legal industry to prepare the future-ready team. We’re thrilled to be announcing its release today.

As businesses face rapid technological advancements and shifts from the pandemic, there’s a growing emphasis on developing metaskills to keep pace with future demands. According to reports by the World Economic Forum and McKinsey, crucial skills include creative thinking, adaptability, and technological literacy. McKinsey has coined these skills as DELTAs (Distinct Elements of Talent), which blend skills and attitudes across cognitive, digital, interpersonal, and self-leadership categories. Our working group pinpointed ten essential metaskills that we discuss in-depth in the white paper: data literacy, adaptability, critical thinking, emotional intelligence, creative thinking, teamwork, leadership, cultural intelligence, self-management, and lifelong learning.

Data and digital literacy top this list because the ability to interpret and use data effectively is crucial in today’s tech-driven world. Teams equipped with these skills can leverage data to make informed decisions and innovate. Adaptability and flexibility are equally important, helping professionals thrive amid constant change.

Critical thinking and problem-solving also stand out, allowing teams to analyze complex situations and develop effective solutions. Emotional intelligence, another key skill, helps individuals manage emotions, foster empathy, and maintain positive relationships. This is particularly valuable in high-pressure environments like legal operations, where managing client relationships and team dynamics is essential. Creative thinking supports innovation by encouraging fresh ideas and unconventional approaches, which is critical as teams integrate technologies like AI.

Collaboration and teamwork, vital in cross-functional industries like law, foster a cooperative environment where professionals can tackle complex challenges together. Effective leaders blend inspiration and strategy, driving their teams through technological changes and ensuring alignment with organizational goals. Cultural intelligence is essential in global teams, allowing professionals to navigate multicultural environments and meet diverse client needs. Self-management and grit ensure professionals stay focused, accountable, and resilient in the face of challenges, while lifelong learning encourages continuous adaptation to new information and trends.

Metaskills for the Future-Ready Team was developed by a working group of business-of-law professionals in eDiscovery legal operations, information governance, and beyond from leading Fortune 500 corporations. As with all working groups hosted by the Cowen Group, this group collaborated under the Chatham House Rules to encourage inclusive and open dialogue, resulting in a deeply thoughtful and thorough discussion and producing a comprehensive research paper on the topic.

Download the white paper now to learn how to build effective, “future-ready” teams within your organization.