Global Law Firm: Enhancing Professional Behaviors & Communication in Law Summer Associates

We designed and facilitated a drama-based learning experience that put professional behavior under the spotlight.

Why

A leading international law firm seeking an engaging, impactful way to onboard their summer associate class and instill key professional behaviors from day one. They wanted to go beyond traditional training and deliver a session that would spark reflection, build self-awareness, and promote better communication habits — all while aligning with the firm’s culture and expectations.

Our Approach

We designed and facilitated a drama-based learning experience that put professional behaviors under the spotlight. The session featured a live, research-based scenario between two fictional summer associates navigating their first few weeks at the firm.

Through the scene, participants witnessed a range of behaviors that commonly emerge among early-career professionals. The goals of the session were:

To explore what professionalism looks like in 2025 and how that aligns with expectations of the firm

To look at the importance of networking and internal brand building, regardless of your social style

To understand the importance of effective communication in achieving quality outcomes

The drama served as a mirror, helping participants identify potential pitfalls in a non-threatening, highly relatable way. It also set the stage for facilitated reflection and discussion, where associates unpacked what they saw, shared personal insights, and practiced more effective approaches.

Outcomes

Engagement: Summer associates were immediately drawn in by the realism and humor of the scenario, making the learning memorable and personal.

Awareness: Participants gained a clearer understanding of how small behavior choices can impact their professional reputation and team dynamics.

Actionable Tools: Through group dialogue and debrief, associates left with tangible strategies for asking questions, communicating capacity, and prioritizing responsibilities.

Client Feedback

The firm’s Professional Development team noted how the session brought essential but often hard-to-teach behaviors to life. The interactive and immersive nature of the drama created a safe environment for candid conversation and learning.

The program received overwhelmingly positive feedback, with participants praising its fresh and engaging approach. Many highlighted the relatability of the scenarios, the interactive nature of the sessions, and the lasting impact of the discussions.