8 Cardinal Rules of being a Successful Witness in an Employment Case

8 Cardinal Rules of being a Successful Witness in an Employment Case
By Daniel C. Fleming, Esq.

February 17, 2006

1. Rule of Authenticity: You are what you appear to be. You’re good to your word. You’re not putting on an act to please or impress anyone.

2. Rule of Self-Awareness: You are aware of your case’s strengths and weaknesses.

3. Rule of Common Sense: You know when it’s appropriate to agree with the adversary, and when it’s not.

4. Rule of Determination: You are not easily swayed by the adversary, or pushed off center by manipulation, speculation, or scare tactics. You are focused and you are not easily distracted.

5. Rule of Directness: You speak your mind, but only if it’s responsive to a question. You say what you mean and mean what you say in clear and simple language.

6. Rule of Single-Mindedness: You have a clear plan. You are driven by a sense of mission and consistently direct your energy in pursuit of that plan.

7. Rule of Compassion and Empathy: The jury, and even your adversary, can tell you are a nice person and you are likeable. They can see that you are kind, forgiving and generous first toward yourself, which allows you to be kind, forgiving and generous toward others.

8. Rule of Justice for All: You understand and enjoy the fact that your efforts will benefit others and make the world a better place.

Copyright © 2006 Wong Fleming