Those were the questions I wrestled with. What I discovered is that the CLM journey wasn’t just about earning a set of letters after my name. It was about becoming a leader in my profession.
Asking the Big Question: Why CLM?
For a long time, I told myself I was “too busy” or “already qualified.” I have an advanced degree and over a decade of experience managing law firms. Did I really need another credential?
But one day, it hit me: While I excelled at keeping the day-to-day operations running smoothly, I wasn’t fully stepping into my potential when it came to shaping broader strategic decisions. I had valuable insights to offer — I just hadn’t been voicing them as strongly or as often as I should.
That’s when I decided to take the leap and begin the journey to CLM.
What the CLM Really Means
The Certified Legal Manager designation offered by ALA is unlike any other credential I have seen. It’s not about checking boxes, it’s about mastering the full spectrum of legal management.
Preparing for the exam required me to dive deep into all areas of legal management: financial forecasting, HR compliance, operations and legal industry trends. It was rigorous, demanding and exactly what I needed.
As I studied, a new confidence emerged. I realized I wasn’t “just” an administrator; I was a strategic leader with the insight and influence to drive decisions rather than merely execute them.
The Growth Along the Way
What surprised me most was that the real value of the CLM wasn’t just in passing the exam. It was in the journey itself.
Every late night of studying, every practice test, every educational session built my knowledge and my confidence. I was learning how to solve complex problems, use data to make decisions and lead with clarity.
Even before I earned the credential, I noticed changes in my daily work. I was contributing more boldly to discussions, and I was guiding decisions with greater confidence.
