In this episode, Ann Pearson tackles one of the most common and most discouraging experiences for new paralegals: being thrown into the role with little to no onboarding. Ann calls it the "sink or swim" training model, and she reassures listeners that feeling lost or unprepared isn't a reflection of their ability.

Instead of waiting for a better onboarding system, she introduces her FAST Learning Method: a four-step framework designed to help new paralegals self-onboard quickly, confidently, and strategically.

This episode also ties directly into the free Paralegal Survival Toolkit, which includes worksheets and templates for implementing the FAST method.

Key Takeaways:

The lack of onboarding is a system problem, not a you problem: Most new paralegals are thrown into the role without training. Feeling unprepared is normal, widespread, and solvable.

Ann's FAST Learning Method accelerates your learning curve: Familiarize: Get a high-level understanding of people, systems, preferences, and workflows before you dive in. Ask Early: Prevent mistakes by asking clarifying questions at the start of every project. Shadow Smartly: Observe not just what experienced paralegals do, but why they do it. Track the Wins: Build confidence by documenting your daily progress and learning.

Experienced paralegals ask more questions, not fewer: Asking early, targeted questions shows initiative and prevents rework, misunderstandings, and wasted time.

Self-onboarding is possible with the right framework: Even without a structured training program, new paralegals can quickly gain clarity, competence, and confidence using FAST.

Download the free Paralegal Survival Toolkit: This episode's tools, including checklists, templates, and prompts, are available at ParalegalToolkit.com and pair with this and upcoming episodes.

You are not behind, you're just new. Mastery takes time, and progress compounds quickly when you organize your learning and acknowledge your growth.

For all of our paralegal podcast episodes: https://paralegal-bootcamp.com/