Featured Lawyer: Tessa Mlsna
Tessa Mlsna
Associate
Littler Mendelson
What is your area of practice?
I represent and counsel companies on a variety of labor and employment matters, including discrimination, retaliation, and whistleblower disputes, and traditional labor matters.
How did you do it?
Well, I am not sure I’ve done “it” yet, but I am certainly working towards it everyday!
It sounds corny, but the old adage is true: there is no substitute for hard work. Whether it be a late night at the office, persistent networking, or making myself work out so that my mind is sharp, each step towards “it” takes hard work.
The practice of law is a multi-generational profession which requires young, diverse attorneys to understand a variety communication styles and work habits of those they work with. As a young, Native American female attorney, my perspective and communication style sometimes differs from some of the attorneys that I work with, but that only creates an opportunity to develop. It takes some savvy and hard work to learn and understand the communication styles and expectations of the attorneys you work with, but doing so shows you recognize your role and how you contribute to a team.
As a relatively young attorney in the early stage of my professional journey, it is important for me to recognize and be confident in my strengths, but also to be mindful of areas for growth so I am continually learning as I move forward. I do not need to know all of the answers right now, but I must be confident in my abilities to find solutions. Admittedly, I am constantly working on this one!
Finally, I am a strong believer in developing genuine relationships rather than simply “networking.” I enjoy the part of my job that entails meeting and interacting with people and creating true connections. Meeting new people is an opportunity for me to learn and gain new perspectives. Participating in organizations like Twin Cities Diversity in Practice and the Minnesota American Indian Bar Association has enabled me to meet numerous people that I might not have known otherwise. I enjoy and look for opportunities to both create and cultivate those connections into relationships. The relationships I have developed over the years have created job opportunities, friendships, and new perspectives for me which I truly appreciate.
What do you do outside of the law?
I enjoy spending my free-time with my husband and our “dog-child” Kirby. We recently bought our first home, so I am learning to enjoy DIY projects and yard-work. Also, I love the Minnesota Vikings and Wisconsin Badgers, so most recently my weekends are filled with football!
Who were the people critical to your success and who do you want to thank?
First and foremost, I need to thank my husband Matt. He is my partner and best friend, and I would not be where I am today without his daily support.
I would be remiss if I did not also thank my parents for raising me to be a strong, driven woman. I also appreciate my sisters for challenging me to be my best self and calling me out on when I can do better.
Twin Cities Diversity in Practice, and specifically Val Jensen, for all it does for the legal community.
Finally, I would like to thank my colleagues at Littler Mendelson, who I learn from every day.