Big Law Life

#51: New BigLaw Partners: Business Development Strategies

Dec 18, 2024

New Big Law partners delve into essential strategies for client development. They emphasize creating a strong personal brand to stand out and building visibility within the firm. The discussion highlights the importance of authentic relationships over mere transactions. Listeners learn about cross-marketing tactics and the value of long-term engagement with clients. The insights provided aim to foster a fulfilling career while successfully navigating the competitive legal landscape.

20:30

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Quick takeaways

New Big Law partners should create a concise personal brand to effectively communicate their unique value to potential clients.

Cultivating lasting professional relationships through consistent engagement is essential for effective client development and long-term career satisfaction.

Deep dives

Navigating the Challenges of New Partnerships

Transitioning into a partnership role in a law firm presents unique challenges, particularly in developing a client base. A new partner must not only acquire clients but also demonstrate the ability to originate work, which is essential for career advancement. This responsibility emphasizes the need for strategic planning as well as understanding the business aspects of legal practice, often lacking in traditional law education. Effective client development can lead to greater control over one’s career trajectory, allowing for personalized work structures that align with professional goals.

Cultivating Client Relationships: Strategies for New Partners

19min

Navigating Relationships and Branding in Big Law

2min

In today’s episode, I discuss the practical steps and strategies for new Big Law partners to successfully develop their own clients. From creating a concise and compelling personal brand to cultivating meaningful professional relationships, I share actionable advice for building visibility both inside and outside the firm.

Additionally, I address how to approach cross-marketing opportunities, foster client trust through long-term engagement, and manage outreach efforts strategically. These insights will help you not only grow your practice but also shape a fulfilling and sustainable career in Big Law.

At a Glance:

0:00 Introduction to today’s topic: Developing your own clients as a new partner
1:20 Why client origination matters for control and career satisfaction
3:00 Creating a defined personal brand in 2-3 sentences
6:52 How to expand your brand and convey unique strengths
7:12 Building visibility inside your firm: Tactics for reintroducing yourself
9:10 Success through cross-marketing and collaboration with other practice groups
10:40 The importance of relationships over transactions in client development
13:28 How authentic connections and shared interests strengthen networks
14:13 Finding opportunities outside traditional legal circles
16:16 Managing follow-ups: Frequency, tiers of outreach, and knowing when to scale back
18:15 Why long-term flexibility in relationships matters
19:08 Preview of next episode: Tracking client development progress

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Interested in doing 1-2-1 coaching with Laura Terrell? Or learning more about her work coaching and consulting? - here are ways to reach out to her:

www.lauraterrell.com

laura@lauraterrell.com

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Show notes: https://www.lauraterrell.com/podcast