Legal Marketing Secrets

Use Public Speaking to Get More Clients

Use Speaking to Get More Clients

Speaking and making presentations that form memorable experiences, entertain and convey a high impact message can be a very profitable way to grow your business. In fact, public speaking is very comfortable for most lawyers. Like opera singers, many of us love to hear the sound of our voice. Whether it’s summing up to a jury or arguing a case before the Supreme Court, many lawyers are born speakers. Not only will speaking demonstrate your knowledge and expertise, but it will also allow you to develop an emotional bond with your audience. Speaking offers prestige, credibility, visibility, and can be a lot of fun.

Listen to Steve Markman tell you how to do it...Download steve_markman.mp3

Lawyers Need Not Live in Fear

Recently, James Dolan wrote an excellent article in the Texas Lawyer about how lawyers are constantly living in fear.  "Our firm is ruled by fear," said one attorney. "Hell, the whole profession is about fear. Fear of not billing hours, fear of not bringing in business, fear of losing business. Fear of not making partner. Fear of being in trouble with my wife for working too much, and, of course, fear of being in trouble with the partnership for not working enough."

Have you had enough of this type of career. If so, you should check out Monica Parker.  Monica, who graduated cum laude from Harvard College and earned her J.D. from Harvard Law School, is out of the fear business and is now a career coach helping lawyers make the difficult transition from law to something they love. 

Listen to Monica's interview here:  Download monica_parker.mp3

She can be found at:   http://www.leavingthelaw.com/

Law Firms Postponing or Rescinding Offers due to Slow Down

The Wall Street Journal reported today that some firms are rescinding offers made to incoming and summer associates.  The slowing economy is impacting more seasoned lawyers as well and is causing law firms to tighten their belts, close offices and shed unprofitable practice areas and people.  Some of the largest firms that have instituted layoffs include: 
• Cadwalader, Wickersham & Taft
• Clifford Chance
• Thacher Proffitt & Wood
• McKee Nelson
• Mayer Brown
• Winston & Strawn
• Sonnenschein Nath & Rosenthal
• Powell Goldstein

In late 2007, Jenner & Block, a top Chicago law firm ranked 77th among America's 100 top-grossing firms and best known for its trial attorneys, downsized its partnership for the second time in two years.  At least 10 partners were told they will have to give up their equity in the firm, with some being asked to leave.   

The bottom line is that marketing is more important than ever.  The firms that see client dev and retention as a strategic imperative will be the ones that prosper in difficult economic times.