Swan Legal Search

Potential clients know that you’re smart.  You’re a lawyer – you have to be smart!   In order to make a potential client into a client, they need to know that you can offer more.  Most notably, they need to trust you.  Unfortunately, most people are a little intimidated and leery of lawyers.  There’s not a lot of trust at the start.  So, how do you build trust as an attorney?   More than anything, a trusting relationship takes time.  However, there are a few things that may help you establish trust (and hopefully gain a client) in the meantime.

1.       Listen to the client.  This is, without a doubt, the most important thing you can do in order to earn someone’s trust.  You need to know their concerns and understand where they’re coming from.  You can’t just spout off about your accomplishments. You need to be able to listen to their issues and offer solutions.  A potential client wants to know that you can help solve their problems.  This is your chance to show them that you can help them in exactly the ways that they need help.

2.       Do what you say and say what you do.  A trusting relationship is built upon honesty.  Therefore, you need to be very transparent with everything you do.  Tell your client what you are going to do to help solve the issue, then do it.  If you plan a conference call or a meeting – show up promptly.  Do not hide things or try to fool the client into believing something that isn’t true.  Be open and honest in all of your dealings.

3.       Prove your expertise.  Most people automatically have trust in someone that they consider to be an “expert.”  The definition of that word certainly varies, but you get the idea.  Prove your expertise to your client.  Have you been published?  Have you been interviewed?  You don’t necessarily have to show these articles/clips to the client, but you should mention them.  Have you handled a matter exactly like the one with which they need help?  People want to know that you know what you’re doing.

Need more ideas?  Contact us!  We’re attorneys helping attorneys, and we’ve been ready to assist lawyers for more than 15 years.

You’ve been at a firm for 5 years, 10 years, 20 years.  Things seem to be moving along just fine.  You’ve got a decent office, a secretary, a paralegal and an associate or two.  Think you’re irreplaceable in the firm?  Can someone else do your job and cost the firm less?  Do you generate business for the firm?

The truth can be scary.  With the legal industry implementing hiring freezes and thousands of layoffs, there is certainly some concern about the future of legal careers.  Many people in your position have been laid off and are looking for new work.  How can you make sure you’re not one of them?  Building your resume, generating business and proving your worth are the things every lawyer must do to ensure employment.

Building your resume

We’ve talked about this in previous posts, but it’s very important for all lawyers – regardless of the experience level.  And, consider this:  Building your resume increases the firm’s resume.  What partner wouldn’t want to say they hired the “West Coast’s leading expert on _______”?  At the point you become known within the legal community, your talent and expertise becomes a selling point for the firm.

Tooting your own horn

This can be tough for attorneys.  Typically, we’re not sales people at heart; and it’s very difficult for most people to brag.  However, when you’re in a competitive work environment, bragging can mean survival.  Make sure that your clients, your co-workers and the firm’s marketing department know about your successes.  If you’re chosen for an award or if you write an article, make sure to include this on your resume and ask the marketing department to write a quick press release.

Don’t forget to share your trial victories and speeches with your LinkedIn connections, as well.  Everyone wants to be associated with a “winner.”  The more you let people know about your successes, the more success you’ll have.

Generating business

Obviously, this is one of the most important skills any attorney can learn.   An attorney who aggressively works to bring new clients to the firm is someone who simply cannot be replaced.  These “rainmakers” are the most vital part of any firm.  They are the people who “keep the lights on” and no equity partner wants to disrupt that type of success.

The days of simply showing up at work and putting in your time is no longer the key to longevity.  You have to go the extra mile to make sure that you are irreplaceable in the firm.

Questions about how you can become irreplaceable?  Don’t hesitate to contact us!

Building a book of business and generating revenue for the firm is incredibly important to you as a lawyer.  No matter what your experience level, no matter what your practice area, no matter where you are located –  it’s crucial.   So now that we’ve gotten the obvious out of the way, what about the not-so-obvious:  how do you build a book of business?  Generating revenue is not easy, but it’s possible with a lot of tenacity and patience.

Associate tips

If you have less than 10 or 12 years of experience, building a book of business may be a little tougher; but, time is on your side.  Many firms don’t expect you to have a large book at this point in the game.  (All the better for you when you surprise them with client relationships you cultivated!)

Network, network, network

The three most dreaded, but most important, words for any attorney.  If you want business, you have to get out there and meet people.  No matter what type of law you practice, you need to make connections with people in order to start generating revenue.  Each time you leave the office is an opportunity to meet a potential client.  Work on your elevator pitch, hand out business cards and attend social functions as often as you can.  The more people you meet, the more chances you have to start building a book.  It’s a numbers game, and you’ve got to play!

Build relationships with current clients

Repeat clients are the cornerstone for nearly every type of business, and the law is no exception.  If you are working closely with a client now, start building a relationship with that person.  In a few years, he/she may need your services again, and you’ll be the person to get the call.  Remember, clients are in business with attorneys, not with a law firm.  They want someone at the firm who understands their case and knows them as a person.

Work in conjunction with senior attorneys

Nothing beats having a mentor.  Many of the senior attorneys in your firm will have experience bringing new cases.  Ask them questions and go with them to client lunches.  Learn from someone who has already figured out the best way to get new clients and generate revenue.  No need to reinvent the wheel!

Partner tips

As a partner, you know the importance of generating revenue at the firm.  You’ve probably already followed the advice given to the associates, above.  However, you may not know how to build your book from here.  Maybe you’ve hit a wall or need some inspiration about new ways to get clients.   As always, we’re here to help!

Be responsive

Nothing is more annoying than calling an attorney and getting voice mail.  Be available to answer phone calls and emails.  Timeliness of your responses will be one of the major things that sets you apart from another lawyer.  Believe me when I tell you – if you don’t answer the phone another attorney will.   Make a goal for yourself:  one hour responses to all emails and 30 minute responses to phone calls.  With Blackberries and iPhones everywhere, this should be no problem.  (And, if you don’t have either a Blackberry or an iPhone, stop reading this, get in your car and go buy one!  They are crucial to your success!)

Reach out to family and friends

You’ve done the work parties, legal events, seminars and conferences.  What else?  Send out an email to your friends and family and let them know that you’re looking for new clients.  Although everyone will know that you’re an attorney, many non-lawyers don’t understand exactly what you do or with whom you work.  If you are specific in your email, you’ll definitely get a response.  The email should read something like this:  Dear ______, I’m working on building my client list, and I’d love for you to keep an eye out for the following type of client.  I currently work in intellectual property.  I’m looking for someone who recently started a business or someone who recently published a book.  If you have any such contacts, I’d be honored if you would send them my way.  I’ll be happy to help them secure a copyright or trademark for the business logo or the book.

Host a seminar

Pick a topic that would be appealing to your ideal client base.  What affects their businesses?  Are there new tax laws or regulations?  Anything in the economy that directly hurts or helps their businesses?  If so, they will definitely be interested in hearing more about this topic.  Learn everything you can and host a seminar.  It can be in the office or in a hotel conference room.  Wherever they can congregate conveniently.  At the end of the seminar, let them know that you are happy to answer any questions about this topic.  Hand out your business card.

Keeping these tips in mind, you will have new clients and a bigger book in no time!  Need even more help?  Feel free to contact us.  We’re attorneys, too!

I know, I know.  Things are moving along.  You go to work every day.  You sit at your desk and pound out motions (or contracts), do some research, eat at your desk, more research, go home, more research, go to bed, repeat.  It’s working for you now, but what about a year from now?  What about 10 years from now?  Do you see yourself at the same firm? A different firm? No firm?

As comfortable (or at least familiar) as your current position is, are you doing what you want to do?  Although things have been tough in the California legal market, we’re on the edge of an increase in hiring.   The California market will undoubtedly see some associate and partner movement in the next 12-18 months; so now is the time to think about your career path and really create your career.   Don’t just let things come to you – put yourself in a position to grow your career over the next one to two years.  With a little thought and planning, you could be at your dream job (whatever that may be) sooner than you think.

Creating and planning your career is simple, but it does take some quiet time and some concentration.  This is not a process you want to rush.   Like all great things in life, start with baby steps.   And, like all great things on the internet – take a quiz.

1. Are you happy with your job?
2. When someone says “next year, you’ll be doing ______” do you shudder in horror at the thought of being in that office in a year?
3. Do you believe you’ll retire from your current job?
4. When someone asks you what your dream job is, would you say “my current job”?

If you answered “no,” “yes,” “no” and “no,” you’ve come to the right place. You’ve got some planning to do.  As always, we want to help all of you – not just the new lawyers or the very experienced.  No matter where you are in your career, you can take charge and turn it into something wonderful.

Attorneys 0-6 years

You’re relatively new to law, and you’ve undoubtedly had a very steep learning curve over the last few years.   If you’re still wondering if your current job is the best job for you, it’s time to start asking some people who have experience.

1. Shadow a senior attorney.  Are you currently working in the practice area you love, and you’re ready to move up the ladder?  Speak with an attorney at your firm and ask to shadow him/her for a day.  Find out what they do, who they speak with, what they know.  Knowing how someone else got to their position and what skills are needed to do their job will give you some good insight on how to plan your next move within the firm.
2. Talk to more experienced attorneys.  Most people really like to talk about their jobs, and they will probably be flattered to be asked about their jobs.  Speak to an attorney who works in the practice area in which you’d like to work.   Talk to the attorneys candidly about what they like and dislike about their jobs.  Ask about the hours required, the type of experience required and so on.  Obviously, once this “informational interview” is over, please send a hand-written thank you note.  It’s only polite.
3. Volunteer.  You are probably very limited on time, but if you’re really interested in another practice area, it may be helpful to get some unpaid experience.  If you’re working and loving it without getting paid, it’s a good sign that you are probably well suited for that type of work.   Plus, you’re gaining valuable experience to add to your resume!

Attorneys 7-12 years

OK.  You’ve been around the block and you know what is what.  You’ve probably already decided whether or not you want to continue practicing within your current practice area.  If so, it’s really time to make a move toward senior associate or partner.  If you’re not practicing in the field in which you’d like to practice – what are you waiting for?  You’ve got to get moving.

1. Show off.  If you like your practice area, now is the time to start making a name for yourself in the firm.  Don’t just come into work each day and do what you need to do.  It’s time to step up and do even more – just make sure you’re getting credit.  As uncomfortable as it is to “toot your own horn,”  get tooting.  It’s time that you’re noticed as someone who wants to stick around and become an integral part of the firm.  You are a valuable contributor and you want to contribute even more.  Let this be known!  Show your face at legal events, start making connections and generating revenue.
2. Network, network, network. Don’t like the firm or the practice area?  Time to put it in gear.  You’ve got to start networking immediately.  Join legal organizations that work in your desired practice area.  Go to meetings and talk to anyone who will lend an ear.  Ask questions, and ask for informational interviews.   You need to find out how this new practice area works and what new information you need to learn in order to be viewed as an asset in that new practice area.
3. Start writing and speaking.  If you know exactly where you want to be, it’s time to get your name out there as an expert in that practice area.  There’s really no better way to do this than by getting your name in front of other attorneys.  Writing articles and giving presentations are two ways that other attorneys will begin to view you as an authority in the field.  With each publication and/or speech you give, you take another step toward becoming an expert.

Attorneys 13+ years

I know what you’re thinking.  No.  It’s not too late to change practice areas, firms or careers!  You’ve got a lot of experience, and that goes far.

1. Generate revenue.  If you’re at your dream firm, but not yet a partner, don’t worry.  Becoming partner is only a solid book of business away.  We know all there is to know about building a book of business.  Follow our advice, and you’ll be on your way to partner status in no time.
2. Talk to your peers.  If you’re thinking about changing practice areas, you need to speak to an attorney in that field.  I know, it’s sometimes hard to speak to someone who has less experience as an attorney; but just do it.  (Nike knows all.)  You can learn something every day, even if you’ve been an attorney forever.  Get curious!  Talk to these attorneys about what they do every day.  Write out the skills you have that may be helpful in this new practice area.  Also list some things that you may need to review or learn.
3. Venture out!  If you like what you’re doing but not where you’re working start looking elsewhere. If you’ve got a book of business, you’ll be very interesting to other firms.  If you’re tired of the old grind and want to get out on your own, do it!  It’s scary, but you’ve got the experience you need with at least 13 years under your belt.  Think about what lifestyle you want and how moving firms or starting your own will help.

No matter where you’re at on the career ladder, take some time in the next couple of weeks to think about where you want to be and how you’re going to get there.  Write plenty of lists – lifestyle, income required, type of firm, etc. – and let them “marinate.”  In no time, you’ll know exactly where you’re going!  (And, if you still need a little help figuring that out, contact us!)

From recent grad to senior partner, we’ve got tips to improve your resume

How are things?  Anything new on the career front?  Are you feeling content, or unchallenged?  If you’re looking for your first legal position, if you’re coming back from an absence or if you’re feeling that it’s time to move on from your current job but you don’t even know where to begin, you’ve come to the right place.  Building a resume is important at any level in your career.  No matter if you are a recent graduate or a senior partner, a resume can be the difference between getting the job and being stuck on a career path that doesn’t excite you. 

Overall, resumes are probably the most important thing for hiring partners at the beginning of a relationship.  After all, resumes are the first impression that any hiring partner has of you.  Please, please make sure that it’s spell-checked and accurate.  Also, even though you’re an attorney and not a graphic designer, you will want to make sure that the format is appealing and easy to read.  (Don’t worry about this one – we’ll give you a few pointers.)  

Tips for all attorneys

1. Spell check.  Seriously.  Do it at least twice, read it three times and let someone else read it at least once.  (Having two additional readers is preferable.)
2. Leave them wanting more.  It’s obvious that you’ll want to include relevant work experience.  However, you don’t have to include details about every motion you’ve ever written or every case you’ve ever tried.  Show a little restraint and leave something for the interview.
3. Format with clarity in mind.  Make sure that the format for your resume is clear.  Stick with one font (two if you must, but that’s it).  Stick with only two font sizes – one for headings and one for everything else.  Make sure that all of your contact information is clear on EACH page of the resume.  Heaven forbid someone would lose the first page, you want to make sure they can still contact you.
4. Personalize the content.  If you know that the hiring partner is looking for someone who has appellate experience, make sure that you elaborate on your years of appellate work.  To save space, maybe eliminate the six-month stint doing family law.  Did the hiring partner go to the same undergrad as you?  I’d highlight your undergrad a little more than normal.

Tips for new attorneys (0-5 years of experience)

1. Mention everything that’s important.  It’s critical to highlight experience you had in law school or during internships.  If you were on the winning trial ad team or editor of the law review, go ahead and mention these accomplishments.  You’ll also want to delve into your experience as an attorney (if any), but relevant experience before you passed the bar is OK, as well.
2. Show off your skills.  Make sure that you highlight any special skills or knowledge you may have to set you apart.  Do you have three years of Westlaw research experience?  Can you speak Japanese?  Obviously, Westlaw experience is crucial.  Many firms love foreign language proficiency – particularly in international firms.

Tips for senior associates (6-12 years)

1. Put your work on top! You’ve been practicing law for awhile, so it’s fine to put your education toward the bottom of the resume.  Hiring partners are more interested in your recent work experience than your undergrad and law school.  It’s still important, but it’s not top-of-the-resume important.
2. List practice areas.  Make sure that you indicate the types of practice areas in which you have experience.  (Keep in mind that you’ll want to emphasize the work most related to this particular job.)  For example, if you’ve gained experience in antitrust, labor and employment, M&A, private equity deals, so state.
3. Describe your clients.  Make sure that the hiring partner understands the type of clients with which you have worked in the past.   Were they fortune 500 companies or family-owned businesses? Also note, if relevant, what the industry is, i.e., health care, technology, etc.  Describe these clients with some specificity, and be sure to point out the clients that may have some relevance to this job opening.
4. List your real world experience.  Here’s where you get to brag about what you’ve accomplished.   Note if you’ve taken and defended depositions, drafted and argued, any trials that you’ve worked on, second-chair experience, etc.  On the transactional side, note if you’ve handled due diligence, handled securities or M&A work, etc.
5. Incorporate a list of speaking and writing accomplishments.  Be sure to include list of public speaking you’ve done on your practice area or publications you’ve written about your area of expertise. 
6. Include extracurricular activities.  Make sure that you list all professional associations to which you belong.  Listing other professional or community involvement can be important, as well.

Tips for partners (13+ years)

1. List your managerial and administrative abilities and contributions.  You’re more than just a mere attorney, you’re one of the bosses.  The other bosses want to know how you can perform in that role, as well.
2. Brag about your success.  The firm’s hiring partner will definitely want to know, with some detail, about your client development and your revenue generation abilities.  Be sure to be as thorough as possible here.  This is a very important part of your resume.
3. Attach relevant lists.  If you’re a litigator, attach a list of representative cases you’ve handled.  If you’re on the transactional side of things, be sure to attach a representative corporate transactions list.  
4. Prepare and have a general business plan at the ready.  The attorneys at the firm will want to know how you can help grow the business.  Include a brief business plan for how you will contribute.  (Not sure about this?  Glad you asked.  We’ll be writing a post about this soon.  Check back for details.)

So, go forth and interview!  Did we leave something out?  Please do not hesitate to contact us.  We’re happy to help get your career on the right path!