SuccessTips

Practice Development Quick Reads for June 2019

Essential Lessons on Life and Valuing Your Time


I recently re-read the article written by a survivor of flight 1549 (the one that landed in the Hudson River a decade ago). Gerry McNamara is a partner at a major executive recruiting firm; his piece is compelling and worth reading for its simple artistry alone, but it’s two of the four lessons he learned that reached into my heart, and which I share with you here.  

He, like every other passenger, thought he was going to die. In the days and weeks following the miracle, he wondered why he was spared an early death, and what he could do with this gift. Here’s part of what he learned:

  1. “Cherish your families as never before and go to great lengths to keep your promises.”
  2. “Be thankful and grateful for everything you have and don’t worry about the things you don’t have.”

When we’re caught up in the accelerated rhythm that characterizes our daily work lives, we can go days, weeks, and even months without stopping to appreciate – to actually cherish – our relationships and all the blessings we take for granted.   

And once acclimated to that harried pace, we tend to be less effective in our time- and self-management. We’re not as clear as we could be about saying “No” to unnecessary commitments. We’re not as strong as we should be in requiring that others not waste our time. We make excuses for why we feel pressured so much of the time instead of accepting full responsibility for our choices.

So, try practicing appreciation for your blessings, knowing that life is short, and fragile, and precious. You’ll become a happier person and a better manager of your choices – and thus your time.


Cultivating Internal Referral Sources


You know, on some level, that how you treat colleagues in your firm is a factor in whether they’ll introduce you to their clients when those clients have a need you could address. But if you’re like most attorneys, you’re not as aware of the nuances that influence your colleagues’ decisions as you should be. Read more about what you can do to earn their trust such that you become their go-to person in the firm. 


Three Key Sources of Revenue and Data Leakage in Law Firms


If the processes in your firm are inefficient, you’re likely losing data, and revenue as well. Those losses add up quickly, and it’s worth taking a hard look at where you can tighten things up and use emerging technologies to stem the tide of revenue leakage.   


Ready for Launch: How to Roll Out New Technology in Your Firm


If it’s time to implement new technologies in your firm, there are steps you can take to ensure that your staff can make the necessary transitions smoothly and enthusiastically.


Make Your Firm a Great Place to Work


Though a few years old, this article by lawyer psychologist Larry Richard provides timeless gold on how to make your firm a great place to work – one where people perform to high standards with positive attitudes.


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About the Author

Bill Jawitz, Law Firm Coach and Consultant

Bill Jawitz has been coaching lawyers to become more profitable and enjoy a higher quality of life since 2002.

He can be reached at bill@sucesstrackesq.com or at 203.806.1300.

I maintain a deep library of hundreds of best-of-breed checklists, templates, guides, and white papers on every aspect of managing a legal practice and law firm, from lawyer marketing plans, to hiring process checklists, to alternative fee engagement letters.

If you need a quick resource, call me. I’ll send you what I have on the topic free of charge with no strings.

Call for a free consultation (203) 806-1300

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