The Authentic Lawyer
It turns out that one of the most powerful tools in a lawyer’s business development kit isn’t found in a networking script—it’s you. The real you. You are your product. You are your brand. You are the professional reputation the client trusts with their own.
The modern legal client doesn’t just want a smart lawyer—they want a human one. Someone who understands their world, connects with them on a real level, and who actually gives a crap.
What if being yourself—quirks, values, Netflix references and all—was actually your biggest professional asset?
Spoiler alert: It is.
Know Thyself - so said Ted Lasso!
Self-awareness is the foundation of authenticity. When you know what makes you tick, what lights you up (and what makes you want to throw your laptop out the window), you can make choices that energise rather than drain you. This clarity guides how you connect, build, and grow your practice.
IF WE DON’T KNOW, WE CAN’T GROW! (Yes, I went there.)
Your Values = Your Superpower
If you don’t believe in the work you’re doing, why on earth would your client? Aligning your business development with your core values doesn’t just feel better—it works better. It attracts the kind of clients you actually want to work with. You know, the ones who don’t make you regret your life choices on a Monday morning.
First job - take a moment and work out what your values are!
Networking has a bad rep. It conjures up images of awkward canapés and conversations. But here’s the thing: business development isn’t about the sale. (Or it would be called Sales!) It’s about the connection. So ditch the elevator pitch and just talk to people like, well, people.
Pro Tip: Know your client. They’re not all the same (shocking, I know).
Want to build your practice with personality?
Content Marketing: If you like writing or talking (and let’s be real, most lawyers do), this is your stage. Share your thoughts, your take on industry trends, or even your legal hot takes—people do read them.
Network Without the Nausea: Hate forced mingling? Find your people at events that align with your interests.
Find Your Niche: You can’t be everything to everyone—and no one believes you anyway. Focus on the areas of law that truly interest you. Passion is magnetic.
Serve, Don’t Sell: The best client relationships aren’t built on sales pitches. They’re built on listening, understanding, and actually giving a crap.
Authentic business development isn’t just about the bottom line. Build a career that feels good, fits you, and doesn’t suck the life out of your soul.
Happy Clients Come Back: They tell their friends. You don’t have to chase them with awkward follow-ups.
Personal Fulfilment: You get to do work that aligns with your values and lights you up. Imagine!
Growth That Feels Right: You keep learning, evolving, and becoming the best version of your legal self—without losing who you are in the process.
Authenticity can be strategic. It helps you stand out in a crowded market, connect with the right clients, and build a career that’s both successful and sustainable. Bring your whole self to work. The world doesn’t need more cookie-cutter lawyers. It needs you, just as you are.