5 Tips for success in a small firm
If you listened to our recent podcast episode, you know that we think small law firms are a great place to start your legal career. Here are our 5 tips to set yourself up for success at a small law firm.
Ask Questions
When you are working at a small firm, you will have the opportunity to hit the ground running and start working on matters from day one. This can be overwhelming, but you can use this opportunity to ask good questions to start understanding the ins and outs of your practice area.
Listen
The members of your small firm want you to succeed because your success translates into success for the firm as a whole. Every member of your firm has something different to offer you. The senior attorneys will have practice advice and will help you learn and grow as an attorney. Maybe one of these relationships will grow into a mentorship. Support staff also have a lot to share, especially if you have never worked in a law firm environment before. They know the day-to-day workings of a law firm and can offer great help with the practical side of everything from how the firm calendar can be best utilized, how to use the systems in the office, and efficiency tips.
Grow Your Network
One of the perks of small firms is that you often have a bit more flexibility with your schedule. Use that time wisely by investing your time to organizations and groups that will help you grow your professional network. A professional network is key to growing your client base.
Attend Quality CLE
Continuing legal education credits are required by most states. Attending CLE in person allows you to meet and network with other legal professionals in your practice area. Choose CLE that will help you become an expert in your practice area. While you are there, speak to the presenters and other attendees and ask good questions.
Join Your State and Local Bar Associations
Your state and local bar associations offer tremendous benefits as part of your membership including continuing education credits and networking opportunities. There are committees and practice groups to help you become a leader in your field.
Check out this post for more on all the benefits bar associations have to offer.
Small firms are a great place to start and build your legal career. Be intentional and capitalize on all the opportunities small firm life has to offer.
Photo by Bench Accounting on Unsplash
We make absolutely no guarantee, expressed or implied, that by following the advice you will make any money or improve current profit, as there are several factors and variables that come into play regarding any given business or career. Primarily, results will depend on the business model, the conditions of the marketplace, the experience of the individual, and situations and elements that are beyond your control. As with any business endeavor, you assume all risk related to investment and money based on your own discretion and at your own potential expense.
Nothing contained within this podcast is intended or should be construed to be legal advice and does not create any attorney client relationship. No material on this site, social media, or in the podcast is intended to be a substitute for professional medical and/or mental health advise, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advise your physician or other qualified provider with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition or treatment and before undertaking a new health care regimen. Never disregard professional medical advice or delay in seeking it because of something you have read on this website.