In June, I reopened my law firm after a short hiatus. It was a pull-yourself-up-by-your-bootstraps moment. I could choose to be successful. I could choose to work hard. I could choose to make 2017 a fantastic year for my business. I did.
The most important thing I learned in 2017 that helped my business is that having good colleagues is not only important for your business but for your individual self as well.
After returning to my law firm, I reached out to my colleagues and let them know I reopened my firm. I thanked them for their past support. I also asked them for future support. I shared the types of cases I was accepting. I also had a captive audience with which to share how I differed from other firms. One of the largest differences of my firm is that we utilize alternative fee arrangements. This allows me to create various payment options outside of the normal billable hour concept many firms use. The alternative fee arrangements helps clients take an active role in deciding how to pay the firm for representing them.
After sending out the letters, I went back to pulling myself up by my bootstraps. I put all the functioning pieces of my law firm back in order – phone, email, website, etc. I worked with a phenomenal business coach to make sure I put a success plan into place. I truly believe that all of my 2017 success is due to my business coach’s support. She was a sounding board and a fantastic cheerleader. Some days she believed in me more than I believed in myself. She pushed me to want to be better.
Once the letters hit the desks of my friends and colleagues, the phone started ringing. Some phone calls were from those colleagues to share their congratulations and warm wishes. Some phone calls were from new clients. As phone calls turned into coffee meetings and lunch dates, I realized that over the last six years of previously having my own firm, I developed some pretty amazing relationships with my colleagues. They are supportive – both personally and professionally. They are so giving of their time and knowledge. They are the tribe upon which I relied to help pull me up by my bootstraps. They made 2017 fantastic.
As we head into 2018, I wish you continued success in the new year, inspiration to reach your goals, and a tribe as amazing as mine. Happy New Year!