13 www.lawyer-monthly.com USA Even though my clients might have been dealing with attorneys for months or even years, they find my communication style refreshingly approachable. It’s like opening a door to a conversation where they feel heard, understood, and not just like another case number. And you know what? I truly believe that this approach is instinctively female. There’s something about the way women naturally nurture connections and show empathy that can be a game-changer, especially in the legal world. It’s not about one-upping anyone or proving a point. It’s about creating an environment where clients feel comfortable sharing their concerns, even when those concerns are tied to complex legal matters. My practice isn’t just about resolving probate matters or juggling cases. It’s about making a difference in the lives of these clients who are navigating unfamiliar terrain. And if my natural inclination towards compassion and care, something that feels innately female, can be a guiding light in their journey, then that’s a win in my book. It’s about bringing a different flavor to the legal table, one that’s grounded in understanding, patience, and the desire to make a challenging process just a little bit easier. Managing your own firm for over 17 years is no small feat. What inspired you to take that entrepreneurial leap, and what advice do you have for other women aspiring to start their own firms? You know, my inspiration kind of snuck up on me. I looked around at the legal landscape and thought, “Hey, I could do this in a way that’s even better.” It’s this ongoing journey of learning and adapting, a reminder that what works today might not cut it tomorrow. So, staying open, staying curious, and being ready to roll with change – that’s been my mantra. I’ve got this hunger for knowledge that keeps me going. Seminars, podcasts, books – you name it, I’m in. Because here’s the thing: there’s no one-size-fits-all approach to running a successful practice. It’s a canvas waiting to be painted with your unique touch. And if I could offer advice to other women thinking of starting their own firms, I’d say stay true to yourself. Your firm should mirror your vision, and your vibe. If sneakers feel more “you” than suits, go for it. If you want an all-female team, make it happen. The sky’s the limit when it comes to creating a space that resonates with you. Now, managing people – that’s a whole different ballgame. I started small, and looking back, that was the best thing I could’ve done. It gave me the space to develop my own practices and procedures. You know, those little life hacks that help you tackle the day with more efficiency. There’s this one trick I use – I tackle the thing I dread the most as the first task of the day. It’s like getting the hard stuff out of the way and starting the day with a clean slate. But managing a team that’s been a journey in itself. When I first had assistants, I expected them to dive in with the same fervor I have. I thought they’d take the reins and run. But reality hit – their work styles were different. It took me a while to realize that not everyone’s going to have my exact work ethic, and that’s okay. As an employer, my focus shifted. It became about finding people who aligned with my core values when it came to clients and the firm. Then came the real magic – identifying each employee’s talents and skills. It’s like uncovering hidden gems. Once you know what they’re great at, you can create an environment that lets them shine. It’s a two-way street – they bring their strengths to the table, and in return, I get to see my team thrive. So, there you have it, the nitty-gritty of my journey. It’s about embracing change, creating a practice that’s an extension of yourself, and learning to lead in a way that lets your team flourish. It’s not always smooth sailing, but that’s what makes it an adventure worth taking. “This award is more than an honor; it’s a reminder that every step I’ve taken was worth it.”
RkJQdWJsaXNoZXIy Mjk3Mzkz