Big Law Life

In today's episode, I share personal experiences and practical strategies to help lawyers prepare for the often-dreaded self-evaluation process. I discuss the importance of using self-evaluations as an opportunity to highlight your accomplishments and craft a compelling narrative that showcases your strengths. I also discuss the value of keeping a detailed tracker throughout the year, seeking feedback on drafts, and preparing effectively for in-person evaluation meetings.

My goal is to reduce the fear and overwhelm surrounding this process by teaching you how to take a proactive, strategic approach to organizing and preparing for your self-evaluation throughout the year.

At a glance:

• 00:33 - The challenge of self-evaluations

• 02:06 - Importance of self-evaluations

• 02:32 - Leveraging self-evaluations

• 03:34 - Advice on specific examples and context

• 05:00 - Keeping a tracker

• 06:45 - Documenting feedback

• 08:10 - Setting and tracking goals

• 08:56 - Getting feedback on drafts

• 10:24 - Detailing specifics

• 13:13 - Reflecting on accomplishments

• 14:38 - Preparing for future moves

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Do you enjoy listening to Big Law Life? Please consider rating and reviewing the show! This helps support and reach more people like you who want to grow a career in Big Law.

For Apple Podcasts, click here, scroll to the bottom, tap to rate with five stars, and select "Write a Review." Then be sure to let me know what you loved most about the episode! Also, if you haven't done so already, follow the podcast here!

For Spotify, tap here on your mobile phone, follow the podcast, listen to the show, then find the rating icon below the description, and tap to rate with five stars.

Interested in doing 1-2-1 coaching with Laura Terrell? Or learning more about her work coaching and consulting? - here are ways to reach out to her:

www.lauraterrell.com

[email protected]

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/lauralterrell/

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/lauraterrellcoaching/

Show notes: https://www.lauraterrell.com/podcast

In today's episode, I share some of the common mistakes lawyers make that can irritate clients and damage their chances for continuing to obtain work from those clients. These mistakes include how lawyers speak to and treat their clients, billing errors or unauthorized charges, a lack of attention to client preferences, and making assumptions rather than soliciting feedback.

At a glance:

• 01:20 - Common mistakes that irritate clients

• 02:18 - Talking down to clients and its repercussions

• 04:11 - Importance of understanding business concerns

• 04:51 - Poor billing practices and how to avoid them

• 08:01 - The importance of listening to clients

• 09:11 - Adhering to client directives

• 09:55 - Making every client feel important

• 11:34 - Avoiding miscommunication and seeking clarification

• 13:41 - The value of soliciting client feedback

Rate, Review, & Follow on Apple Podcasts & Spotify

Do you enjoy listening to Big Law Life? Please consider rating and reviewing the show! This helps support and reach more people like you who want to grow a career in Big Law.

For Apple Podcasts, click here, scroll to the bottom, tap to rate with five stars, and select "Write a Review." Then be sure to let me know what you loved most about the episode! Also, if you haven't done so already, follow the podcast here!

For Spotify, tap here on your mobile phone, follow the podcast, listen to the show, then find the rating icon below the description, and tap to rate with five stars.

Interested in doing 1-2-1 coaching with Laura Terrell? Or learning more about her work coaching and consulting? - here are ways to reach out to her:

www.lauraterrell.com

[email protected]

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/lauralterrell/

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/lauraterrellcoaching/

Show notes: https://www.lauraterrell.com/podcast

In today's episode, I share insights into business development strategies that are crucial for junior and senior attorneys in big law firms, including the importance of distinguishing oneself through unique insights, personalized approaches, and intentional networking.

At a glance:

• 01:11 - Overview of the episode's focus on business development

• 01:43 - Common but insufficient business development advice

• 02:05 - Step 1: Share unique insights and avoid generic client alerts

• 03:03 - Step 2: Personalize your approach to client outreach

• 06:08 - Step 3: Find cost-effective connection opportunities

• 07:05 - Step 4: Tailor your approach to meet specific client needs

• 09:02 - Step 5: Discard ineffective strategies and adapt to changes

• 10:15 - Step 6: Use time intentionally and focus on high-ROI activities

• 12:05 - Knowing when to pivot and reassess business development efforts

Rate, Review, & Follow on Apple Podcasts

Do you enjoy listening to Big Law Life? Please consider rating and reviewing the show! This helps support and reach more people like you who want to grow a career in Big Law. Click here, scroll to the bottom, tap to rate with five stars, and select "Write a Review." Then be sure to let me know what you loved most about the episode!

Also, if you haven't done so already, follow the podcast! A new episode releases every week! Follow now!

Interested in doing 1-2-1 coaching with Laura Terrell? Or learning more about her work coaching and consulting? - here are ways to reach out to her:

www.lauraterrell.com

[email protected]

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/lauralterrell/

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/lauraterrellcoaching/

Show notes: https://www.lauraterrell.com/podcast

In today's episode, I am joined by Amanda Raad, co-leader of Ropes & Gray's Global Anti–Corruption and International Risk Practice and co-founder of R&G Insights Lab. Amanda shares her experiences of moving her practice from the US to London, the challenges and opportunities that came with that pivot, and how she successfully navigated the path to partnership along the way. She also discusses the importance of understanding firm culture, the strategic benefits of qualifying in a new jurisdiction, and the development of Ropes & Gray's Insights Lab.

Learn the importance of embracing new opportunities and fully committing to them as a unique way to bolster your professional integration and growth in a new market.

At a glance:

• 02:02 - Amanda's role and expertise at Ropes & Gray

• 03:02 - Amanda's journey from Indiana to London

• 05:08 - Motivation and support for moving to London

• 07:15 - Commitment and integration into the UK legal system

• 09:20 - Importance of qualifying as a solicitor in England and Wales

• 11:49 - Building relationships and understanding the UK legal market

• 13:39 - Balancing US and UK legal practices

• 16:15 - Amanda's promotion to partner and its impact

• 18:08 - Developing client relationships and growing a practice

• 20:23 - Building a US and UK qualified team at Ropes & Gray

• 22:23 - Challenges and benefits of cross-border work

• 24:42 - Personal reflections on ten years in London

• 27:02 - Overcoming setbacks and staying committed

• 30:19 - Advice for attorneys considering international moves

• 33:13 - Balancing personal life and professional commitments

• 34:07 - Overview of Ropes & Gray's Insights Lab

Rate, Review, & Follow on Apple Podcasts

Do you enjoy listening to Big Law Life? Please consider rating and reviewing the show! This helps support and reach more people like you who want to grow a career in Big Law. Click here, scroll to the bottom, tap to rate with five stars, and select "Write a Review." Then be sure to let me know what you loved most about the episode!

Also, if you haven't done so already, follow the podcast! A new episode releases every week! Follow now!

How to reach Amanda Raad:

[email protected]

LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/amanda-raad-947a194

Interested in doing 1-2-1 coaching with Laura Terrell? Or learning more about her work coaching and consulting? - here are ways to reach out to her:

www.lauraterrell.com

[email protected]

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/lauralterrell/

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/lauraterrellcoaching/

Show notes: https://www.lauraterrell.com/podcast

In today's episode, I am joined by Kelley Brubaker, a CPA advising attorneys and their firms, and the host of the "Your Profitable Law Firm" podcast. Kelly shares how law firm shareholders and owners can better approach tax planning, budgeting, and the transition from W-2 employees to equity partners.

Learn how to manage unpredictable income, set up multiple bank accounts for better financial management, and the importance of early consultation with tax professionals.

At a glance:

• 02:32 - Kelly Brubaker's experience transitioning from Big Four to owning her own firm

• 04:30 - The importance of understanding tax implications when transitioning to an equity partner

• 07:15 - Understanding the financial and tax changes when becoming an equity partner

• 09:14 - Explanation of K-1 forms and tax responsibilities for equity partners

• 10:29 - Importance of early tax planning and quarterly payments to avoid penalties

• 12:37 - High interest rates and penalties for not paying taxes properly

• 13:37 - Advice on consulting tax professionals immediately upon making partner

• 14:45 - Managing unpredictable distributions and setting up bank accounts for different financial purposes

• 16:38 - Planning for capital calls and understanding their tax implications

• 18:15 - Managing unpredictable income and expenses throughout the year as a partner

• 19:56 - Using the Profit First methodology to manage finances and tax obligations

• 22:17 - Setting up bank accounts for specific expenses

• 24:08 - Explanation of basis and its tax implications for partners

• 25:25 - Importance of separating personal and business expenses for tax purposes

• 26:53 - Misconceptions about business deductions and the impact of the 2017 tax code changes

• 28:32 - Tracking business expenses and using technology to manage finances

• 29:46 - Common financial mistakes new partners make and how to avoid them

• 31:10 - The need for continuous involvement and awareness of firm finances

• 32:19 - Understanding state and local tax implications when firms expand to new jurisdictions

Rate, Review, & Follow on Apple Podcasts

Do you enjoy listening to Big Law Life? Please consider rating and reviewing the show! This helps support and reach more people like you who want to grow a career in Big Law. Click here, scroll to the bottom, tap to rate with five stars, and select "Write a Review." Then be sure to let me know what you loved most about the episode!

Also, if you haven't done so already, follow the podcast! A new episode releases every week! Follow now!

How to reach Kelley Brubaker:

• LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/kelleybrubaker/

• YouTube - https://www.youtube.com/@profit.scale.thrive

• Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/profit.scale.thrive

• Tiktok - https://www.tiktok.com/@profit.scale.thrive

• Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/profit.scale.thrive

• X/Twitter - https://x.com/kelleybrubaker

• Podcast – "Your Profitable Law Firm" - https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/your-profitable-law-firm/id1675779501

Interested in doing 1-2-1 coaching with Laura Terrell? Or learning more about her work coaching and consulting? - here are ways to reach out to her:

www.lauraterrell.com

[email protected]

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/lauralterrell/

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/lauraterrellcoaching/

Show notes: https://www.lauraterrell.com/podcast

In today's episode, I share critical factors lawyers should consider when thinking about whether to leave their current law firm. These include the various challenges and frustrations lawyers face, such as promotion paths, practice area prioritization, support within the firm, financial metrics, client contact, and alignment with personal values.

I provide actionable insights for lawyers at a crossroads in their careers, helping them evaluate their current positions and consider alternative options for professional growth and satisfaction.

At a glance:

• 01:20 - Key factors to consider when thinking about leaving your law firm

• 02:00 - Common reasons for lawyer turnover in big law firms

• 03:16 - Challenges with the promotion path and partnership

• 05:17 - Impact of firm's practice area prioritization on career progression

• 07:56 - Importance of having the right supporters or champions within the firm

• 09:30 - Financial metrics and profitability expectations in law firms

• 11:01 - The pressure of developing business and securing clients

• 12:03 - Lack of direct client contact and its impact on career advancement

• 13:08 - The misalignment of firm's values and priorities with personal goals

• 15:11 - Evaluating alternative options for professional growth

Rate, Review, & Follow on Apple Podcasts

Do you enjoy listening to Big Law Life? Please consider rating and reviewing the show! This helps support and reach more people like you who want to grow a career in Big Law. Click here, scroll to the bottom, tap to rate with five stars, and select "Write a Review." Then be sure to let me know what you loved most about the episode!

Also, if you haven't done so already, follow the podcast! A new episode releases every week! Follow now!

Interested in doing 1-2-1 coaching with Laura Terrell? Or learning more about her work coaching and consulting? - here are ways to reach out to her:

www.lauraterrell.com

[email protected]

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/lauralterrell/

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/lauraterrellcoaching/

Show notes: https://www.lauraterrell.com/podcast

In today's episode, we discuss the strategic use of LinkedIn for lawyers with Annette Choti, an attorney and the Founder of Law Quill, a full-service legal marketing agency, and Click Magnet Academy, where she teaches professionals how to leverage LinkedIn.

Annette shares insights into creating a compelling LinkedIn profile, the importance of content, and how to utilize LinkedIn as a powerful networking tool. Whether you're looking to establish your presence or enhance your professional brand, this episode is packed with practical advice tailored for legal professionals navigating the BigLaw landscape.

At a glance:

• 01:21 - Annette's journey from theater to law and digital marketing

• 02:15 - Annette's Career transition from government to founding Law Quill

• 04:15 - Addressing the gap in understanding legal compliance and marketing

• 06:13 - How Law Quill differentiates itself from other marketing agencies

• 08:21 - Creating engaging and authentic social media content

• 11:18 - The significance of LinkedIn for lawyers

• 14:15 - Key steps to enhance your profile

• 16:03 - Tips for creating relevant and engaging posts

• 19:21 - ChatGPT and using AI to inspire content ideas

• 23:05 - Navigating firm policies and personal branding on LinkedIn

• 26:56 - Practical steps to strategically pitch LinkedIn activities to firm management

• 29:14 - Key actions lawyers can take to improve their LinkedIn presence

Rate, Review, & Follow on Apple Podcasts

Do you enjoy listening to Big Law Life? Please consider rating and reviewing the show! This helps support and reach more people like you who want to grow a career in Big Law. Click here, scroll to the bottom, tap to rate with five stars, and select "Write a Review." Then be sure to let me know what you loved most about the episode!

Also, if you haven't done so already, follow the podcast! A new episode releases every week! Follow now!

How to reach Annette Choti: LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/annettechoti

Email: [email protected]

The Legal Marketing Lounge Podcast: https://lawquill.com/podcast

Interested in doing 1-2-1 coaching with Laura Terrell? Or learning more about her work coaching and consulting? - here are ways to reach out to her:

www.lauraterrell.com

[email protected]

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/lauralterrell/

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/lauraterrellcoaching/

Show notes: https://www.lauraterrell.com/podcast

In today's episode, I share important aspects of approaching your legal career through the lens of a business mindset.

This is an area where BigLaw can fail to help attorneys who need to know that the practical realities of practicing law require more than what you learned in law school.

Problems arise when lawyers aren't educated about how they fit into the firm's overall profile and when individual lawyers can't identify how their business goals and ambitions match the firm, company or other organization that they are working in. So it's time to get smart on how to have a more business-focused approach.

At a glance:

• 01:40 - The importance of understanding the business model of your law firm and aligning it with your personal goals

• 03:05 - How to cultivate a business mindset and why it's crucial for career progression in BigLaw

• 04:07 - Challenges lawyers face when their contributions don't align with the firm's business needs and potential consequences

• 06:01 - Tips to avoid career pitfalls by actively understanding and engaging with the firm's business strategies

• 07:51 - The significance of aligning with your clients' business needs and building deeper, more strategic relationships

• 09:53 - The broader impacts of understanding your industry and client's business landscape on legal practice

• 11:57 - The importance of being adaptable and willing to pivot your legal practice in response to changing market demands

• 14:28 - Maintaining a proactive approach to your career in BigLaw, leveraging a business mindset

Rate, Review, & Follow on Apple Podcasts

Do you enjoy listening to Big Law Life? Please consider rating and reviewing the show! This helps support and reach more people like you who want to grow a career in Big Law. Click here, scroll to the bottom, tap to rate with five stars, and select "Write a Review." Then be sure to let me know what you loved most about the episode!

Also, if you haven't done so already, follow the podcast! A new episode releases every week! Follow now!

Interested in doing 1-2-1 coaching with Laura Terrell? Or learning more about her work coaching and consulting? - here are ways to reach out to her:

www.lauraterrell.com

[email protected]

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/lauralterrell/

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/lauraterrellcoaching/

Show notes: https://www.lauraterrell.com/podcast

In today's episode, I share my insights on difficult questions BigLaw associates frequently ask.

While your law firm readily provides guidance regarding edits to memos, formal evaluations, and instructions about how to enter and close time, there is a lot more to life in a big law firm, and many of those questions are difficult to raise.

In this episode I discuss how to know whether or not it's time to leave your firm early in your career, tips to navigate switching practice areas well, how to manage your workload and talk to partners about capacity, and more.

At a glance:

• 01:46 - Addressing tough questions about firm dynamics and personal career paths

• 02:30 - Deciding whether to stay at or leave a law firm early in your career

• 05:14 - Challenges of managing client demands in private practice and moving in-house

• 07:13 - Strategies for handling disputes about your billed time and work

• 11:05 - How to handle leaving a firm with a toxic work environment

• 14:12 - Considerations for switching practice areas within law

• 16:28 - Managing workload and communicating with partners about capacity

Rate, Review, & Follow on Apple Podcasts

Do you enjoy listening to Big Law Life? Please consider rating and reviewing the show! This helps support and reach more people like you who want to grow a career in Big Law. Click here, scroll to the bottom, tap to rate with five stars, and select "Write a Review." Then be sure to let me know what you loved most about the episode!

Also, if you haven't done so already, follow the podcast! A new episode releases every week! Follow now!

Interested in doing 1-2-1 coaching with Laura Terrell? Or learning more about her work coaching and consulting? - here are ways to reach out to her:

www.lauraterrell.com

[email protected]

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/lauralterrell/

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/lauraterrellcoaching/

Show notes: https://www.lauraterrell.com/podcast

In today's episode, I share another critical piece involved in the recruiting process — optimizing your resume.

Updating your resume isn't easy and I've found there are some key areas to focus on that can make a big difference. I break down each of the components of a strong legal resume, from the strategic placement of key achievements to the nuances of listing your legal experiences. I also provide actionable advice on how to leverage your legal background effectively to stand out in a competitive BigLaw job market.

At a glance:

• 00:01:45 - The importance of a well-crafted resume and initial tips for refining it.

• 00:02:10 - Ensuring consistency across different professional profiles (LinkedIn, law firm bios).

• 00:04:35 - Addressing employment gaps and the importance of explaining any time away.

• 00:06:24 - Tailoring resumes to highlight specific experiences relevant to the job application.

• 00:09:11 - Avoiding overselling or underselling skills on resumes.

• 00:11:47 - The critical need for proofreading and maintaining consistent details throughout the resume.

Rate, Review, & Follow on Apple Podcasts

Do you enjoy listening to Big Law Life? Please consider rating and reviewing the show! This helps support and reach more people like you who want to grow a career in Big Law. Click here, scroll to the bottom, tap to rate with five stars, and select "Write a Review." Then be sure to let me know what you loved most about the episode!

Also, if you haven't done so already, follow the podcast! A new episode releases every week! Follow now!

Interested in doing 1-2-1 coaching with Laura Terrell? Or learning more about her work coaching and consulting? - here are ways to reach out to her:

www.lauraterrell.com

[email protected]

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/lauralterrell/

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/lauraterrellcoaching/

Show notes: https://www.lauraterrell.com/podcast