Debbie Foster, CEO of Affinity Consulting, can build relationships with even the most challenging personalities. She is a nationally recognized thought leader on people, strategy, efficiency, and innovation in professional legal organizations. Her first project involving increased efficiency and change management came when she computerized the ordering system in a fine dining restaurant in 1994. She then underwent her first culture project, managing a dry cleaning store chain in 1995.

Currently, Debbie consults with law firms across the country, helping them solve their most challenging issues. With more than 20 years of experience, she works with legal firms and departments to help them build a future-proof organization and navigate the ever-changing legal services delivery landscape. She's also very active in the Association of Legal Administrators (ALA) and the law practice division of the American Bar Association.

WHAT’S COVERED IN THIS EPISODE ABOUT LEADERSHIP AND MANAGEMENT IN LAW FIRMS

“Grow and evolve, or get left behind.” That popular sentiment rings true for both people and organizations. The legal industry is evolving, and law firms must adapt to stay relevant. Leadership development is crucial, and law firms must intentionally cultivate skills and curiosity in their leaders.

In this episode of The Lawyer’s Edge podcast, Elise Holtzman sits down with Debbie Foster, CEO of Affinity Consulting, to talk about the importance of understanding the changing legal landscape and overcoming challenges in leadership and talent retention. Debbie will discuss the difference between leadership and management, the role of vulnerability in leadership, taking small but impactful actions as a leader, and more!

1:36 - How Debbie’s career evolved from selling computers to lawyers to becoming a leader in legal industry transformation

9:04 - What needs to happen in law firms to help with growth and success in management, leadership, and talent retention

14:54 - What law firms should do to help cultivate leadership and management in the people working for their organization

18:34 - Generational differences that exist in workplace expectations and leadership styles

21:05 - How management differs from leadership and why you need to understand the role of each in your law firm

25:31 - What you can do to prepare for the future if you’re not currently in a leadership or management role

29:56 - The importance of intentionality and vulnerability in personal and professional growth

36:01 - The kind of micro relationship-building tactics available to you every day

MENTIONED IN THE IMPORTANCE OF LEADERSHIP AND MANAGEMENT IN LAW FIRMS

Affinity Consulting | LinkedIn | Facebook | Twitter/X

The Leader Factor podcast (previously Culture By Design)

Simon Sinek

“Developing Rainmakers: The Key to a Thriving Law Practice with Elise Holtzman” | Powerful Leaders, No Apologies podcast

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The Lawyer’s Edge

SPONSOR FOR THIS EPISODE…

Today’s episode is brought to you by the coaching team at The Lawyer’s Edge, a training and coaching firm which has been focused exclusively on lawyers and law firms since 2008. 

Each member of The Lawyer’s Edge coaching team is a trained, certified, and experienced professional coach AND either a former practicing attorney or a former law firm marketing and business development professional. Whatever your professional objectives, our coaches can help you achieve your goals more quickly, more easily, and with significantly less stress. 

To get connected with YOUR coach, just email the team at [email protected]