The next time you're tempted to view another lawyer in your practice area as competition, ask yourself: could this be an opportunity for collaboration instead?

Carving out a niche is easier said than done. It requires courage and confidence. There are great potential rewards for those who embrace the challenge.

Clients are actively looking to move work to more cost-effective providers. This isn't just about cutting costs—it's about finding lawyers who can deliver more value for every dollar spent. So what does this mean for your practice?

Client elevation, when done thoughtfully, can be a powerful tactic. It's about showing your clients that you're invested in their success, not just in the legal work you do for them.

The next time you're planning to extend an invitation to get together with a client in a social setting, think about how you can make it more inclusive. You might be surprised at how much more receptive clients are when they feel their personal lives are being considered.

Lawyers who are working to build a legal practice face a common business development challenge: how to consistently reach out to key contacts without resorting to the dreaded “just checking in” email — messages that feel forced, add little value, and often go unanswered.

Don't let complacency dim the spark that made your client relationships special in the first place. Keep that fire burning bright.

By applying the 80/20 rule to your business development efforts, you can make the most of your limited time. Focus on nurturing relationships with your most valuable contacts while maintaining visibility with your broader network through scalable marketing tactics.

These meetings aren’t just good for your clients—they’re good for you too. You’ll deepen your understanding of your clients’ businesses, which makes you a more effective advocate.

The Ivy Lee Method works because it is a structured system, yet simple. It promotes planning, prioritization, and forced discipline, which are all hallmarks of effective productivity.