What is a rainmaker? I found this Wikipedia definition.
In business, a rainmaker is a person who brings in new business and wins new accounts almost by magic, since it is often not readily apparent how this new business activity is caused.
I think that definition is flawed when it comes to law. Why? I don’t think it is magic. I think lawyer rainmakers work hard to develop their skills and/or relationships that lead to recommendations and clients.
Do you want to be a rainmaker in your firm? If you know a rainmaker, I think you will find he or she has most of these attributes:
- They are really good lawyers. They may not be the smartest lawyer in their field but they have focused on always getting better and becoming the best lawyer they can be.
- They never feel they know all there is to know in their legal field.
- They genuinely care about their clients.
- They are empathetic and understand their client’s point of view.
- They are good listeners.
- They are open and friendly and are able to build trust and rapport quickly.
- They have a confidence inspiring personalities.
- They think outside the box to solve their clients’ problems.
- They are willing to get outside their comfort zone.
- Most importantly, they know what they want, they know what their clients need and they deliver value and exceed expectations.