If you have been a long time reader, you likely remember that a lawyer I coached a few years ago has gone in-house. Starting in 2015, he has shared tips for me to pass on to those of you still practicing in law firms.
You might recall reading:
2016 Tips from My In-House Lawyer Friend
Client Development: Even More Tips from a Law Firm Lawyer Who is Now In-House
Client Development: More Tips from a Law Firm Lawyer Who is Now In-House
Client Development Tips: From Law Firm Lawyer Who is Now In-House
Cordell, I’ve got some new ones. These focus on communication which seems to be lacking by firms. It is so frustrating.
- It shouldn’t take longer than a day to respond to my e-mail or that of someone at my company. If you can’t check your e-mails each day (such as you being on vacation), have someone do that for you.
- A congratulatory e-mail to me when we announce a new product or have a significant development tells me you are paying attention to my company.
- When I send you an email inquiry asking for assistance, acknowledge the email so that I am aware you received it. If you can’t respond substantively immediately (which is fine), let me know when you can get to it so I can assess if I need to call someone else.
- If you get a call or email from someone other than me and I am your usual contact, you should inquire if I am aware of the inquiry. If one the departments I support reaches out to you, I would like you to tell me before you get started.