Business development makes many lawyers uneasy. Approaching new potential clients, asking for meetings or talking about your services can feel awkward and intimidating. Many worry about coming across as pushy or unprepared. That nervousness doesn’t mean you lack skill or talent. More often, it means no one has shown you how to approach business development in a way that fits your style and feels natural.

Your bio is one of the most overlooked yet powerful tools in your professional toolbox. It’s often the first thing someone sees when they look you up online. It lives on your firm website. It shows up in pitch materials. It’s linked in speaking engagements and event write-ups. It’s also usually the top result when someone Googles you. And yet, so many lawyers treat it as an afterthought.

The legal industry is at a turning point. Senior partners are retiring, clients expect more than ever and the skills needed to lead a firm go far beyond practicing law. Being a strong lawyer doesn’t automatically make someone a strong leader. It takes business savvy, strategic thinking, relationship management and the ability to make tough decisions in a high-stakes environment.

Walking into a networking event can feel daunting, even for experienced professionals. But here’s the thing – most people in the room feel the same way. Networking isn’t about working the room or handing out the most business cards; it’s about making meaningful connections. The best way to approach it? With a strategy that focuses on genuine conversations and follow-ups.