Success Tip: Hold Yourself Accountable
Do you want to be more successful with client development? If so, find a way to hold yourself accountable. Here are some suggestions. One lawyer I coach created a scoring system for his 90 days goals. For example, he gives himself 2 points for each meeting with a client outside the office and gives himself 20 points for an article he gets published. Another lawyer I coach keeps a handwritten journal of her activities by date. Several lawyers I coach report monthly to their coaching group, their firm leadership and me.
Several other lawyers share with me their weekly plan and a report of what they did the previous week. Rob and Suzanne, a husband and wife team I coach here in Dallas recently began sharing their weekly plan/report with me. Yesterday Suzanne sent me this email:
Cordell, really like the weekly list idea, it helps keep me on track! Just called my one client for the day and got a new case!
I can’t assure you that holding yourself accountable on a weekly basis will result in a new matter, but I can assure you it will increase your chances because you will be more purposeful and focused.
Recently I asked a group of lawyers: If you were me what would you do to help more lawyers become successful. The majority suggested I create an affordable Internet coaching program.
I have given it thought, but before I do anything I would like your feedback. Here is how I envision an Internet coaching program would work:
- At the beginning I will send the same coaching questions I send to lawyers I coach in firms. I will use your answers to better understand your practice.
- I will ask you to tell me about yourself and what you enjoy outside of your law practice.
- I will help you prepare a business plan.
- Each month I will send you questions to answer about how you are doing.
- Each month you will share with me what you have done the previous month, what you plan to do the next month, and 1-3 questions you have for me.
- You will have access to weekly 5-7 minute video training/coaching sessions.
Please take time to let Joyce know your thoughts on this approach.
