You just made partner. Congratulations!
You’ve worked hard, built trust, and delivered great results. But here’s the challenge I’ve seen time and again:
New partners often wait.
They wait to be pulled into new matters.
Wait for someone to assign them clients.
Wait to be told how business development “should” work.
But here’s the truth: No one is going to do it for you.
The biggest mistake new partners make is assuming that business may magically arrive. It generally doesn’t work that way.
So what should you do instead? A few field-tested tips:
Start with your own network
You likely know far more people than you realize—from law school, clients, friends, board service, pro bono, and past matters.
Make a list. Reconnect.
People know you. They generally trust and like you.
It’s a great way to begin to build your network.
Create your own marketing campaign
Think about what it is that makes you unique.
What is your niche and why is it that you are drawn to it?
Utilize LinkedIn, but also think about how you market yourself in your firm biography and how you present your capabilities to the rest of the partnership.
Join client calls and offer value.
Meet the partners who can help you grow
Introduce yourself to those you may not yet know.
Referrals, guidance, internal advocates—this is your time to build those relationships intentionally.
Ask partners what’s on their radar.
Share what work excites you, and make it easy for them to refer business to you.
Think about what you can do to help them.
Think about how you present yourself
What impression do you leave when you meet another partner?
You don’t need a complete rebrand—but you do need consistency, clarity, and confidence.
Knowing your niche and truly becoming an area expert will be the best way to do this.
Know when to call in help
If you’re unsure where to begin—or feel stuck—speak to your marketing department if you have one or arrange to use a coach.
Build your own internal and external board of directors.
Reach out in whatever way feels comfortable.
I’ve spoken at several partner retreats on this topic, and really believe that sometimes a few conversations and a one-page plan is all it takes.
You’ve earned the title. Now it’s time to own your practice.
