In the legal profession, reputation is everything. It precedes you in courtrooms, boardrooms, and client meetings. A lawyer’s reputation influences client retention, referral rates, and career trajectory. But what if your reputation isn’t what you want it to be?
The good news is that reputations can be managed and improved over time, although it requires consistent effort and strategic actions. As the saying goes, “The first impression is so lasting that it takes nine more impressions for someone to change their first impression.” This adage underscores the importance of continuous, positive interactions to reshape how you are perceived.
Step 1: What Do You Want Feedback On?
The first step in managing your reputation is identifying the areas where you need feedback. This could include:
-
-
Professional Competence: Are you seen as knowledgeable and skilled in your area of law?
-
Client Service: Do clients feel valued, heard, and well-served?
-
Communication Skills: Are your interactions clear, concise, and practical?
-
Ethical Standards: Do you uphold the highest ethical standards in your practice?
-
Professional Demeanor: Are you perceived as professional and respectful in all settings?
-
You can tailor the feedback process to gather relevant and actionable insights by pinpointing these areas.
Step 2: Based on What You Want, Who Should Give the Feedback?
Once you know what you want feedback on, the next step is to determine who can provide the most valuable insights. Consider the following sources:
-
-
Clients: They can provide direct feedback on your service quality, communication, and professionalism.
-
Colleagues and Peers: They can offer perspectives on your competence, work ethic, and ethical standards.
-
Supervisors or Partners: They can assess your overall performance, professional growth, and potential for advancement.
-
Subordinates or Junior Lawyers: They can provide feedback on your leadership, mentorship, and team dynamics.
-
Selecting the right people to provide feedback ensures you receive a well-rounded view of your reputation from various angles.
Step 3: Based on What and Who, Where Should the Feedback Be Given?
The setting in which feedback is given can significantly impact its effectiveness and authenticity. Consider the following venues:
-
-
Formal Performance Reviews: Structured and scheduled, these reviews provide a comprehensive and documented assessment.
-
Informal One-on-One Meetings: These can offer a more relaxed environment for candid and constructive feedback.
-
Client Satisfaction Surveys: Anonymous surveys can encourage honest feedback about clients’ experiences.
-
Peer Review Sessions: Collaborative sessions with colleagues can provide mutual feedback and shared insights.
-
Choosing the appropriate setting helps ensure that feedback is given thoughtfully and received constructively.
Step 4: Based on Who, What, and Where, When Should the Feedback Be Solicited?
Timing is crucial in the feedback process. Soliciting feedback at the right time ensures it is relevant and reflects recent interactions. Consider the following timing strategies:
-
-
Regular Intervals: Schedule feedback sessions regularly, such as quarterly or bi-annually, to track progress over time.
-
After Key Milestones: Seek feedback after significant events or milestones, such as the conclusion of a major case or project.
-
Following Client Interactions: Request feedback shortly after interactions with clients to capture their immediate impressions.
-
During Performance Reviews: Align feedback solicitation with formal performance reviews for a comprehensive evaluation.
-
Timing feedback appropriately helps maintain its relevance and ensures that it reflects current performance and interactions.
Conclusion
Your reputation as a lawyer is one of your most valuable assets. While overcoming a negative first impression can be challenging, it is possible with dedication and strategic action. You can reshape your reputation and enhance your professional standing by identifying what you need feedback on, selecting the right people to provide it, choosing appropriate settings, and timing the feedback effectively. Remember, each positive interaction builds towards a lasting, favorable impression that can open doors to new opportunities and long-term success.
