In this episode, we discuss the topic every litigator must deal with at some point: effective business development strategies. Guests Maureen Cruz, Ph.D., and Tracey Salmon-Smith, both with the firm of Faegre Drinker Biddle & Reath LLP, share tips for new business development. 

Waiting for the phone to ring and a client to drop into your lap isn’t a strategy. Running a practice and serving current needs take up a lot of your time. But if you can, try to carve out at least 10 to 15 percent of your time to network, follow up with clients, and put yourself in front of new clients and new environments.

Client and business development is a deliberate process. Start by setting some time aside on your calendar.

Keep up with those touchpoints and connections. Talk with colleagues across your firm. Read something that might impact a client’s interests? Pass it along. Whether it’s through publishing, speaking, networking, ABA involvement, or pro bono work, listen to two experienced professionals describe how to mindfully build your business.

Have a question, comment, or suggestion for an upcoming episode? Get in touch at MRogson@SkywardInsurance.com and JAReeder@JonesDay.com.

Resources: 

2026 Women in Litigation CLE Conference

American Bar Association

American Bar Association Litigation Section