There are a lot of moving parts to running your own law firm. You’re juggling client cases, overseeing associates, managing finances, and still marketing your firm. It can be overwhelming.
Many lawyers struggle to find work-life balance, but still aren’t seeing the results they feel long hours of hard work should bring.
‘Work smarter, not harder’ has become a bit of a social media catchphrase. It means seeking innovative ways to work more efficiently and maximise your outcomes.
The legal profession is evolving away from the idea of productivity measured by hours worked. With smart technology and a considered approach, you can too.
Here are six things you can do to start working smarter in your firm.
mattero integrates with your most commonly used apps, like Microsoft 365, Xero and Infotrack, which means the data for each matter is all kept in the one place.
You can create workflows for matter types, streamline client onboarding, and create your own precedents and templates—not only making your processes more efficient, but also reducing the risk of errors.
Say goodbye to the dusty piles of documents spilling out of your filing cabinets. Going paperless has many advantages—you’ll never have to worry which is the most up-to-date version of a document and you can merge matter and contact information directly into your template. Work from anywhere without worrying about whether you’ve brought the right files with you—you can access them on any device.
Outsource When Necessary
The modern workplace is changing and you no longer have to hire full-time staff when your workload starts to get too much. Consider using services like virtual assistants and paralegals or outsourcing to experts on a contract basis.
Making use of alternative staffing options means you have support when you need it, without the costly overheads of hiring full-time or permanent team members. Instead, avoid burnout and only pay for what you need.
Seek Knowledge in New Niches
The world is advancing, and new specialties in law keep evolving. Establishing yourself as an expert in these fields will keep your services in high demand. Understanding the digital space as the Metaverse and other technologies emerge will put you on the cutting edge of the legal profession.
Leverage the Power of Social Media
Social media platforms like LinkedIn, Twitter, and Instagram can help you connect with potential clients and establish you as an expert voice.
Build a personal brand on social media, and create quality content to showcase your expertise.
Then, after establishing credibility, offer consultation services online. You don’t need a physical office to start a small firm, as most people have adjusted to using Zoom and other video meeting platforms.
Network and Put Yourself Out There
Don’t undervalue the power of networking to let people know what you have to offer. Attend industry events and conferences, and get to know your colleagues.
Networking with the right people will give you insights into their expertise in the industry, so take this step to increase your knowledge and accelerate your career.
When you start working smarter, here are some benefits you and your firm will enjoy.
Increased Profits
With software like mattero, your law firm will get things done faster and more efficiently.
If you don’t have enough resources to employ many employees, adopt software that integrates and automates every aspect of your firm. Automating your firm increases profits and makes you spend little on human resources.
You Save Time and Energy
When you save time, you save money too. Working smarter helps to minimise your overheads, which is vital for small business success. It will also help support your work-life balance, which many small business owners struggle with.
Higher Levels of Productivity
Using innovative methods to run your law firm makes you more productive. Instead of spending your time on administrative tasks, you can shift your focus to where your expertise is needed.
You Make Informed Decisions
Smart practice management software gives you access to better analytics, so your decisions can be data-driven. You can track your productivity, get an overview of your most profitable services, and keep on top of compliance all in one place. Your choices can be strategic, based on real data.
Wrapping Up
It’s not too late to ditch the hard work mentality and start working smarter.
If you’re a solo lawyer or just starting your law firm, mattero can help you automate your entire legal process. So start your free trial today and let mattero help you work smarter.