One of the most effective tools I have used since I started my solicitor’s practice in 2011 (and again in 2013) is my ability to communicate.
There are two areas where my deployment of useful communication skills has reaped the most reward:
- In my social media marketing, and especially in video marketing
- In my interactions with clients or persons making enquiries to the office
I attribute whatever skill I have as a communicator, especially in relation to dealing with clients or leads, to my background in retailing.
Retailing very quickly immerses you in a face to face, repeated exposure to dealing with people from all walks of life, with varying degrees of sanity and intelligence.
The ability to deal with such people allows you to develop a tremendous skill and asset for my practice.
It is one that my colleagues, safely ensconced in the law industry for their entire professional life, do not the opportunity or obligation to develop.
Working in retailing can be demanding on many fronts, but dealing with people is a fantastic experience that can be put to good use in all walks of life later.