Beyond Business Cards: Authentic Networking for New Law Firm Partners

In this episode, Michelle Calcote King sits down with Megan Senese, co-founder and principal at stage, a woman-owned legal marketing and business development consultancy, to discuss how newly minted partners can develop authentic networking approaches that generate business.

Through her own journey from "networking-phobic" marketing professional to successful business developer, Megan demonstrates how connecting with people one-on-one transformed her career and led to connecting with 1,000 people in her first year of business. She identifies the two common mistakes lawyers make in business development: either being too transactional or building friendly relationships without ever asking for work. She shares practical techniques for initiating meaningful conversations, gracefully exiting interactions and creating effective virtual networking opportunities when in-person conferences aren't feasible.

Here’s a glimpse of what you’ll learn

• Why finding your authentic networking style matters more than following prescribed business development formulas.

• The two common mistakes lawyers make in business development and how to avoid them.

• Practical conversation starters that bypass superficial small talk, including the "high-low buffalo" technique.

• Strategies for gracefully exiting conversations while maintaining professional relationships.

• How to create effective virtual networking opportunities when in-person conferences aren't feasible.

• The importance of being proactive in developing your own networking initiatives.

• How authenticity in professional communications can strengthen your network and visibility.

About our featured guest

Megan Senese is a seasoned legal marketing and business development professional with more than 16 years of experience in Big Law and the Big Four. She co-founded stage, a women-owned firm dedicated to helping lawyers and law firms enhance their client relationships, revenue and market visibility.

Megan earned a Bachelor of Arts degree in corporate communications from Manhattan College, graduating magna cum laude. She began her career as a marketing intern at a law firm during college, which sparked her passion for legal marketing. Over the years, she has implemented client teams and launched industry programs at three different Am Law 100 firms.

Known for her efficiency and problem-solving abilities, Megan is often referred to as "Super Speedy Senese." She is a certified Smart Collaborator and an accredited partner authorized to administer the Gardner & Co. Smart Collaboration Accelerator™, enabling her to assist teams and individuals in enhancing their collaboration and communication skills.

Megan is a prolific writer and speaker. She has authored articles for Bloomberg Law and Law360, covering topics such as lateral partner integration and business development strategies. Additionally, she has been featured in various podcasts and speaking engagements, sharing her insights on authentic marketing and the power of collaboration in the legal industry.

Megan resides on Long Island with her family and their dog, balancing her professional commitments with family life while sharing her insights on managing both.

Resources mentioned in this episode

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