#83: Business Development in BigLaw: Structural Barriers No One Talks About

If you've ever wondered why business development in BigLaw feels so slow, frustrating, and opaque even when you're doing everything right, this episode is for you. I break down the structural and strategic reasons many top-tier BigLaw attorneys struggle to build books of business. 

From long sales cycles to limited access to decision makers and visibility issues within firms, I explore what's really going on beneath the surface. If you're doing all the "right" things but not seeing results yet, I walk through the key signals that you're still on the right path and why your firm might not be noticing what you're doing well. 

You'll leave this episode with a better understanding of how to reframe your timeline, assess your positioning, and advocate for yourself with clarity.

At a Glance:
00:00 Why business development in BigLaw often feels slow—even for high performers
02:01 Structural barriers: access, trust cycles, and firm dynamics
03:30 Why early efforts rarely lead to immediate results
04:50 How your practice area impacts business development timing and strategy
06:04 Building credibility without headline matters or public wins
07:21 Finding your authentic style even if it's not networking events
08:29 What quiet traction looks like (and why your firm might miss it)
10:14 Engagement signals that show you're on the right track
11:07 Roles and visibility that deepen client relationships
12:25 Taking ownership of your business development strategy with structure and follow-up

Rate, Review, & Follow on Apple Podcasts & Spotify

Do you enjoy listening to Big Law Life?  Please consider rating and reviewing the show! This helps support and reach more people like you who want to grow a career in Big Law. 

For Apple Podcasts, click here, scroll to the bottom, tap to rate with five stars, and select "Write a Review." Then be sure to let me know what you loved most about the episode! Also, if you haven't done so already, follow the podcast here! 

For Spotify, tap here on your mobile phone, follow the podcast, listen to the show, then find the rating icon below the description, and tap to rate with five stars.

Interested in doing 1-2-1 coaching with Laura Terrell? Or learning more about her work coaching and consulting?

Here are ways to reach out to her:

www.lauraterrell.com 

[e-mail]  

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/lauralterrell/ 

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/lauraterrellcoaching/ 

Show notes: https://www.lauraterrell.com/podcast