In this week’s edition of Things I Wish I Knew, New York solo lawyer Joleena Louis gives insight into the changes that have made this year her most successful one yet.
2017 has been the best year yet for my practice and I attribute that success to some of the changes I made throughout the year.
I thought I might share the wealth by letting you know what those changes have been.
I Learned To Master All My Tools
I am the queen of trying new tools and I use several different types of software to manage my practice. One of the changes I made this year was to cut down on the number of tools I use and then focus on the ones that I determined to continue to use.
For example, I’ve used MyCase since 2014 but I wasn’t using it to its full potential. This year I took the time to learn how to master it and take advantage of all the features. Especially using the workflows functions and using it to create forms. I save hours each week and my file management is more efficient.
So from now on, if I’m going to use something in my practice I have to master it first.
Used Data To Help My Practice Grow
This year, more than past years, I’ve collected and analyzed data in all areas of my practice.
I used Google Analytics to collect data about my website performance. I know what keywords, content, and social platforms are leading people to my website. This information has helped me better tailor my content and increase conversions from my website. I also know where I need to focus on promoting my content.
Also, I have A/B tested everything this year. From PPC ads, to email headlines, even how my consultations are scheduled.
All this information allowed me to figure out what is really working and what I needed to change.
I Unapologetically Say No
I have big time FOMO (fear of missing out). I hate to think I missed opportunities or experiences. And I really hate feeling like I’m disappointing someone.
But as my practice grows, I simply can’t do everything. My time and energy are sacred and I have to be a better gatekeeper to who or what has access to these limited resources.
This year I made a conscious effort to say no to anything that did not make me happy or add value to my life or practice. That meant turning down more cases, getting rid of cases that were causing me stress, and turning down opportunities that didn’t align with my current focus.
And it has been the most freeing feeling I’ve ever experienced. I’m only dealing with people and things I want to deal with and I feel like I have more control of my time.
Running a law practice is like a never-ending experiment. The only way to grow is to keep changing and improving.
