In today’s episode, I am joined by Joe Glynias, chair of Husch Blackwell. He is based in St. Louis and focuses his practice on employment law. As a former Executive Board member, Joe helped modernize the firm’s evaluation metrics and became Husch Blackwell's chair on April 1, 2024. He co-led the launch of HB In-House, a unique career development program designed to help lawyers transition to in-house roles and enhance client service.

We discuss how law firm lawyers can better understand in-house roles to enhance client service and prepare for potential transitions to in-house positions. Joe shares insights into HB In-House and how this program not only provides educational modules but also opportunities for secondments and job matching, offering a comprehensive approach to professional development.

Our conversation illustrates innovative ways law firms can better serve their clients and their lawyers with structured professional development programs and fostering open career path discussions.

At a glance:

• 00:00 – Introduction by Laura Terrell

• 00:20 – Understanding in-house roles

• 03:18 – Joe Glynias’s professional background and journey

• 05:08 – Overview of the HB In-House program

• 07:00 – Detailed breakdown of the program's curriculum

• 08:44 – Eligibility and application process for the program

• 10:24 – Client involvement and feedback on the program

• 12:32 – Importance of understanding client businesses

• 15:09 – Building better client relationships

• 17:06 – Historical approach vs. current structured program

• 18:33 – Handling job placement and matching

• 20:30 – Enhancing internal conversations about in-house transitions

• 22:06 – Feedback from alumni and in-house mentors

• 23:24 – Importance of maintaining strong alumni relationships

• 24:36 – Philosophical approach to client relationships

• 25:49 – Industry response and future growth of the program

• 28:05 – Delivery methods and cohort relationships

• 29:11 – Future plans and potential curriculum pivots

• 32:15 – Husch Blackwell’s business approach and leadership

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How to reach Joe Glynias:

joe.glynias@huschblackwell.com

https://www.linkedin.com/in/joe-glynias

http://www.huschblackwell.com

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

laura@lauraterrell.com

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

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

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

In today’s episode, I discuss more of the pressing questions and challenges that associates in large law firms frequently face, including how to handle situations such as contemplating a job change without a new position lined up, understanding the critical importance of billable hours, navigating the realities of unlimited PTO, and finding a fulfilling role in big law without becoming a rainmaker.

At a glance:

• 02:25 - Temporary vs. permanent need for a break

• 03:09 - Exploring family medical leave and sabbaticals

• 04:24 - Considering a permanent break and understanding its implications

• 05:09 - Financial preparedness and exploring options before making a decision

• 06:40 - The reality and expectations of billable hours in large law firms

• 07:54 - Consequences of not meeting billable hours and proactive measures

• 08:55 - Addressing non-billable work and taking steps to increase billable hours

• 10:30 - Understanding the professional expectations behind unlimited PTO

• 11:51 - Balancing time off with client obligations

• 12:34 - Preparing in advance for taking PTO and setting boundaries

• 12:59 - Realities of unlimited PTO in big law and planning for feasible time off

• 16:03 - Roles and opportunities for attorneys not interested in business development

• 16:57 - Exploring non-equity partner positions and other firm roles

• 17:25 - Evaluating firms based on their expectations and your career aspirations

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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

laura@lauraterrell.com

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

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

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

In today’s episode, I share actionable advice on how to handle being laid off, from the importance of understanding any severance agreement to securing references, and updating professional profiles. I discuss the importance also of maintaining professional relationships, and preparing a clear explanation for future employers about why you left your prior firm.

My goal is to prepare you to be in a strong position when you part ways with your firm, so that you have a clear plan for securing your next role.

At a glance:

• 01:09 - Navigating layoffs in big law firms post-pandemic

• 01:38 - Reasons for layoffs and the importance of not taking it personally

• 02:38 - Immediate steps after being laid off: reviewing severance agreements

• 03:26 - Key considerations in severance agreements, including non-disclosure clauses and severance pay

• 04:44 - Negotiating terms of severance agreements and outplacement services

• 05:28 - Handling personal files and client materials upon departure

• 06:15 - Securing references from colleagues and supervisors before leaving

• 07:17 - The importance of reaching out to mentors and supporters for references

• 08:16 - Broadening the net for references, including clients and former colleagues

• 08:50 - Updating employment status on LinkedIn and with professional associations

• 10:20 - Ensuring accurate representation of current employment status

• 11:02 - Preparing a clear and concise explanation for job departures

• 12:13 - Crafting and practicing your "elevator speech" for potential employers

• 14:11 - The importance of feeling confident and prepared during job transitions

• 14:59 - Conclusion and encouragement to stay informed and prepared

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

laura@lauraterrell.com

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

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

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

In today’s episode, I share personal experiences and practical strategies to help lawyers prepare for the often-dreaded self-evaluation process. I discuss the importance of using self-evaluations as an opportunity to highlight your accomplishments and craft a compelling narrative that showcases your strengths. I also discuss the value of keeping a detailed tracker throughout the year, seeking feedback on drafts, and preparing effectively for in-person evaluation meetings.

My goal is to reduce the fear and overwhelm surrounding this process by teaching you how to take a proactive, strategic approach to organizing and preparing for your self-evaluation throughout the year.

At a glance:

• 00:33 - The challenge of self-evaluations

• 02:06 - Importance of self-evaluations

• 02:32 - Leveraging self-evaluations

• 03:34 - Advice on specific examples and context

• 05:00 - Keeping a tracker

• 06:45 - Documenting feedback

• 08:10 - Setting and tracking goals

• 08:56 - Getting feedback on drafts

• 10:24 - Detailing specifics

• 13:13 - Reflecting on accomplishments

• 14:38 - Preparing for future moves

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

laura@lauraterrell.com

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

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

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

In today’s episode, I share some of the common mistakes lawyers make that can irritate clients and damage their chances for continuing to obtain work from those clients. These mistakes include how lawyers speak to and treat their clients, billing errors or unauthorized charges, a lack of attention to client preferences, and making assumptions rather than soliciting feedback.

At a glance:

• 01:20 - Common mistakes that irritate clients

• 02:18 - Talking down to clients and its repercussions

• 04:11 - Importance of understanding business concerns

• 04:51 - Poor billing practices and how to avoid them

• 08:01 - The importance of listening to clients

• 09:11 - Adhering to client directives

• 09:55 - Making every client feel important

• 11:34 - Avoiding miscommunication and seeking clarification

• 13:41 - The value of soliciting client feedback
  
  
  

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

laura@lauraterrell.com

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

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

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

In today’s episode, I share insights into business development strategies that are crucial for junior and senior attorneys in big law firms, including the importance of distinguishing oneself through unique insights, personalized approaches, and intentional networking.

At a glance:

• 01:11 - Overview of the episode’s focus on business development

• 01:43 - Common but insufficient business development advice

• 02:05 - Step 1: Share unique insights and avoid generic client alerts

• 03:03 - Step 2: Personalize your approach to client outreach

• 06:08 - Step 3: Find cost-effective connection opportunities

• 07:05 - Step 4: Tailor your approach to meet specific client needs

• 09:02 - Step 5: Discard ineffective strategies and adapt to changes

• 10:15 - Step 6: Use time intentionally and focus on high-ROI activities

• 12:05 - Knowing when to pivot and reassess business development efforts
  
  
  

Rate, Review, & Follow on Apple Podcasts

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. 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! A new episode releases every week! Follow now!

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

laura@lauraterrell.com

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

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

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

In today’s episode, I am joined by Amanda Raad, co-leader of Ropes & Gray’s Global Anti–Corruption and International Risk Practice and co-founder of R&G Insights Lab. Amanda shares her experiences of moving her practice from the US to London, the challenges and opportunities that came with that pivot, and how she successfully navigated the path to partnership along the way. She also discusses the importance of understanding firm culture, the strategic benefits of qualifying in a new jurisdiction, and the development of Ropes & Gray's Insights Lab.

Learn the importance of embracing new opportunities and fully committing to them as a unique way to bolster your professional integration and growth in a new market.

At a glance:

• 02:02 - Amanda’s role and expertise at Ropes & Gray

• 03:02 - Amanda’s journey from Indiana to London

• 05:08 - Motivation and support for moving to London

• 07:15 - Commitment and integration into the UK legal system

• 09:20 - Importance of qualifying as a solicitor in England and Wales

• 11:49 - Building relationships and understanding the UK legal market

• 13:39 - Balancing US and UK legal practices

• 16:15 - Amanda’s promotion to partner and its impact

• 18:08 - Developing client relationships and growing a practice

• 20:23 - Building a US and UK qualified team at Ropes & Gray

• 22:23 - Challenges and benefits of cross-border work

• 24:42 - Personal reflections on ten years in London

• 27:02 - Overcoming setbacks and staying committed

• 30:19 - Advice for attorneys considering international moves

• 33:13 - Balancing personal life and professional commitments

• 34:07 - Overview of Ropes & Gray’s Insights Lab
  
  

Rate, Review, & Follow on Apple Podcasts

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. 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! A new episode releases every week! Follow now!

How to reach Amanda Raad:

Amanda.Raad@ropesgray.com

LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/amanda-raad-947a194

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

laura@lauraterrell.com

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

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

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