Is your Professional Image Recession-Proof?

Katy Goshtasbi

It takes only seven seconds for people to decide whether they want to work with you.

Mrs. Goshtasbi states in an article for the ABA that a successful legal image is not about appearance alone. "Appearance is certainly a big factor. However, a lawyer's overall image is the sum of his or her appearance, behavior and communication.

Behavior as a component of a successful legal image encompasses understanding your clients—their expectations and preferences—then tailoring your behavior to suit your clients. How you treat your colleagues and support staff is also important, as your behavior speaks to the image you seek to create.

Communication is vital too. As a component of a successful legal image, how you communicate matters. Your intonation, body language and word selection influences what people think of you. Specifically in terms of clients, your communication style can improve or damage client relationships. Good communication involves good listening skills as well as relating to clients as human beings, not business transactions. Remember important events and dates, and communicate with clients regularly"

The entire article can be found at: http://www.abanet.org/media/youraba/200906/article01.html