August 18, 2025

The old adage “monkey see, monkey do” might seem simplistic, but in the world of legal business development, the concept of emulation—striving to match or surpass someone through imitation—proves to be a powerful tool. As a legal business development coach, I’ve found that leading by example is not just beneficial, it’s essential for cultivating top-tier rainmakers in the legal field.
This philosophy isn’t about self-promotion. Rather, it’s a recognition that sharing our unique talents is a fundamental part of life. My coaching approach is centered on demonstrating the behaviors, skills, and mindset necessary to not only save time and increase revenue but to also live a fulfilling professional life.
Key Habits for Rainmaking Success
1. Positivity Powers Forward Motion: The journey to becoming a successful rainmaker starts with the right mindset. Negative thoughts like "I can't" or "I won't" set us up for failure. I encourage positive actions—whether it’s tackling a workout, clearing a backlog of tasks, or dedicating time to business development. This not only helps me stay productive but also instills a sense of optimism in my clients, transforming their doubts into motivation.
2. Becoming an Organizational Assassin: Organization and time management are the bedrocks of effective business development. I once struggled with cluttered desks and missed opportunities, much like many of my clients. However, embracing methodologies from productivity experts like David Allen and James Clear revolutionized my approach. My clients notice this change and are eager to learn how they can implement similar strategies in their practices.
3. Build Your Brand to Build Your Business: Demonstrating personal branding and marketing firsthand has a profound impact. My clients observe my active engagement—through books, podcasts, and articles—and understand the importance of visibility in building a successful practice. I practice what I preach, ensuring that the strategies I recommend are not only theoretical but tested in the real-world.
The Journey of Continuous Improvement
The path from where we start to where we end is filled with growth and opportunities. By embodying the principles I teach, I serve as a living blueprint for my clients. This enables them to trust the process, emulate successful behaviors, and apply them effectively in their own careers.
For those eager to embark on this transformative journey, embracing these principles can be the first step towards becoming a top lawyer rainmaker. The success of my clients, who credit this program for their achievements, underscores the effectiveness of leading by example.