Carlton Fields Minority Lawyer Network Retreat
11/06 - 07/2009
MIAMI - On November 6 and 7, 2009, Carlton Fields’ Minority Lawyer Network hosted a retreat in the firm’s Miami office. The retreat provided Carlton Fields minority attorneys with the opportunity to socialize and hear valuable business development information from minority lawyers colleagues and firm senior management.
The retreat included a dynamic panel presentation entitled, "Developing the rainbow before the storm: A conversation with Rainmakers and Stormchasers." Panelists included Carlton Fields attorneys Steven J. Brodie, Jose A. Loredo, Wendy F. Lumish, Benjamine Reid, and Carlton Fields President and CEO Gary L. Sasso. The panel discussion focused on individual marketing and business development strategies. Panelists discussed the strategies they used to become successful; the obstacles they faced; and practical tips for business development. The discussion also explored how the lack of "Diversity" in the legal profession has impacted the panelists’ ability to "make rain." With companies and clients signing the "Call to Action" and other initiatives to promote diversity, the group learned if these successful lawyers' business development efforts have been aided or impeded.
During another panel presentation, several firm practice group leaders presented on “Diversity, Development & Depth: The Realities of Practice Group Leaders." Panelist included Gregory M. Cesarano (Products Liability); Dennis J. Olle (Corporate, Securities & Tax); Edith G. Osman (Family Law), and Anthony H. Pelle (Insurance). The panel discussion focused on the impact of "Diversity" on strategic plans for the practice groups and business development strategies. Additionally, the panel explored how diversity is factored into efforts to address weaknesses and increase "depth on the bench" in practice areas. The panel also discussed staffing and work distribution practices as well as the ability to assemble diverse teams for matters.
Carlton Fields Writer and Technology Manager, Kristy Ayala, presented on “Internet Presence/Social Networking” and provided tips for harnessing the power of the World Wide Web and Web 2.0 for marketing and business development.
The final panel presentation entitled "Cross-Selling Strategies" featured Carlton Fields attorneys Kelly Cruz-Brown, Larry Gold, and Derek Harris discussing successful cross-selling and business development strategies for clients wanting the benefits of "diverse" legal representation. Panelists shared their success stories and challenges in cross-selling diverse attorneys. As part of the discussion, panelist provided practical tips on how to aid others in their efforts to market and sell diverse attorneys.
View photos from the Minority Lawyer Network Retreat or view the Minority Lawyer Network Retreat agenda.