December is a whirlwind month for lawyers — closing deals before the year ends, attending festive events, and managing a diary filled with work-hard, play-hard commitments. With so much happening, business development often becomes a problem for “future you.” But a little forward planning now can make a huge difference, setting you up to hit the ground running in 2025.
Here’s the good news: you don’t have to overhaul your BD strategy in December. A few simple actions taken now can ensure that when you’re back at your desk on 2nd January, you’re already ahead. Pick one to do this week — or tackle them all if you’re feeling ambitious!
Send a thoughtful year-end message
- Action: Draft a short, personalised message to 2-5 of your key clients and referrers. Thank them for their support this year, share one relevant update (personal or professional), and wish them an enjoyable break & that you look forward to working with them in the new year.
Identify key contacts for 2025
- Action: Take a look at your team BD plans / any referrer plans. Make a list of 5 people you want to build stronger relationships with next year. They could be potential clients, referrers, or even teams/colleagues.
Schedule a coffee or virtual catch-up
- Action: Set up at least one meeting in January with someone on your key contacts list. Get the ball rolling before the New Year by sending the invite now.
Refresh your LinkedIn profile
- Action: Spend 15 minutes updating your profile. Add recent work highlights, a professional headshot if needed, and ensure your headline reflects your current role and expertise.
Update your BD Plan
- Action: If you don’t have a BD plan, jot down a simple one-pager with goals for Q1. If you do have one, review it and outline 2-3 actions to take in January to keep it moving forward.
