The Business of Law: Human or Commodity?
An Opinion Piece by Elena Favaro Viana
When I was a new lawyer, I spent the initial few months trying to build out my network. I met a gentleman once, whom at the time, I admired and looked up to, and set up a coffee date with him. I did not have a lot of expectations going into it but felt throughout the entire conversation that there was not an exchange of mutual respect → if we can even call it that. It was clear to me that he thought because I was a new lawyer, I was seeking out handouts, rather than wanting to pull my own weight, and more importantly was of very little value to him, his career and ultimate success.
At one point he brought up revenue. He said “Well, you know – when you start making about $5,000 a month you can always reach back out”. I answered: “I make between three and four times that right now”. I was about four months into my practice, and things had picked up quickly. He brought it up – and I simply corrected him.
I will never forget how he sat back and said….
“Well, now, see, that’s interesting. Now you have something I want”.
The tables turned quickly. All of a sudden “respect” entered the conversation.
It became very clear in the next brief exchange that (1) my new practice was generating more revenue than his, and (2) that I quickly became a commodity to him, and not a colleague.
That second one left a lingering taste in my mouth, that now – almost two years later, is still very sour.
They say business is not personal, and to a certain extent that is absolutely correct. Money is not personal, but I believe time and energy are. When you build your network, form strategic partnerships, and learn from one another, as this is a personal exchange of time and energy. Building out your network should not be based on “what can I gain from you?” but rather the understanding that there is something to be learned from every single person you meet.
Forming strategic alliances is not built from the amount of money someone brings in, but should be based on a mutual passion to align skill sets.
In my years, I have found that every person in business would be honoured to be a mentor in some capacity, and to be careful not to treat those ‘lower in rank’ or ‘experience’ without respect, because someday… and someday sooner than you think… they might just be ahead of you.
Author Credits
Elena Favaro Viana is the founding and managing partner of EFV Legal, a boutique law firm in the province of Ontario specializing in online business law for small businesses and entrepreneurs. She is also the founder of Contracts for Entrepreneurs.
Related Articles
My Client won’t pay me! What can I do? All about Collection Agencies and when to Hire One
If you don’t know what a collection agency is, you’re probably lucky and have never had to deal with a client refusing to pay you for your goods or services. A collection agency is a company that anyone, including lenders, creditors, and business owners, can hire to...
How to get out of a Legal Contract? All about Termination Clauses
When parties enter a contract, the goal is to ensure that both parties understand what they are agreeing to, which is crucial for avoiding misunderstandings and disputes. Some core elements of contracts include responsibilities of each party, deadlines, and payment....
Is a Handshake Agreement or Verbal Agreement Legally Binding?
Contrary to popular belief, contracts do not always have to be in writing. In fact, you can enter into a binding contract with someone just by shaking hands!What is a ‘Handshake Agreement’? A Handshake Agreement is an oral contract where the parties agree to the...