Trustee's Message
A Winning Investment
By Becky Gentry Esq. WilmerHale DBA Member-at-Large
“B
usy.” That’s my typical answer when someone asks how I’m doing. It’s also the response that I get when I ask the question to my colleagues and friends. We’re all busy. In addition to the demands of life, family, friends, pets, kids, clubs, charities, churches, etc., we’ve chosen a stressful and demanding profession. Whether you’re a practicing attorney, paralegal, or support staff, the demands are high, and the expectation is (or at least feels like) perfection. We need to provide exceptional client service in an increasingly tight timeframe. Technology means that we are expected to be available practically on-demand. And then there are billable hours. Tracking your day in 6-minute increments makes you hyper-aware of how you are spending your time and making the best use of it. With all these demands, it is hard to prioritize anything other than what we need to get done for the next filing, brief, deposition, or deal. And let’s be honest, even if there isn’t a pressing deadline, it’s hard to see past the looming billable hour requirement. Indeed, as I write this, I’m aware that this article will go unread in many inboxes across Dayton. But by focusing solely on assignments and billable work, we are selling ourselves short. I say all the time that I need to find time for this or that. To read this article or book or to attend a training on a relevant topic. I’m sure you do too. The truth is, though, you’re never going to find the time to invest in yourself and your career. You have to make the time. And unless you make the time, you won’t reach your potential professionally or personally. I asked experienced members of the Dayton Bar what they would say if they could give young lawyers one piece of advice about investing in themselves personally and professionally. Here’s what they said….
Never Stop Learning
As attorneys, we are required to earn CLE credits every two years. Instead of showing up, signing in and zoning out, think strategically about what programs you can attend to enhance your knowledge, improve your legal skills or to learn something interesting. And learning shouldn’t end when you satisfy your CLE requirement. “Take time honing your craft,” said Anne Keeton, “attend CLEs that interest you, read articles, research, etc. Become knowledgeable in your area.” Also, consider volunteering to help present a CLE – it’s a great motivation to learn more about the topic and to hone your presentation skills.
Get Involved Outside of the Office
Another way to invest in yourself and others is by volunteering and participating in activities away from the office. Getting involved can provide personal satisfaction and help develop business. “I would encourage every young lawyer to look over the volunteer opportunities in the city and pick one and get really involved. Become a major contributor to that organization. Over time that activity shall entwine the young lawyer deeply into the community, and shall be very rewarding, both in a professional sense and in a personal sense of giving back,” said Merle F. Wilderding.
John Ruffolo added, “I believe that attorneys need to be leaders in outside activities. I invested in my love of soccer. I volunteered to become a coach, the attorney for several clubs, President of the league (a non-profit organization), and finally, President of the whole state-wide organization. One's legal background and insight are always appreciated at Board meetings. I made many new friends and a number of them became my clients or referred clients. It also allowed me to travel with my wife and children for games and national meetings.”
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Dayton Bar Briefs May 2020
937.222.7902
