On January 28 I moderated an innovative virtual panel discussion examining three of the first efforts at law firms to implement integrated social media campaigns. Kelly Hoey from 85Broads, Russell Lawson from Sands Anderson Marks & Miller, PC, Andrea K. Stimmel from Curtis, Mallet-Prevost, Colt & Mosle LLP and I explored our social networks in real time while participants connected, shared their thoughts and posed questions on twitter using the hastag #ISMC.

As law firms continue to struggle under the weight of the economic downturn, online positioning and advertising opportunities have emerged as an inexpensive way to elevate their brand and raise name awareness. Increasing your online visibility can draw more visitors to your website, position you as a thought leader and attract new customers.

It’s that time of year again. Your desk and inbox are flooded with holiday cards. I know there are folks who have very strong feelings about whether or not print or digital is the best medium to send thanks and best wishes at holiday time. Personally, I feel like both can be done well. The problem is few ARE actually done well. The majority of cards I see—be they paper or pixil—are utterly generic and impersonal. And what does that say about how you view your relationship with the recipient?

I recently attended a LA LMA chapter meeting titled “Breaking Through: How to Build a Successful Sales Initiative in your Firm." If it comes to your area I urge you to attend. It was not only inspiring but incredibly informative (and highly entertaining).

In his fast-paced, interactive session, Alvidas Jasin of Thompson Hine discussed some of the critical barriers that he broke though with his lawyers to build successful client teams and a successful sales effort:

The recession hit big law firms particularly hard. This past year has seen extensive layoffs and firms closing their doors. The traditional structure based on exorbitant billing rates and over staffed matters just doesn’t work anymore.