Building Influence Beyond the Billable Hour - Networking and Visibility for Lawyers

In other words, building influence and visibility is just as important as technical excellence. Yet it’s often overlooked, especially for lawyers early in their careers or those focused on keeping their heads down to meet client demands.

Here’s the truth: if no one notices the value you bring, it doesn’t matter how brilliant your work is. Influence isn’t about self-promotion — it’s about strategic visibility, relationship-building, and showing up in ways that genuinely add value. Here are some tips:

1. Map Your Network with Intention

Not all connections are equal. Some will support your career growth, others will offer learning opportunities, and some might be potential clients or referrers. A strategic approach to networking starts with clarity.

Practical steps:

• Identify 10–15 key people in your firm or industry whose opinion matters — mentors, peers, potential clients, or influencers.

• Categorise them by type: those who can sponsor your career, those who can provide guidance, and those who offer perspective.

• Plan small, consistent touchpoints: a coffee, a LinkedIn comment, or a brief check-in. Over time, these micro-actions build trust and visibility.

A strong network isn’t built overnight — it’s cultivated with intention and consistency. Coaching can help you clarify which relationships matter most and how to approach them authentically.

2. Elevate Your Presence Through Contribution

Visibility isn’t about talking louder — it’s about adding value where it counts. The lawyers who stand out do so by contributing insights, ideas, and support that others notice and remember.

Practical steps:

• Volunteer for committees, client pitch teams, or cross-practice projects where you can demonstrate leadership and expertise.

• Share knowledge: write a brief thought leadership post, present internally, or offer guidance to junior colleagues.

• Seek speaking opportunities at conferences or webinars — even small panels can dramatically increase your visibility.

By showing up consistently and constructively, you become known as someone who doesn’t just deliver work but elevates others and the firm’s profile.

3. Develop a Personal Brand that Reflects Your Values and Strengths

Your reputation is your most valuable asset. A personal brand isn’t about vanity — it’s the sum of how colleagues, clients, and peers experience you. Aligning your brand with your values and strengths ensures people remember you for the right reasons.

Practical steps:

• Ask trusted colleagues for feedback: how do they describe working with you? What’s your “signature” approach?

• Highlight your unique strengths in small but consistent ways — whether it’s thought leadership, client service, or mentorship.

• Use social platforms professionally: share insights, celebrate team wins, or comment on industry developments.

Coaching can support you in identifying and articulating your brand authentically, helping you move beyond reactive networking to intentional influence.

4. Build Influence Through Empathy and EQ

Technical skill alone won’t earn you influence — emotional intelligence is the multiplier. Lawyers who can read a room, manage conflict, and respond with awareness are the ones others follow and trust.

Practical steps:

• Practice active listening: ask questions, reflect back what you hear, and resist the urge to jump straight to solutions.

• Observe reactions in meetings: who needs encouragement? Who thrives on direct feedback? Adjust your approach accordingly.

• Celebrate others’ contributions: influence grows when people feel seen and valued.

Influence built on respect and empathy is sustainable. It creates advocates, sponsors, and allies who support your growth long-term.

Final Thought

Lawyers often spend their careers perfecting their craft, but the reality is that visibility and influence amplify success. Strategic networking, contribution, and personal branding — underpinned by emotional intelligence — can transform how others perceive your value, opening doors that billable hours alone cannot.

If you’re ready to strengthen your influence, grow your visibility, and navigate your career with intention, coaching can help. Together, we can map your network, clarify your personal brand, and develop strategies that position you for lasting impact.

Influence, visibility, and impact aren’t accidental — they’re deliberate. If you’re ready to elevate your career and be seen for the value you bring, DM me or email This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. — let’s create a strategy that gets you noticed for all the right reasons.

© JLegal Australia 2025