In a profession long defined by precision, professionalism, and a polished image, one boutique law firm owner reveals how embracing vulnerability can be a powerful strategic advantage.
Speaking on a recent episode of The Boutique Lawyer Show, Marianne Marchesi, founder and managing principal of Legalite, explained that embracing vulnerability as a firm owner can be a powerful strategic advantage – one that not only humanises leaders but also helps build deeper, more meaningful relationships.
In the same episode, she candidly reflected on the personal and professional challenges she faced as a firm owner in the last financial year; and how she chose to rise above them rather than give up.
Marchesi described herself as a “huge advocate” for openly sharing the challenges of being a firm owner, emphasising that “people don’t resonate with perfection, they resonate with vulnerability”.
While perfection may project strength, Marchesi argued that in today’s legal market, it is vital for firm owners to reveal the vulnerable side of what it means to lead in law.
“It is really important to share the real hard struggle of running a business or a law firm because it is hard and it’s not for the faint-hearted,” she said.
She stressed the importance of openness, noting that it helps break down stigma, normalise these conversations, and support others facing similar challenges.
“The more that we can talk about it, the less stigmatised it is when you are, when you are going through your own struggles,” she noted.
For many firm leaders, projecting an image of control and success has long been seen as the safer path. However, Marchesi believes this approach is outdated, arguing that there is a clear business case for authenticity.
“There’s a good business case for it. If you’re trying to attract valuable people in your network. Yes, and if you do want to have transactional relationships, if you do want to be a bulldog, it might not be for you to be vulnerable, but they’re not personally, they’re not the type of clients and people that I’m trying to attract,” she stated.
Marchesi emphasised that showing vulnerability as a law firm owner is crucial for demonstrating that facing tough moments is a universal experience – one that cannot be avoided, and is better met with honesty.
“It’s important for other law firm owners to know that it’s normal and that often what you see on social media is the highlight reel. But everybody does go through tough moments, and you can’t avoid them. They will happen, but it’s just about how you are going to respond to them in the moment and get support,” she outlined.
While it’s important to show vulnerability, Marchesi emphasised the value of having strong support networks, both personally and professionally, to help navigate challenging times.
“It’s so important to have good people around you that support you and want the best for you. But also what if you can’t do it anymore and you don’t want to do it anymore? You don’t have to. So I think giving yourself the freedom to make a decision that is right for you and for your life,” she said.
