SBAND EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR
SBAND EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR
SETTING PERSONAL AND PROFESSIONAL GOALS IN 2024
TONY J . WEILER SBAND Executive Director
I usually don ’ t make New Year resolutions , but I do set personal and professional goals each year . In the 10-plus years I ’ ve been your executive director , doing more pro bono has been a goal . I ’ m hoping we make some real progress in 2024 . If you haven ’ t had a chance , please check out North Dakota Free Legal Answers . You can take a question and help someone with very little time or effort . Your board of governors intends to take on strategic planning in 2024 , in an effort to look at what we do and where we can improve . We do many things well , too , and we will continue to do those .
Here are a few ideas on practicing law in 2024 , some of which are personal and others professional . These involve a combination of maintaining your existing legal skills , staying updated on legal developments , and adapting to changes in the legal profession . Here are some that SBAND can help with ( or perhaps your local bar ):
1 . Continuing Legal Education ( CLE ): Stay informed about changes in the law by participating in our CLE programs . SBAND continues to hold 15-17 CLEs per year , many of which are no cost or low cost . We make every effort to provide you with relevant and timely CLEs . When dealing with attorneys who practice in many areas of law , it ’ s difficult for us to put on any “ specialty ” CLEs , but we think what we provide applies to every area of law . Keep in mind the annual meeting June 12- 14 at the Delta by Marriott hotel in Fargo . The complete agenda will be out soon !
2 . Networking : Build and strengthen your professional network . Attend local bar events or look for others ways to connect with colleagues . Networking can lead to valuable referrals , collegiality , and sometimes insights into the practice in your city .
3 . Technology Integration : Embrace legal technology to streamline your practice . Explore case management software , document automation tools , and legal research platforms to enhance efficiency and effectiveness .
4 . Client Communication : Improve communication with your clients . Keep them informed about their cases , respond promptly to inquiries , and manage expectations . Effective communication is crucial for client satisfaction and trust . It ’ s also one of the biggest complaints received by disciplinary counsel . SBAND partners with several companies who can assist in this area .
5 . Time Management : Enhance your time management skills to increase productivity . Prioritize tasks , set realistic deadlines , and delegate when necessary . This will help you handle your workload more effectively . I have this as a goal every year , as I often struggle with efficiency when pulled in so many directions .
6 . Marketing and Branding : Invest in your personal and professional brand . Develop a strong online presence , update your website , and engage in targeted marketing efforts to attract new clients and opportunities . Networking with other lawyers is a great way to do this as well .
7 . Professional Development : What opportunities are out there for professional development beyond legal knowledge ? Would attending workshops or courses on leadership , negotiation skills , or business development help to round out your skill set ? I know that can be time consuming , but it ’ s a goal for me in 2024 .
8 . Mental Health and Well-being : Prioritize your mental health . The legal profession can be demanding , and we are not a healthy profession , so make self-care a priority . This might include regular breaks , exercise , and finding healthy ways to manage stress . SBAND offers seminars all year long on wellness , and I hope you can attend at least one . Don ’ t forget our Lawyer Assistance Program ( LAP ) and Member Assistance Program ( MAP ) are here to help if you need it . The LAP helps lawyers who are dealing with substance use disorders , as well as time management or practice management issues . The MAP allows you or a direct family member to attend up to eight counseling sessions a year for FREE !
9 . Stay Informed : Keep up on legal developments in your practice area . Subscribe to legal publications , follow relevant blogs , and participate in online forums to stay informed about changes in the law . We do as well as we can to keep you informed , but we don ’ t see or follow everything .
10 . Community Involvement : Give back to the community through pro bono work or volunteer activities . We need so much help in the pro bono area , which I mentioned above . I think you will get as much out of this as you give !
Our profession is dynamic , and adapting to changes is essential for success . That applies to the practice of law and bar association management . I spend a lot of time with colleagues around the country trying to keep up with changes and bring you the best possible programs or services that can improve your practice . We want to serve you , our members , so you can serve your clients . Our mission really is that simple .
I hope these tips give you some ideas on how 2024 can be your best year yet !
WINTER 2024 5