The Practice Development Framework is a structured 10-step system designed specifically for intellectual property lawyers.
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Most lawyers know business development matters. The challenge isn't knowing what to do. It's knowing where to start, what to prioritize, and how to stay consistent over time.
 
The Practice Development Framework provides a practical roadmap for building a sustainable book of business through intentional business development.
 
The framework can be implemented independently or through workshops, Strategy Sessions, and coaching engagements.

The framework is organized into 10 interconnected steps:
 
Step 1: Why BD? Why Me?
Clarifies the personal and professional motivation behind business development so lawyers can approach it with intention rather than obligation.
Focus: Alignment and motivation
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Step 2: Prepare for Success
Helps identify target markets, resources, and constraints before building a business development plan.
Focus: Readiness and prioritization
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Step 3: Thought Leadership
Explores how lawyers can build visibility through writing, speaking, and selective positioning within their areas of expertise.
Focus: Credibility and visibility
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Step 4: Social Media Strategy
Provides a structured approach to using social media intentionally, without it becoming a time burden or distraction.
Focus: Efficient visibility building
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Step 5: LinkedIn Playbook
Focuses on using LinkedIn strategically to build professional relationships and communicate expertise clearly.
Focus: Relationship-based visibility
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Step 6: Relationship Development
Focus: Networking and client development
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Step 7: Organizations & Industry Involvement
Focuses on selecting and engaging with professional organizations that support long-term client development.
Focus: Strategic participation
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Step 8: Putting It Together
Helps integrate visibility, relationships, and planning into a cohesive approach to business development.
Focus: Integration
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Step 9: Scheduling for Success
Focuses on building realistic time structures that allow business development to happen consistently.
Focus: Execution planning
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Step 10: Habits That Build Books
Explores how to turn business development behaviors into repeatable habits that support long-term practice growth.
Focus: Consistency and sustainability

How it is used

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The Practice Development Framework is used in:

• Firm workshops (group implementation)

• Strategy Sessions (diagnostic application)

• Coaching (ongoing execution support)