Building a scalable personal brand as a global lawyer

By Preciousgift Ajudie- Ogunsanya, Personal Branding Specialist

In the bustling world of Business, Commercial Disputes, Domestic Issues, and so on, the legal profession is needed and highly revered, however, lawyers who stand out, stand out not just for their legal acumen but for their distinctive personal brand.

For example, Adebayo (not his real name), a Nigerian lawyer, faced the same challenges as many aspiring lawyers: long hours doing research, a relentless pursuit for better financial remuneration, and a passion for practicing law. However, he soon realized that technical skills and legal knowledge, though essential, were not enough to set him apart in a crowded market. Adebayo needed to develop a unique identity—his personal brand.

Personal branding is the intentional and consistent practice of marketing oneself and one’s career/passion as a brand. It involves defining and consistently communicating a unique set of values, strengths, and professional attributes that distinguish an individual from others in their field. For lawyers, personal branding is not just about reputation; it’s about creating a narrative that resonates with clients, colleagues, and the broader community.

In today’s digital age, having a strong personal brand is crucial for professionals in all fields, including law. A well-crafted personal brand can set you apart, highlight your expertise, and attract the right clients and opportunities.

Let’s explore practical steps to building a personal brand as a Lawyer using Barrister Adebayo as a Case Study.

Authenticity: Adebayo’s brand had to be first deeply rooted in authenticity. Clients will trust you with their most sensitive issues when they know you are genuine. Your personal brand should be a true reflection of who you genuinely are. Whether extroverted or introverted, traditional or non-conformist, you must show up just as you are. Authenticity fosters trust and establishes a strong, lasting connection with your clients, setting you apart in a competitive market.

Expertise and Niche Focus: He also needed to focus on a niche. During consultation, we concluded that he chooses a niche that he is passionate about and that has a demand in the market. He now positions himself as an expert in corporate law, particularly in mergers and acquisitions. By focusing on a niche, he has become the go-to lawyer for complex corporate transactions. His frequent publications in legal journals and his active participation in industry seminars further cement his expertise.

Community Engagement: Adebayo believes in giving back to the community. He regularly hosts free legal clinics and workshops, offering one or two pro bono services to those who cannot afford legal representation. This not only showcases his commitment to social justice but also enhances his visibility and reputation. He also now attends legal networking events, joined professional associations, and connected with peers and mentors. He testified that building a strong network opens the door to new career opportunities for him.

Professional Appearance and Digital Presence: Understanding the importance of first impressions, ‘Bayo maintains a professional appearance. He also recognizes the power of digital media particularly his LinkedIn profile and how it can help him reach a broader audience and reinforce his brand.

Lastly, ‘Bayo invests time in building and maintaining relationships within the legal community. He mentors young lawyers, collaborates with peers, and fosters strong client connections. These relationships are crucial in sustaining and growing his personal brand.

In the ever-evolving landscape of law, personal branding is not a luxury but a necessity. By following this blueprint, lawyers can create a powerful personal brand that not only sets them apart but also propels them to greater heights in their careers.

Intend to begin building your Personal Brand both Online and Offline?
Then maintain a professional appearance both online and offline. Ensure your communication, from emails to social media posts, reflects your professionalism and expertise. Also update your professional profiles with detailed information about your qualifications, experience, and notable cases. Highlight your achievements and any awards or recognitions. Seek opportunities to speak at legal seminars, conferences, and webinars. Offer to conduct workshops or training sessions

Building a personal brand as a lawyer is a strategic process that requires consistency, authenticity, and engagement. Start today by reaching out to a personal branding specialist dedicated to helping professionals like you to shine.

Ajudie-Ogunsanya is a Personal Branding Specialist who helps professionals,
changemakers and retirees amplify and build powerful personal brands around their unique expertise and knowledge for increased impact, influence, and profit. She can be reached via her
LinkedIn Page or her email at thepreciousgiftajudie@gmail.com for Speaking Engagements,Training, Media Placements, or Personal Branding Consultations