Description:

Laid across a backdrop of funny personal toddler stories, this program highlights the correlations between raising a toddler and how to communicate effectively, directly, and assertively within a law firm setting.

We will walk through 10 effective communication tactics specifically proven successful in a law firm environment when communicating with attorneys, firm leadership and other departments to help attendees better position themselves as subject-matter experts and leaders within their firm, regardless of their role or title. We will discuss communication tactics such as the art of building consensus, practicing succinct communication, standing your ground, leading with your expertise, the art of repeating yourself and more. We will explore why it might be hard for us personally and professionally to master some of these techniques and learn how to overcome those insecurities and become thought leaders not only at our firms, but in the legal industry.

About the Speaker:

Danielle Smith                                                                                                                         Baker Women Director                                                                                             Baker Donelson

After several years in health care marketing, Danielle first entered the legal world as the marketing manager for the law firm of Burr & Forman in 2012.

In her nearly nine years at Burr & Forman, Danielle oversaw the marketing and communication strategies for the Firm which included two mergers, many office expansions and moves, and a footprint of 21 offices and more than 350 attorneys.

She was eventually promoted to director of marketing for the Firm, and in 2018, in addition to her marketing role, she was asked to serve as the Firm’s diversity committee administrator.

Today, Danielle serves as the Baker Women Director for Baker Donelson, working across department lines to create programs and resources that help advance attorneys and provide support for working parents at the Firm. Over her five-year tenure at Baker Donelson, she has created industry-leading programs that help women choose their own path to success, achieve equity status, grow their book of business, offer mentoring support and help develop future women leaders.

Danielle has also held many leadership roles in several legal industry organizations, including currently serving on the International Board of Directors for the Legal Marketing Association (LMA).