A new year presents a valuable opportunity to strengthen client relationships and ensure alignment with their evolving needs. As a trusted advisor, it’s essential to proactively engage with clients to understand their goals, challenges, and strategic priorities. A General Counsel once shared, “I’m amazed how many law firms fail to ask about my goals for the year.” This insight speaks volumes. For lawyers, a thoughtful meeting to discuss a client’s objectives is not only a courtesy—it’s an essential aspect of offering high-value service. Here are ten key questions that can guide your conversations and set the stage for successful collaborations in the year ahead.
1. What are your top three priorities this year?
Understanding your client’s core focus areas allows you to tailor your legal services to support these objectives. This question invites them to reflect on what matters most and offers a great starting point for deeper discussions.
2. What are your primary goals and objectives for 2025?
By aligning your approach with your client’s broader business strategy, you position yourself as a key player in their success. This question ensures you’re aware of their long-term vision and can anticipate potential legal needs.
3. What organizational changes, if any, do you anticipate?
Change is inevitable. Whether it’s leadership shifts, restructuring, or new business models, understanding potential changes enables you to provide relevant legal advice early.
4. What industry trends do you foresee impacting your business in the coming year?
Awareness of industry-specific trends ensures that your advice is not only legally sound but also aligned with the business landscape your client operates in. This positions you as a forward-thinking strategic partner and trusted advisor.
5. What are the greatest challenges you anticipate facing in 2025?
Knowing your client’s pain points ahead of time allows you to proactively offer solutions. This question demonstrates your commitment to navigating risks alongside them.
6. Where do you see the greatest opportunities for improvement or growth?
This question invites your client to think about areas where legal innovation or efficiency gains could be impactful. Whether it’s process optimization or new market entry, you can identify areas where your firm’s expertise adds the most value.
7. What changes or challenges might impact your business, and how can we support you?
By offering yourself as a resource for navigating external pressures, you reinforce the notion of your firm as an indispensable partner, ready to provide timely legal guidance as situations evolve.
8. Are there any budgetary concerns or self-restraint we should be aware of?
In a law firm environment where financial transparency is key, addressing budgetary considerations early on is crucial. This question allows you to align expectations and avoid miscommunication around fees or billing practices.
9. Are there any legal or regulatory trends that concern or interest you?
Big law clients often face complex, rapidly changing regulations. By inquiring about their awareness of and concerns around these developments, you position yourself as a resource who keeps them informed of critical legal updates.
10. What are your top company initiatives for the year, and how can we help you execute them?
Understanding your client’s core initiatives and aligning your legal support with these efforts ensures you contribute meaningfully to their broader business goals—whether through compliance, risk management, or contract negotiations.
By starting the year with a clear understanding of your client’s priorities, challenges, and goals, you establish a foundation for a more productive and strategic partnership. As lawyers, it’s our role to be not just legal advisors but trusted partners who are deeply invested in our client’s success. These ten questions are a tool to help you deliver that value from the start of the year—and beyond.
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