No One Teaches This: How Attorneys Actually Build Relationships, Develop Clients, and Become Rainmakers

Speakers:

• Tiffany Yeung, Cybersecurity and Data Privacy Attorney, Philip Morris International (PMI)
• Sejal Patel, Rainmaking Consultant & Founder, Sage Ivy Consulting
• Kristina Louey, Legal Counsel, Thayer Leadership
• Anand Agneshwar, Partner, Arnold & Porter

Program Chair: Sejal Patel

Law school teaches attorneys how to analyze, write, and advocate—but it rarely teaches them how to build relationships that turn into clients. Yet the ability to develop relationships and generate work is one of the most critical skills for long-term success and leadership in the legal profession.

This program explores how attorneys build credibility, form meaningful professional relationships, and turn those relationships into client opportunities. Through a practical and candid discussion, speakers will share how relationship-building evolves over time, what attorneys can do to stay top of mind, and how small, consistent actions lead to long-term client development.

Aligned with the theme of cultivating tomorrow’s leaders, this session focuses on how attorneys can take ownership of their professional growth by developing the skills necessary to build and sustain a book of business. Attendees will leave with a clearer understanding of how relationship strategy directly impacts career advancement, leadership opportunities, and long-term success in the legal profession.

Key Takeaways:

• Relationship-building is a skill, not a personality trait. Attorneys can develop a sustainable approach to client development regardless of practice area, seniority, or level of extroversion.
• Small, consistent actions over time are more effective than sporadic networking. Attendees will learn practical strategies to strengthen professional relationships, stay top of mind, and create opportunities through intentional follow-up.
• Building a book of business is directly connected to leadership and career advancement. Attorneys who intentionally cultivate relationships create more opportunities for client growth, firm leadership, and long-term professional success.