In the words of Bob Dylan, ‘Times they are a-changin’... and never more so that in the beleaguered world of business. My message to you is that you always have a choice about how you react and prepare for any seismic shifts. In other words you can choose to be an Oyster or a Clam - read on.

There should be no doubt, that now is the perfect time to embrace change and wake up to
the fact that winners create their future.

Like it or lump it; we are all subject to rules and regulation - even apparently impermeable
professional domains, such as the legal profession, are not exempt from current market
forces. October saw the doors to the legal market flung right open and Alternative Business Structures embraced with a vengeance; in rightful recognition that a shift in emphasis from prescriptive rules - to a more flexible, outcomes-focused approach to business; is the only way forward.

The Solicitors Regulation Authority are delivering the changes via a new code of conduct.
Lawyers have not asked for these changes and I would say the majority are deeply
concerned about the effect that ABS will have upon their practices. As an erstwhile lawyer and self-employed business coach; I sympathise with any perceived criticism of existing good practice; whilst applauding the recognition and logical implementation of the ‘new order’.
 
If you think about it we all employ a code of conduct that governs our business activities.
Embracing the concept that ‘change is inevitable; growth is optional: you might like to
consider your own modus operandi : for instance - Are you distinctive? If so what for? We all have a brand - and by that I do not mean the one that incorporates a logo and mission statement: if someone were to describe your company; what would they say?

More importantly - are you delivering what your customers want - have you bothered to ask them? Always ask for feedback - and always listen.

Are you in control or simply ʻcareeringʼ through time? Doing what you have always done
just doesnʼt cut the mustard any more; market expectations demand increased customer
service and outcome focused delivery; requiring the involvement and commitment of
everyone who works under the same banner.

Are you being creative? The world is either your Oyster or your Clam. If you want to produce a pearl you will have to shift some sand. You may have some real pearls in your organisation that require a little cultivation; everyone in every organisation is an ambassador - recognise that and do whatever is necessary to develop their talents.

Finally, be reactive. Donʼt wait for the mountain to come to you. I get a sense that we
are all waiting for something; for someone to take up the baton - like the Olympic
Torch: to signal the start, the beginning, the right time to unleash; .... well I take on board
the words of Sara Henderson, who put it so succinctly:

"Don't wait for a light to appear at the end of the tunnel, stride down there...and light the
bloody thing yourself!"

Mary-Jane is our Chair, Business Coach and Advanced Emotional Intelligence Practitioner.