Sarah Howard
I am the Business Development Manager at Elite Law Solicitors. I have 26 years retail and customer service background. My role within Elite Law is to build and maintain partnerships, Help build and strengthen the company while looking for areas of service we can expand it to provide all our clients a smooth journey with us.
Away from work I am a mother of 6 and a nana to 3 amazing grandchildren. They certainly keep me busy.
- Tell us a little bit about your business…
We are a national, multi-office law firm specialising in Clinical Negligence, Immigration, Family Law and Divorce, Residential Conveyancing, Commercial Property and Wills, Trusts and Probate.
At Elite Law Solicitors, we pride ourselves on our exceptional standards of client care. Our team is made up of highly qualified, experienced and dedicated legal practitioners, all of whom are committed to getting the best results for you.
Our multiple offices and use of cutting edge technology means our solicitors can offer the benefits of a wider network of legal experts and enables us to represent clients based all over the country.
- How did you get into the industry?
After working in retail for 26 years I felt it was time for a change, I worked at a previous law firm in the reception department, I worked up through the company learning more about different areas of law. Those around me and myself realised very quickly that my strengths were talking to people and I moved into Business development.
- What are the biggest opportunities and challenges in your industry?
The biggest opportunities are to be apart of a growing company and assisting with this. Challenges are competition from other law firms, keeping ahead of the game and up to date with changes of regulations and laws.
- How would you describe your leadership style?
Empathy, Transformational, Servant, Motivating, Active Listening, Coaching, Confidence, Empowerment, Integrity. Positivity and Communication.
- How do you get the most out of the people who work for you?
Ensure that you clearly communicate your expectations, goals, and objectives to your team. Let them know how their work contributes to the overall success of our projects or organisation.
Make sure that our team has all the necessary resources, tools, and training to excel in their roles. Support them by removing any obstacles and providing guidance whenever needed.
Regularly acknowledge and appreciate the efforts and achievements of our team members. Also, provide constructive feedback to help them grow and improve continuously.
Foster a positive and inclusive work culture where everyone feels valued, respected, and motivated. Encourage collaboration, teamwork, and open communication among the team.
Be a role model for our team by demonstrating the behaviour and work ethic we expect from them. Lead with integrity, professionalism, and a positive attitude.
Support the professional growth and development of our team members by providing opportunities for learning, training, and career advancement.
Be flexible and adaptable in your management approach. Recognise that each team member is unique and may have different needs and preferences.
Actively listen to the concerns, ideas, and feedback of our team members. Show empathy and understanding, and be responsive to their needs and suggestions.
By implementing these personalised strategies, we can create an environment where our team members are motivated, engaged, and able to perform at their best, leading to greater productivity and success for our organisation.
- What are the most crucial elements to your business running smoothly and being successful?
Defining a clear vision and mission statement helps align the firm’s partners, associates, and staff towards common objectives, guiding their efforts in serving clients effectively.
Effective leadership within the firm sets the tone for professionalism, ethical conduct, and client service excellence. Strong leadership empowers employees, fosters a positive work culture, and navigates the firm through challenges.
Recruiting, developing, and retaining talented Solicitors, paralegals, and support staff who are committed to legal excellence and client advocacy is critical for the firm’s success.
Placing clients’ needs at the forefront by providing exceptional legal representation, personalised service, and timely communication builds trust, fosters long-term relationships, and drives referrals.
Establishing clear communication channels internally and with clients promotes transparency, collaboration, and efficient case management, leading to successful outcomes.
- How has the past 12 months been for you?
The past 12 months have been amazing, I have built great partnerships and referral relationships, as well as finding new talent for a new department within Elite Law Solicitors. I am also very honoured to have become a finalist in the Lexis Nexis Legal Awards for 2024 in the category of Business Development of the year.
- What will the next 12 months look like for your business?
New offices opening, growing our departments and services while maintaining the high level of service we provide all our clients.
- What are the highlights of your career so far?
Being promoted to Business Development Manager and also becoming a finalist for Lexis Nexis award.
- What’s the biggest business mistake that you’ve learnt from?
Not something that I have seen in our company however I have noticed in many and that is communication, Communication is the key to any smooth journey for a client. It builds up trust and repour with clients. This is why we do all we can to keep lines of communication open with all our clients.
- What’s the best piece of business advice you’ve been given?
Believe in yourself and be yourself, Provide a service to be proud of.
