From associate opportunities to partner routines: building BD that lasts



Edition #21 | From associates converting opportunities, to partners mastering routines, to tools that simplify BD — plus a tip to start tomorrow with purpose


Welcome to Edition 21 of Trifecta!

As ever, if you have any questions, or something or someone you specifically want to hear from, let us know, we’re all ears.


Unlocking associate BD: three contributions you’re probably missing

Most leaders agree associates have a role in business development — but too often it’s limited to pitches and directories. With 2026 targets fast approaching, it’s time to unlock their full potential.

What if your associates could help convert dormant contacts into live opportunities? Or surface client trends before they hit the wider market? Or play an active role in BD now — not just once they’re on partner track?

In this article, we explore:

  • How to activate overlooked networks and relationship potential
  • Ways to capture frontline client insights for campaigns and content
  • BD skills that pay off now, not just “later”

Read the full article here.


Turning contacts into clients: A simple routine for rainmaking

Rainmaking isn’t about luck or charm — it’s about consistent action. The most successful partners don’t wait for instructions to land, they work a system: identifying the right contacts, tracking conversations, spotting commercial triggers, and staying visible between meetings.

Our latest article outlines a simple weekly routine — from building a focused watchlist of high-potential contacts to carving out 30 minutes to follow up and stay top-of-mind. Small, steady steps that turn warm connections into clients over time.

Read the full article here.


Struggling to get associates started with BD? We’ve got you covered.

We’ve just launched a new (and very practical) toolkit designed specifically for associates who want to build confidence, visibility, and momentum in business development — without the overwhelm.

Inside:

Milestones by career stage – what to focus on as a junior, mid-level, or senior

The Aim, Audience, Action framework – a simple, strategic way to build a BD plan

Quick-win BD habits – high-impact actions that take under 10 minutes

A ready-to-use tracker – so you can manage your pipeline without a CRM

Realistic routines – weekly planning, bare-minimum commitments, and tips for when billables take over

Download your copy here.

Whether you’re an associate, a BD lead, or a partner mentoring juniors, this is the perfect first step in building sustainable business development habits that last.

Ready to turn insight into action?

Our Associate Training Programme helps teams build the habits behind high-impact BD. Across four focused sessions, we turn skills into repeatable behaviours — so associates contribute with confidence and consistency.

We have a handful of Q4 slots left, and January start dates are now booking.

If you’re serious about unlocking associate BD in 2026, this is where it starts. Get in touch to reserve your spot.


Tip of the month: end your day with tomorrow’s plan

Before you log off, jot down your top 3 BD priorities for tomorrow. Whether it's following up with a prospect, drafting a pitch, or reconnecting with a referrer, deciding in advance keeps your momentum strong.

Why it works:

  • You start with purpose – no dithering, just action
  • BD doesn’t get pushed aside by client demands
  • Small, consistent steps build real pipeline progress over time

Turn this 2-minute habit into a daily routine — and watch your BD results compound. The best rainmakers aren’t lucky. They’re prepared.


Not sure what to do next?

You have a few options:

View previous editions of Trifecta by clicking here.

Want even more content? Check out the insights page on our website here.

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Trifecta

Our monthly newsletter is tailor-made for associate and senior associates (but we like to think it's useful for everyone in legal). Offering three pieces of carefully curated BD and marketing know-how, insights from industry experts and actionable advice to support you in developing your practice and personal brand.

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