In Conversation with Ms. Mahima Sharma

Ms. Mahima Sharma is a seasoned professional with a diverse and enriching background, who has seamlessly navigated the intricate landscapes of law firm management during her professional journey.

Beyond her professional engagements, Mahima is a prolific author and presenter. She has published articles on Bar & Bench, authored a book titled 'Urbanization and Wildlife Survival in India and USA,' and presented research papers at conferences in Canada and India.

Her strategic acumen, forward-thinking approach, and dedication to staying at the forefront of the industry distinguish her as a guiding light in the law firm management community. Mahima’s impactful presence in shaping the landscape of law and advancing practice development serves as a source of motivation for aspiring professionals looking to forge successful careers in law firm management

What inspired you to pursue a career in law and marketing, given your diverse cultural experiences growing up in Uganda and then relocating to India?

Growing up encompasses a myriad of experiences that shape one’s life trajectory and establish a foundation for the future. I was fortunate enough to have the opportunity to grow up in Uganda, often referred to as the ‘Pearl of Africa’. This particular experience allowed me to develop a strong adaptability to diverse cultures. Relocating to India after primary school brought cultural challenges, but I learned the importance of persistence in the face of adversity.

I pursued a dual degree in Bachelor of Business Administration and Bachelor of Law (BBA LL.B) from Symbiosis Law School, Noida. The specific reason to choose this dual degree was to understand the intersection of business and law in today’s world. The program offered the opportunity to develop a strong foundation in legal procedures along with business knowledge.

During my studies, courses in marketing and management ignited my passion for these fields. I realized that combining legal with marketing and management knowledge would allow me to become a well-rounded professional.

Could you share your experiences from your internship opportunities with various law firms in India and globally?

My internships with law firms in both India and globally, including Wadia Ghandy, Bwengye and Associates, Amicus Services, and Alaya Legal, were transformative experiences. However, the turning point was receiving a pre-placement offer from Amicus Services, where I started as a Trainee Associate. This role allowed me to delve into the complexities of corporate legal matters while also giving me responsibilities in practice development and knowledge management, igniting my passion for Law Firm Management. Overall, these internships provided diverse exposure to various legal fields, honed my practical legal skills, emphasized the importance of professionalism and ethics, and expanded my professional network, equipping me for a dynamic career in law firm management.

What motivated you to combine your legal expertise with marketing and business development roles within law firms?

The motivation to merge my legal expertise with marketing and practice development roles within law firms stems from a desire to bridge the gap between traditional legal practice and the evolving demands of the modern legal landscape. I was inspired by the realization that the legal industry, like many others, is becoming increasingly reliant on strategic marketing, effective communication, and business acumen to thrive in a competitive environment. My passion for marketing and practice development was ignited during my academic journey as I mentioned above. By integrating these disciplines, I aim to be a well-rounded professional capable of delivering holistic value to the legal organizations I serve.

How do you view the relationship between law firms, marketing, and practice development, and how has your role at Legal League Consulting enhanced your understanding of this dynamic?

The relationship between law firms, marketing, and practice development is integral to the success and growth of legal practices in today's competitive landscape. Law firms are increasingly recognizing the importance of strategic marketing and practice development efforts to attract clients, build brand reputation, and expand their client base.

My role at Legal League Consulting has provided me with valuable insights into this dynamic relationship. I extend my heartfelt gratitude to my mentors, Bithika Anand (Founder, Chairman and Managing Director, and Nipun K Bhatiaa (Chief Executive Officer), for granting me the opportunity to understand the role of creating powerful brand and practice development in the growth of a law firm.I have come to view them as a cornerstone for achieving the next level of growth by any law firm, as they leverage the technical expertise and true merit of a firm. Branding-related initiatives, such as content creation, online presence management, and client outreach, create visibility and establish the firm's expertise in specific legal domains. Simultaneously, practice development efforts focus on nurturing client relationships, identifying new opportunities, and tailoring legal services to meet client needs.

In my position at Legal League Consulting, I've had the opportunity to witness firsthand how these concepts translate into practical actions.I've been involved in crafting tailored brand strategies, creating content to showcase the firm's legal expertise, and engaging in client relationship management. This experience has deepened my understanding of the pivotal role marketing and practice development play in driving the growth and sustainability of a law firm.

Moreover, I've learned that a well-coordinated approach between branding initiatives and practice development is essential. For instance, for effective practice development, the creation of a strong brand recall value and recognition plays a strategic role.

What initiatives or changes would you like to bring to the Indian legal industry in the future?

In shaping the future of the Indian legal industry, I am driven by a vision of profound transformation, with technology, diversity and inclusion, and mental well-being at its core. I aim to work towards the integration of legal technology, empowering legal professionals with AI-driven tools. Simultaneously, I'm committed to fostering a legal ecosystem that values diversity and inclusivity, promoting equitable hiring practices, nurturing inclusive cultures, and providing support networks for underrepresented groups. Moreover, I recognize the paramount importance of mental well-being in a demanding profession, and I'm dedicated to destigmatizing mental health discussions, advocating for work-life balance, and facilitating access to confidential mental health resources. By harmonizing these pillars, I aspire to sculpt an Indian legal industry that is not only technologically advanced but also diverse, inclusive, and genuinely concerned about the well-being of its professionals, ultimately serving as a beacon of progress and justice for all.

What soft skills do you believe are crucial for success in your field, and how have you developed them throughout your career?

In my field, a diverse array of soft skills stands as the bedrock of success. Effective communication, adaptability, and creative problem-solving are essential, and I've cultivated these skills through legal research, client interactions, and crafting innovative marketing strategies.

Time management skills have been finely tuned through the demanding juggle of balancing coursework and internships, a proficiency I continue to apply daily in my role as a consultant where each client’s needs require careful attention and efficient organization.

Collaborative teamwork and meticulous attention to detail have been nurtured during my internships and job. Emotional intelligence, a key to understanding clients and colleagues, has been sharpened through diverse interactions.

Networking and leadership skills, crucial for building a professional presence, have developed through active involvement in industry events and leadership roles. Lastly, resilience, fostered by learning from setbacks and maintaining a growth-oriented mindset, has proven indispensable in navigating the dynamic landscapes of both law and marketing. These soft skills collectively underpin my ability to thrive in this multifaceted profession.