Ready to help

Ready to help!

‘The best-laid plans o’ mice and men gang aft agley.”

As the above quote from Robbie Burns reminds us that, no matter how much we plan and work, when things go wrong as they are doing, all our planning can be wiped out in an instant.

Like me, most of you reading this will be in some kind of lockdown, no doubt anxious about the impact of COVID-19. But lockdown doesn’t mean shutdown. I have been heartened to hear about the many proactive initiatives being undertaken by firms to ensure safety, security and solvency.

Virtual discussion
One initiative I have undertaken is to facilitate a virtual discussion via Zoom with law firm leaders from firms (generally small to mid-sized) from Australia and New Zealand. My newsletter of 1 April reported some of the highlights from that meeting. Attendees derived a lot of benefit from listening to others and learning about their experiences and have since requested a further meeting on 14 April. Quite a few of my readers (around 15) have since asked to join that meeting. I have accepted them all but in the interests of keeping the groups small, I propose to start a new group should any more people be interested. Simply email me and I’ll get another group going. There is no charge to participate.

How may I help?
Having worked with many firms over the years, I have a vested interest in ensuring firms successfully overcome the challenges ahead. Consequently, if you need an independent offsider/sounding board during this period, I am offering to help in any way I can.

For example,
- If you need an independent moderator during a Zoom meeting with internal or external parties;
- If you want someone to research how other firms are responding overseas; or
- If you are simply looking for ideas on how to best stay afloat!

... then just reply to this email or pick up the phone and let’s have a chat. I realise that 'cash is king' right now, so during this time, I am working on a ‘not-for profit’ basis. That means, for new work, I am waiving my normal fees and am happy to accept anything from a bottle of wine to a modest honorarium to suit your circumstances! You decide.

Together we will get through this.

Kia kaha!