When I hung out my shingle in 2014, I had one client, a box of business cards, and a lot of determination. I called my firm “Law Office of Stacy J. Grossman” and gave myself two years to build a practice.
I knew that about 20% of small businesses fail within the first year, and 70% fail within the first 10 years. Not very good odds. I quickly learned that to thrive, I’d have to hustle. It took a bit of time to figure out how to market my services in a way that felt authentic to me.
From 2014-2016, I took pretty much everyone I knew out for lunch or a drink, so I could talk to them one-on-one. My father once told me that we have two ears and one mouth, so should do twice as much listening. I took those words to heart – I learned about clients’ and colleagues’ businesses and needs, and received invaluable advice from many mentors. I also developed content for my website, accepted speaking engagements, attended networking receptions, and became an active member of INTA (the International Trademark Association).
Against the odds, my firm grew. At the two-year mark, I had a busy practice serving a great list of clients. Over the years, I learned how to hire employees, oversee payroll, review profit and loss statements, manage a growing docket, and pivot to remote work during a pandemic. Sometimes I wondered whether I’d be better off joining a firm so I could focus on practicing law. But as my business grew, I discovered that my passion for helping clients build their brands extended to building my own brand. I take immense pride in my clients, my team, and the work that we do, but also truly enjoy the business of law.
As I enter my second decade as a law firm owner, I’m proud to share that my firm is rebranding. The Law Office of Stacy J. Grossman will from now on be known as SGIP. The change is a signal to clients and colleagues that we are way more than just a solo practice – we’re a growing team of strong lawyers and staff. We’re a proud woman-owned firm that provides skilled counsel and excellent service to a diverse client base. We’re our own brand.
I am grateful to the clients and colleagues who trust us with their important work, to my team Samantha Butler, Briguitte Barrera and Theresa Caruso, and to everyone who has supported this remarkable journey over the years.
-Stacy
