The roles of a Chief Marketing Officer and Chief Business Development Officer in a law firm are more complex than ever. CMBDOs today balance leadership, strategy, client service and innovation, all while guiding teams through constant industry change. Success requires a combination of visibility, collaboration and self-awareness. The following checklist highlights ten practical actions CMBDOs can take to strengthen relationships across the firm, support their teams, maintain focus on personal well-being and continue professional growth. These habits build trust, demonstrate value and ensure the marketing and business development function remains aligned with firm goals and positioned for lasting impact.

Networking

• Engage With Firm Leadership
  • Schedule consistent touchpoints with the managing partner, practice group leaders and office heads to stay aligned with firm priorities.

• Build Peer Connections Within the Firm
  • Partner with finance, HR, IT and risk leaders to strengthen collaboration and avoid silos.

• Network Inside and Outside the Firm
  • Regularly connect with industry peers, alumni, clients and business leaders to share ideas, benchmark practices and raise the firm’s profile.

Team Management

• Hold Inclusive Team Meetings
  • Create space for all voices, rotate who leads discussions and invite cross-functional input.
• Check in Individually With Team Members
  • Use short one-on-ones to stay connected, support career growth and catch challenges early.
• Spotlight the Team’s Wins
  • Publicly recognize contributions, celebrate successes and advocate for resources and professional development.

Continued Growth

• Review Analytics and Metrics
  • Regularly assess marketing and BD performance through campaign ROI, website traffic, media mentions and proposal wins/losses to demonstrate impact and adjust strategy.

Self-Care

• Prioritize Your Well-Being
  • Set boundaries, take breaks and model healthy work habits for your team.
• Take Time for Reflection and Strategy
  • Step back weekly or monthly to assess whether daily work aligns with long-term goals and the firm’s vision.

Invest in Professional Development

• Attend industry conferences, webinars, or workshops to stay current on trends, technology and innovations.