Solosez

I have written in the past about Solosez and how it can be a great resource. I took some time away from Solosez, but am back on it now. What benefits do you get from solosez? Here are my top 5:

1. Friends. I have met a lot of good friends on solosez. Its always a good thing!
2. Learning new practice areas. There are a lot of posts, but you can always pick up something in a new practice area. Or, if you have started a new practice area, there is someone who will have tips to help you.
3. A virtual water cooler. Okay, so this may not always be a positive, but you do get a chance to talk about current events, jokes, etc... just like if you had colleagues in an office. Of course, if you read too many of these, you may not get your work done.
4. Service provider locator. You can find an expert or a process server anywhere in the country (and probably the world) with a short post to solosez.
5. Technology abounds. The folks on Solosez have more ideas about technology and how to use it than any other group I have been around. You may need to even get out a book on technology to understand some of what they talk about!

Solosez is not perfect. But, if you are a sole practitioner, it is a good way for you to get up to speed, make some contacts and provide a service to your clients by expanding your capabilities.

Comments

[Elizabeth Gloger]

Friends would make the top of my list, too...

The ability to get quick (but surprisingly detailed) answers on topics that would might require a great deal of time and research (specific law from other states, or clarification on specialties like estate planning, tax or real estate to help with the "big picture" on your own case when it's not your field.)

I think it is also beneficial that non-lawyers in the legal field like me (the law student, paralegal, administrators, legal technology professionals, etc.) are welcomed to Solosez and can share their unique perspectives as well.

The level of cameraderie, versus competitiveness, is also key to Solosez. Almost without fail, the goal among members seems to be helping grown practices, with people sharing information on setting up shop, picking the best software, finding clients that won't drive you insane, best practices, how to handle courtroom You really get a sense that we want our listmates to succeed. I find that to be a rare thing in the business world at large.

Of course, there's the perk of getting quick answers to things not related to law (take your pick, from help with a sick pet to how to choose the best cast iron pan) It's a surprise Solosez benefit, but one I wouldn't trade!

[Ted Waggoner]

Don't be too exclusionary. Solosez also wants small firm lawyers, not just solos. Whatever you consider small firm is what is invited. But there are over 3400 on the site already. Set up your separate web-based mail account, don't dump it in your business email account. Try it out for a few days and see.