Stop Pitching, Start Helping This Summer (Minis with Megan)

Business development doesn't have to start with a sales pitch - it starts with a conversation. In this mini episode with Megan Senese, we explore why the most effective networking isn't about selling yourself or asking for work. It's about getting curious, building genuine relationships, and showing up with a simple question: How can I help? Megan shares the outreach strategy that transformed stage's first year of business and offers a simple challenge to help you build meaningful connections this summer. **Who this episode is for:** Lawyers looking for a more authentic approach to business development - Professionals who feel uncomfortable reaching out to new contacts - Anyone who worries networking feels too transactional - People wanting to grow their network through genuine relationships rather than sales **Episode takeaways:** - Business development begins with relationships, not sales - Most people are far more open to connecting than we assume - A simple, thoughtful outreach often works better than a perfectly crafted pitch - Asking "How can I help?" creates stronger, more memorable relationships - Small, intentional conversations today can become opportunities tomorrow **What to do this summer to build your network:** - Reach out to someone new: Invite them to a 15–20 minute virtual coffee or meet-and-greet. - Lead with curiosity: Ask about their work, their interests, and what's keeping them busy. - End every conversation by asking, "How can I help?": You may be surprised by the answer. - Remember what matters to them: Take notes and follow up later on the things they shared. - Plant seeds now: Thoughtful relationships built during slower seasons often grow into meaningful opportunities later. **Stay Connected:** At stage, we believe the strongest business development strategy isn't about selling, it's about building trust one conversation at a time. We help lawyers create relationship-first approaches that feel natural, authentic, and sustainable. The next meaningful opportunity probably isn't waiting in your inbox. Send the note. Start the conversation. Build the relationship. - Learn more about stage - Connect with Megan Senese - Connect with Jennifer Ramsey Love So Much To Say? Let us know! Drop a review, give us 5 stars in your favorite podcast app, and tell us what made you laugh, think, or just go “yep, that’s me.” Every review helps us reach more awesome humans who want to make legal…well, human.