Jason Portman is a retired Director of Operations and an
attorney specializing in criminal defense, business operations and marketing.
Portman’s business background helped him incorporate different legal marketing
drifts to attract prospects and talents. The strategies include: investing in
the right content, transforming the law office website, managing the law firm
reputation and tracking performance metrics. Owing to his extensive experience
in the legal profession, Portman has worked in several law offices spread
across the southeastern region of the US.
One of his most successful client firms is based
in downtown Tampa, FL. The law firm specializes in Criminal Defense Law,
Divorce and Family Law and Driving Under Influence (DUI) Law. As a criminal lawyer in Tampa, he
stood for justice by defending individuals and companies facing investigations,
charges and sentencing. He has also advised many clients involved in civil
litigation and other legal proceedings. Portman attributes his streak of
successful in criminal defense to extensive trial experience and personalized
approach to defense matters.
How did you get started in business? What prompted you to start the business?
Immediately after graduating from law school
with a law degree, I took up the position of junior attorney at a law firm in
Florida. My decision to practice law was informed by an inner desire to see
justice and pursue a rewarding career.
When you started, was there such as a time when you doubted your career decisions? If so, how did you go about it?
The legal practice is just as competitive as any
other profession or business. The challenges in the industry include regulation
and compliance and competition from low cost legal providers. To overcome these
challenges, I decided to set myself apart by devising a multi-prong approach
that involved enhancing my professional profile and expanding the range of
legal services.
Other than referrals, what single marketing strategy do you think has been instrumental in generating new business?
Marketing a law firm is slightly different
compared to business. The one marketing strategies that have consistently
worked for me is networking with local businesses, charities and
partners.
Looking at the last few months, what is the toughest decision you’ve had to make?
That would be the decision to promote a staff
from a great field of candidates. It was a tough decision because I wanted to
come off as confident, rational and a capable decision maker.
What makes you successful?
Successful lawyers need intelligence and a
combination of skills, including effective communication and strong analytical
and advocacy skills. Besides these qualities, I attribute my success to the
ability to build lasting relationships with clients and local
organizations.
Please tell us your most satisfying moment in business?
As a defense attorney serving in Tampa, Florida,
I once presented a client whose customer refused to pay for delivered goods.
The customer denied ever receiving the huge consignment. I did thorough
research behind the scenes and obtained all the necessary documentation from
the bill of lading to receipts from delivery trucks and rested my case. The
case was ruled in our favor and the client was so grateful.
What does the future hold for your business? What are you excited about?
Practicing law affords me the opportunity to
work flexible hours, practice in diverse areas and more importantly, help those
in need. I see a promising future ahead as I continue to help organizations,
groups and individuals requiring legal assistance and advice.
What business book has inspired you?
My favorite motivational book is “the
Alchemist” that analyses the importance of growing up under the mentorship
influence.
What decision have you made recently that benefited your business?
Not long ago, I crafted strategies to revamp the
online infrastructure of the law firm. The efforts were crucial in enhancing
the firm’s online footprint. The long drawn effort covered video marketing,
local SEO and social media.
What is one attribute you contribute to your success?
Consistency
What’s your advice to an individual looking to go into business?
My advice to you is learning how to set
realistic expectations and instill a great attitude at your work. While at it,
treat your seniors and subordinates with decorum.
What one thing are you still learning to do better?
One thing I am still learning is policing the social media as a strategy to safeguard my reputation.