Is 2014 your year to be trendy? Mining data to track trends is your key to success.

• Position: CHECKLIST

Although the United States is a leader in professional services, we face increased competition from many outlets. Competitive pressure will continue for U.S. law firms, especially from the United Kingdom, Australia and China. Do your research and follow the legal marketing numbers. What does your analysis tell you? Are you doing what you need to do to succeed? Determine how to be or stay competitive in our ever-competitive marketplace by exploring some marketing trends in 2014.

* Teamwork is Good:

Teamwork? What about the decades-long preference for autonomy? Autonomy is so yesterday. Firms that are able to successfully train their attorneys to work as a team (or in teams), and not as soloists, will ascend the ladder of success. Teamwork benefits lawyers and firms--it is the easiest of all marketing strategies.

* Re-Educate Yourself to Become Industry Knowledgeable:

Take the time to know your client's industry. Clients expect their attorneys to understand their business--how it functions and ticks. Read about it. Speak about it. Listen to the experts. Hire industry professionals that complement your client's industry.

* Efficiencies Increase Your Overall Worth:

Increase your firm's efficiency and overall worth to your client by using technology as a marketing tool. Leverage technology to produce a product for your client quickly, more efficiently and with better quality. You look good, your client looks good and everyone wins.

* Negotiate Yourself into a Relationship:

Providing...