The question.

• Jurisdiction: United States
• Date: 01 July 2013
• Author: Hirsch, Stewart

"My department is expected to contribute to top line revenue growth, yet we are distracted from high-impact activities by things like partners needing brochures and bio changes. How do I move my role to a strategic one so we can make a greater contribution to the firm's revenue growth?"

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Aleisha Gravit

We will always have to perform lower impact activities. When you have to do them, just get it done. However, to avoid making those types of activities your department's key function, ask yourself about each project: "Does this justify the amount of the firm's resources required?" Your response can lead to the conversation you want to have with the firm leaders as to whether you are prioritizing their resources in a way that will help them the most.

How can you help from a strategic perspective? Start there. Make a list of ways you can make a difference and share it. When you can show the partners how you can add value strategically, you will be able to have a more fruitful conversation about how...