Expanding Beyond the Comfort Zone: A Challenge for IP Professionals

As an intellectual property professional, do you find yourself avoiding business development activities due to discomfort or unease? Perhaps the prospect of engaging in small talk with unfamiliar faces in a crowded room is unappealing. Or, like many others, you might be inclined to shy away from public speaking.

However, it is worth considering that, throughout your career, you have likely already transcended the boundaries of your comfort zone on numerous occasions.

For instance, if you are a patent professional, perhaps you transitioned to IP law from a technical career path. My own journey began in design engineering, and I found my way to intellectual property law by mere chance. This transition was not only a significant professional shift but also involved relocating across the country. Did your career path lead you from the realms of design, research, or academia into intellectual property law?

Such transitions exemplify the expansion of one's comfort zone.

I have encountered colleagues who were once researchers and now serve as patent professionals, as well as former account managers who are now entrusted with overseeing global trademark portfolios.

The Constraining Influence of the Comfort Zone

The periphery of your comfort zone undoubtedly expanded as you accumulated knowledge and experience over time. With the acquisition of experience and practice comes increased confidence, which, in turn, broadens the scope of your comfort zone. Taking on more complex cases, assuming greater responsibilities, and advancing within your role as an IP professional all naturally challenge your sense of comfort.

As you progress, you find yourself completing more tasks independently. Yet, is any work product ever truly flawless in your eyes? Two patent applications drafted by different professionals for the same invention will invariably differ in their approach and execution. Even a subsequent review of your own work may lead to revisions (much to the annoyance of your paralegal, perhaps!).

Reflecting on the first time you signed off on your own work, it is likely that you recall the trepidation of that moment. I know I do! I distinctly remember the first time I signed patent office papers—a task I would have confidently entrusted to a senior colleague, but hesitated to do myself. I was indeed stepping beyond my comfort zone.

Whatever the reason and wherever your comfort boundary lies, you have undoubtedly stretched beyond it to reach your current position. So, why let your progress stop now?

Strategies for Expanding Your Comfort Zone

Consider the next time you hesitate to voice your thoughts due to imposter syndrome or fear of being incorrect. What if you challenged yourself to speak up?

Think about how you might cultivate autonomy within your practice while expanding your client base.

If public speaking is daunting, perhaps you could start by moderating a webinar or hosting a roundtable discussion instead.

Does networking conjure memories of childhood "stranger danger" warnings? Consider participating in smaller or virtual events where you can engage from the comfort of your own environment.

For the Introverted Professional

Networking can be particularly challenging for those who are naturally introverted, as it often requires interacting with strangers. However, practicing by attending smaller events before venturing into larger international conferences can be beneficial. Attending an event with a colleague from a complementary practice area, such as patents and trademarks, might also ease the process. Additionally, virtual events offer the opportunity to engage in networking activities within the safety and familiarity of your own space.

Conclusion

Business development has evolved significantly. Today, there is ample opportunity to approach it creatively, in ways that honor your preferences while still gently pushing the boundaries of your comfort zone.

We know that trying to find time to do business development can be tough. We are here to help you create a personalized business development plan that is tailored to your specific needs. Whether you are a trainee, an associate or a partner, we have a program for everyone.

Interested in learning more?

Email us at [email protected]

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