Reflections from my professional experience on the importance of first impressions in the lawyer-client relationship.
In a society where first impressions truly matter — and quoting the renowned Oscar Wilde, “You never get a second chance to make a first impression” — I want to reflect on a fundamental topic in professional relationships: the impact of a first impression and how to ensure it is the right one.
From my perspective, and with fifteen years of professional experience as a millennial lawyer with an old soul, I firmly believe that a first impression stays in the client’s memory and is essential to the development of business relationships. Throughout my career, I have identified three key aspects that can create a positive first impression with a potential client or strengthen the bond with existing ones: being accessible, being dynamic, and being unique.
Being Accessible
The first challenge lies in breaking away from the traditional — and often outdated — notion that lawyers must remain distant and unreachable. In my view, accessibility does not diminish prestige; on the contrary, it gives us a more human character, something that, unfortunately, the public often assumes we lack.
A lawyer should no longer be an inaccessible figure. Being approachable and available can build a stronger bond of trust with clients, offering timely assistance without everything having to follow a strict protocol. A simple example is making a quick call or responding immediately in an emergency. Far from “enslaving” us to the client, these gestures strengthen the lawyer-client relationship and lay the groundwork for genuine trust.
At GLC Legal, our Latin American lawyers apply this principle daily, providing transparent and accessible communication for all clients.
Being Dynamic
The second pillar is remaining dynamic, which means constantly updating our expertise — not only in our specific area of practice but also in the use of technological tools that make communication with clients easier. This combination creates an ideal balance between knowledge — “what we are hired for” — and digital resources that allow us to remain available and respond effectively.
Being dynamic also means adapting to an ever-changing environment, which, in turn, reinforces the perception of professionalism and commitment. For instance, at GLC Legal, our attorneys integrate innovation and efficiency across all practice areas to remain leaders in a rapidly evolving region.
Being Unique
Finally, I consider it essential to be unique. This is where the essence of every professional truly lies. Although our profession is steeped in formality, authenticity can also be expressed through our personal image. In the past, a tailored suit was almost a mandatory standard when meeting with a client. While I enjoy dressing that way, I am convinced that a lawyer’s true essence is not reflected in clothing but in the confidence they project.
Confidence is conveyed when the client perceives authenticity. A polished and self-assured image will always create a strong first impression. However, it must be paired with knowledge and professional judgment, because while a first impression enters through the eyes, it can vanish in seconds if the lawyer lacks expertise. As with everything in life, balance is key: formality, yes — but without disguises.
The Essence of Trust in the Lawyer-Client Relationship
The lawyer-client relationship must be built on a solid foundation, where mutual respect is combined with humanity. At GLC Legal, we have always made sure that these three principles — accessibility, dynamism, and uniqueness — are essential pillars of our service. We strive not only to be an option for our clients but to become their trusted advisors.
Over time, I have learned that a strong first impression, in most cases, leads to positive and lasting results.
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Author: Eugenia Víquez
director@glclegal.com.
