Ajax Strategies

Ajax Strategies works with firms to develop tailored client feedback and satisfaction programs that obtain both candid and constructive insights from clients about myriad issues, including service delivery, potential opportunities, budgets and fees, technology and firm selection to name a few Ajax Strategies then analyzes and presents its findings with action initiatives to capitalize on potential opportunities, improve on disconnects and implement appropriate client follow-up plans

Like all businesses, law firms may face an unexpected crisis that plays out in public In the era of social media and short news cycles, preparing for the worst is a firm’s best strategy to protect and manage its reputation

Ajax Strategies helps law firms assemble and identify a crisis communications team as well as develop a crisis communications plan that includes protocols and a clearly defined media policy

Ajax Strategies also works with firms to create preapproved key messages about the firm in a variety of crisis scenarios

Ajax Strategies works with law firms to establish, build and protect a firm’s reputation and relationships A strong brand is as important for a law firm as it is for its clients A firm must deliver consistent messages about its strengths to differentiate itself from its competitors Ajax Strategies believes in obtaining frank, direct and relevant internal and external feedback to help firms determine their current marketplace position as well as potential opportunities

In addition to conducting internal focus groups and interviewing key clients, Ajax Strategies expands the universe to obtain feedback from lost clients, referral sources, competitors and prospects This broader spectrum of voices provides a more accurate view of the marketplace Ajax Strategies analyzes that feedback and develops clear and concise action plans and strategies that enables firms to capitalize on those opportunities

Firms invest thousands of dollars annually in professional and college sports suites, season tickets and specialty events Additionally, professionals spend hundreds of hours attending these events under the guise of client relations or prospecting For many firms, sports-related expenses rank in the top five of all business development and marketing outlays

How well does your firm strategize, manage and evaluate the ROI from these events? Are the tickets given out to the most senior members of the firm? Maybe they are handed out to those who simply ask? Who are the guests that receive the tickets? Your best clients, prospects or just good friends of the partner asking? Ajax Strategies works with firms to create a system that will not only help better manage who attends your sports-related events, but also effective methods that track the revenue generated from those invitees

Dean Harakas has coached more than 250 lawyers in various practice groups and markets during his career Whether you are a senior or new partner, lateral or an associate, he will work with you to identify practical methods to achieve and exceed your business development goals As a lawyer and a seasoned law-firm strategist, Dean understands the unique challenges of obtaining, retaining and maximizing business development opportunities in legal services

Dean works with lawyers to create and achieve short-term objectives that support long-term goals As the “counselor’s counselor,” he will help you clarify your professional objectives and create a personalized, practical action plan with realistic and measurable goals Dean provides tailored support, direction and encouragement and serves as a sounding board and resource He will work with you to identify and move past roadblocks that are preventing success, while ensuring you stay focused, on-track and accountable for achieving your goals

Dean believes coaching is a one-on-one, not a “one-size-fits-all,” solution that gives lawyers the chance to take control of the future Hiring a coach is a personal decision that requires trust, chemistry and commitment Because of this philosophy, Dean will meet with you face-to-face for an initial complimentary assessment and discussion

Whether you’ve just completed a major merger, acquired a practice group or added lateral partners, integration implementation is the most vital, yet overlooked, aspect of the process Prior to an acquisition, firms spend a great deal of time and energy conducting due diligence, analyzing books of business, determining compensation benchmarks, setting an effective date, and, even, bartering for office space Once the agreement is signed, both sides leave the table believing the bulk of hard work and effort is complete In fact, it’s only just begun, particularly on the business development side, which is the primary driver of most combinations

Ajax Strategies works with firms to create effective and specific business development action plans that ensure firms capitalize on new synergies and maximize marketing opportunities post-integration, including identifying existing and prospective targets, analyzing cross-selling opportunities, leveraging existing relationships as well as developing media and public relations initiatives

Dean is a pioneering and forward-thinking top executive who has worked with numerous professional services firms throughout the United States

With more than 20 years of experience in strategic planning, firm and lateral integration, relationship management, business development, brand/product development, team leading, media relations, and sales support, he has keen insight into the nuances and needs of sophisticated professional services firms

An energetic and dynamic leader, Dean inspires and drives organizations to set challenging goals and works to elevate and exceed those expectations

With a proven track record of successful market entry and business growth in key markets, Dean has demonstrated experience in providing excellent client service while working in several fast-paced environments

Dean is a results-oriented leader who delivers substantial contributions to the long-term success of a business

CHICAGO · DENVER · MINNEAPOLIS