Heather Rooney McBride, Esq.

Mentoring Female Owners, Lawyers

One of the biggest challenges female leaders face is how to find balance. I have learned that in order to have time and energy for family and myself, I must delegate and accept help. Leaning on the highly capable people on my team enables me to focus on the business that requires my personal attention.

I have also learned that no one will care about your business as much as you do. An owner’s investment is very personal and the drive to do everything possible to make it a success will not be shared by all of your employees. But if you foster an environment where employees respect and inspire one another, then they will become passionate about what they are doing for you and your clients.

The practice of law remains a bit behind as far as gender equality, and there are only a few managing partners of law firms in this area who are women. Providing mentorship to young female attorneys and young women who aspire to the practice of law is one of the ways I try to pay forward the advice and mentorship moments that more experienced female attorneys once provided to me.

I have learned that rules are important, but flexibility is key. As an attorney, I like order and routine, but navigating unique employee situations in a way that helps the employee while still maintaining efficacy of the business as a whole will engender loyalty from your entire team.

Heather Rooney McBride, Esq.

Managing Member

Rooney McBride & Smith, LLC

rmsattorneys.com

417-708-9681