In this episode of Work from the Inside Out, Tammy Gooler Loeb speaks with Deborah Farone, consultant, speaker, former chief marketing officer at two international law firms, and author of Best Practices in Law Firm Business Development and Marketing and Breaking Ground: How Successful Women Partners Build Thriving Practices. Deborah shares how her fascination with marketing began in childhood and evolved into a remarkable career helping professional service firms strengthen relationships, build trust, and grow thriving businesses.

Deborah reflects on the early experiences that shaped her career path, from creating handwritten job-tracking systems while applying to public relations agencies to persistently pursuing opportunities that aligned with her interests. She discusses how curiosity, authenticity, and a willingness to learn helped her move from public relations into leadership roles at prestigious firms including Debevoise & Plimpton and Cravath, Swaine & Moore. Along the way, she credits strong mentors, meaningful networking, and continuous learning as essential ingredients in her professional growth.

Tammy and Deborah also explore the importance of creating a career rooted in genuine interests and strengths. Deborah shares insights from her consulting work and books, including how professionals can identify the kinds of work that energizes them most, develop authentic client relationships, and navigate career transitions with intention and resilience.

In this week’s Work from the Inside Out podcast, learn more about:

• Why persistence and creativity helped Deborah land her first job in public relations
• How curiosity has been a driving force throughout her career
• The importance of authenticity in leadership and business development
• What Deborah learned from working inside elite professional service firms
• Why strong writing skills can transform a career in communications
• How networking and relationship-building create long-term opportunities
• Why career transitions require both resilience and intentionality
• How professionals can identify the kinds of work that truly energizes them
• Why building trust is essential for sustainable business development
• How Deborah’s consulting and writing career evolved after leaving corporate leadership

Learn more about Deborah:

• Follow Deborah on LinkedIn
• Instagram: @deborahfaronebestpractices
• Learn more deborahfarone.com
• Read: Best Practices in Law Firm Business Development and Marketing
• Read: Breaking Ground: How Successful Women Lawyers Build Thriving Practices

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