Running a regional business can be a challenge. And it’s one that Jacqui Brauman takes on as she runs her regionally-based law firm, Theobald Lawyers. Jacqui bought the Nagambie-based law firm in 2012, which had been located in the area for over 35 years. Since, the firm has grown to double it’s size. The firm currently focuses on six legal areas – property law, wills and estate planning, small business, commercial litigation, family law and criminal law. Jacqui initially decided to start her own firm, as opposed to getting hired at an existing one, because she liked the idea of being her own boss and the growth and freedom that comes with it. Jacqui partially uses technology to overcome her firm’s distance barrier. Cloud-based technology has helped her and her staff immensely in being able to work from anywhere. Her entire staff also links their mobile phones to the main office so they’re able to communicate with clients from virtually anywhere. Skype has also been a valuable communication tool. Jacqui also uses community involvement to network and market her firm. She is involved in the chamber of commerce and a local action group. She also writes for the local paper and makes donations to local events.
Though Jacqui was worried about overcoming sexism, she’s found that most people have been receptive to her skill and effectiveness and haven’t doubted her abilities. Jacqui’s found that the Australian Businesswomen’s Network’s mentoring services have been helpful in growing her business and overcoming challenges. She appreciates that she doesn’t have to travel much in order to get quality advice. She’s also taken advantage of the Australian Businesswomen’s Network’s online courses in marketing. Jacqui’s advice to women looking to start a business in a regional or rural area is: “Link into your network first and foremost – particularly through a school or community group. Make sure you have a support network available, whether they are local or via phone. Get good IT support.” This post was co-authored by Courtney Sweeney. Courtney is currently completing a journalism internship at the Australian Businesswomen’s Network. She studies journalism, political science, and public relations at Michigan State University in the United States.
