SwelledHead.com

Lawyers who really "get" transatlantic business

We don’t often imagine that an attorney could be a strategic partner when considering new markets for a product or service, but I’d recommend you think again.  Withers Bergman, a midsize law firm with offices in the US, UK, Italy and Switzerland is a standout; they are great attorneys but what makes the firm a must-evaluate resource for transatlantic marketers is that they really get the business side, too.

I’ve had the opportunity to meet a number of the partners and senior lawyers at the firm, first at its launch event for its handbook for Americans in London (with fantastic pragmatic advice across a wide range of personal, tax, legal and cultural subjects), and then subsequently in pursuit of opportunities for clients and prospects.  Everyone at the firm with whom I spoke or met has strong business acumen and understanding of entrepreneurship to go with their law degrees.  If you’re considering a new venture that crosses borders, I strongly recommend that you consult with Withers before making a move overseas or a major financial or legal decision involving your personal or business affairs .  The advice they offer could be very valuable. 

If you want a copy of its handbook for Americans in London, send an email to dawn.bishop@withers.us.com

How others see us. How we see ourselves.

Each quarter, Director magazine - the publication related to the UK's Institute of Directors - includes the "After Hours" supplement. Brimming with charming advice, such as how the weather impacts the British summer social scene or how to cruise Scotland to find the finest whiskies, the latest issue takes a look at British national identity.

Interesting to SwelledHead was the comparison drawn by how the British see themselves and how they're see by others:

The British see themselves as:                Others see the British as:

Rational and fair minded                          Reactionary and slightly bonkers

Passionate                                               Cold and aloof

Adaptable and accommodating                  Quaint and charming

Humorous                                                Funny

Culturally fragmented                               Civilised and cultured

Polite to a fault                                        Polite to a point of rudeness

Ironically amusing                                     Sarcastic and ridiculing

Understated                                              Ambiguous

Is this a fair or accurate assessment? To my mind, on the whole it would seem to be, but as an invented concept, being British - or indeed "Britishness" - is something that is difficult to define or agree upon. It's an elusive notion that alters with whomever you ask. It's definitely there, and it can be a real moneyspinner both at home and overseas. You may know it when you see it, but you'll never pin it down. Perhaps therein lies its allure.