I read with great interest Tony Roe’s article on starting a firm from scratch. It brought a smile to my face as it brought back memories of when I set up Millan Solicitors in 2004.

As a small private general practice, we have had to adapt quickly to changes in the legal field. We also support flexible working hours and find that this pays dividends. I can’t remember the last time an employee was absent for sickness.

We all do our own typing and administration, so sending dictation to South Africa is avoided. The most important lesson that I have learnt, and one I think Tony Roe has learnt as well, is that leadership is about serving and not controlling. When the receptionist is on holiday, I am the one answering the phones. When the office junior is away I am the one running to the post office with everyone’s post. If you are prepared for these eventualities then you are ready to set up from scratch.

If you are not prepared for this then success will always linger slightly beyond your reach.

Goldie Millan, Millan Solicitors, Bradford