Are You an Outlaw? Meet Lee Watts

Who has redefined what it means to think outside the law (aka OUTLAW) and is helping each of us in the process?

Meet Lee Watts, Chief Marketing Officer at Smith, Gambrell & Russell LLP where she is responsible for the marketing, advertising and business development. She works closely with the attorneys to develop and implement business development plans for practices, industries and offices.

Lee has more than 18 years of legal marketing experience. Her experience includes developing and implementing business development plans, client feedback and interviews, building industry and client teams, developing strategic sponsorship programs, client and industry research, social media, public relations and event planning. She is a former board member for Legal Marketing Association Southeast, former VP of Public Relations for Toastmasters and she served on the marketing and PR committee for the Partnership Against Domestic Violence, as well as on the board at Morehouse School of Medicine (Community Advisory Board). Lee enjoys community service and public speaking.

We asked Lee a few questions, and her answers can be found below. Enjoy getting to know this Outlaw!

Q: Where would you like to live?
A: My two favorite cities are Barcelona (Spain) and Toronto (Canada). Both cities have so much culture and diversity. I am hoping one day life I will be blessed with an opportunity to work remotely from anywhere in the world (WFA – work from anywhere). When that time comes, I will certainly be in one of these cities.

Q: What is your motto?
A: My motto is “Ready is a lie.” I’ve stolen this from other leaders and speakers, but the meaning of this helps me to overcome so many things personally and professionally. Waiting for those moments of perfection or when everything fits, can hinder us and hold us back. Often we learn the most when we move forward and figure out things while we are building it. People love authenticity and if you let people know (within reason) that we are figuring this out as we go, many people are open for the journey.

Q: What is your greatest fear?
A: My greatest fear is mediocrity. I want to be known for something and have a great impact on someone or something. I believe we are put here on Earth for a purpose. My fear is to die without living that out.

Q: What is your current state of mind?
A: My current state of mind is hopeful. It has been a difficult past 12 months. I have often felt myself holding my breath or sitting with a tense body or quite frankly in tears with the so much tragedy and sadness around me. But with conflict are also opportunities for great change and clarity. I am beginning to see that in my life and in my work environment. I am hopeful for the future.

Q: Your favorite virtue?
A: Gratitude. It impacts every area of our lives. Once we make this part of our DNA, we are destined for great things.

Q: Who would you have liked to be?
A: I actually like being me. She’s pretty cool!