PC: 400 North Creative
Summer Ott Dierks, a Manhattan-area attorney, has always been an active member of the Manhattan community. But she might not always have considered herself an entrepreneur. While working in a long-term partnership with two other attorneys, Summer dove into various roles within the Manhattan Area Chamber of Commerce. She considered opening her own firm, but she credits her relationships within the Chamber that gave her the courage to finally take the leap. “I have developed several very important relationships with other community members who were able to give me guidance and strength to move forward with my decision.” In June 2021, Summer opened Dierks Law Firm.
When establishing her new firm, Summer wanted to communicate to her new clients that they would be fully supported. “The mission of our firm is to advocate for our clients to the best of our ability while upholding the highest moral and ethical standards.” Her community connections helped her to begin with a strong client base as well. “Because I am so involved in the community, it seemed easy to grow relationships and as a result, trust, amongst new clients,” says Summer.
Knowing that clear financial projections are key to a strong foundation, Summer turned to her banker to help her in the planning and forecasting stages for her business. “My banker was a key resource,” says Summer. “He is knowledgeable as it relates to financial planning and forecasting for a startup, and he was able to talk me through many scenarios in order to best prepare for the future of my company.”
Summer speaks at a Business After Hours event at Manhattan Brewing Company, hosted by Dierks Law Firm. PC: 400 North Creative
Summer found that research and networking were key to developing a healthy business, and she advises fellow business owners to enter the entrepreneurial journey prepared. “Educate and prepare yourself for the opening of a new business. Write out the pros and cons of your next move so that you are prepared for what might come your way.”
She continues by sharing her love for the Manhattan community, “Manhattan is a wonderful small town with some of the most genuine people I have ever encountered. The community members here care about each other’s success. It’s very important to grow a network that you trust to reach out to with questions and receive support. The Chamber is, of course, the easiest way to do that.”
PC: 400 North Creative
Learn more about Summer’s firm, her team and areas of practice at her website.
Learn more about how joining an area Chamber of Commerce near you to see how involvement can benefit your business. Learn more at the Chamber in your city: Manhattan Area Chamber of Commerce, Junction City Area Chamber of Commerce, Wamego Chamber of Commerce, Westmoreland Chamber of Commerce, Onaga Chamber of Commerce, and St. Mary’s Chamber of Commerce.
