Pedicures, cocktail-making lessons and goodie bags are all part of the eclectic range of means used by Eversheds law firm to build closer links to its clients.

All these activities and gifts have featured in networking programmes that the firm has arranged between its secretaries and those of its corporate customers. In 2004, the two groups of women – and one man – came together for a “pamper evening” of beauty treatments, including manicures, facials and makeovers. Last year they met again for an event in which they learned how to “work with different spirits, soft drinks, juices and fruits”.