Competing for talent is difficult. It takes a grasp of the big picture and deliberate attention to the details.
The big picture is the firm’s mission and the firm’s bottom line. Every hire takes on specific responsibilities in a role that contributes to profitability, and every hire is a step toward the firm’s business goals. Just as you market the firm to prospective clients, you have to market the firm to talent.
The details:
Share your Firm’s Story
Answer the question directly. Why should a good lawyer want to work at your firm? Your website should help tell that story.
- Build a website that is professional and warm, one that shows the culture, conveys the mission, and tells the stories that support both.
- Link your careers page to your homepage. Make it easy for talent to see what’s available.
Establish a Strong Connection with Law Schools
Build a reputation among future talent.
Involve Current Staff
From entry-level clerks to top attorneys, create a team approach that helps attract talent to your firm.
- Engage your staff. It builds their trust and makes your firm more attractive.
- Obtain staff referrals. They are often a source of desirable talent.
- Involve staff in the interview process. A broader perspective produces a better decision.
Treat Potential Talent Like Clients
You are not simply adding staff. You are selling the firm to people who will build its reputation and its bottom line.
- Compensation and benefits: know what the market is for your talent targets. If you want the best, then be realistic about what that will cost you.
- Sell the firm’s strengths. Be specific about its record, within your jurisdiction’s advertising rules.
- Fit your approach to the position. Attracting attorneys may require different tactics than legal support staff.
- Build a diverse bench. Clients notice, and so do the candidates you want.
Building a strong practice takes drive, goals and commitment, and it takes the talent to sustain growth and reputation. OnBoard Legal connects firms with that talent. Our search consultants are recruiters who know the legal industry. Contact us.