Most employees don’t leave jobs. They leave bosses. Employee turnover is costly for law firms. It takes time to post a position, interview candidates, make an offer, train the new hire, and get them settled in. If your firm has frequent turnover, it is worth your time and effort to find out the cause and resolve it. An unstable work force impacts profitability.
Leadership defines the work culture. The culture changes your employees’ perception. Perception creates loyalty. And the clients know the difference between the synergy of a toxic work environment and a positive work environment.
Elements of Leadership
Leadership needs to have three basic core elements:
- Vision to see where the firm is going. Employees must understand the firm’s vision and be assigned goals to help achieve that vision.
- Character that is authentic and transparent. You cannot just say the words…your employees will see right through you. You must embody the core values of your firm. If you have not defined the core values of your firm, start there.
- You must have the ability – and take the time – to engage with all levels of employees within your organization. This includes everyone from your associates to your firm administrator to the file clerk.
Everyone has within them the ability to lead. ‘Natural born leaders’ are a myth. You simply have to decide you want to learn. And the reason you want to learn is to create a profitable, high synergy law firm. A place where employees stay, where the structure is stable, and where clients know that they are getting the best of the best.
Becoming a leader starts with a willingness to change patterns and to gain knowledge. This can be done through mentoring from other leaders, reading books on leadership and/or taking leadership classes. Inaction is the first sign of the lack of leadership in any law firm or, for that matter, in any business. Where does your firm stand?
Ready to lead? Contact Cheryl at cheryl@catalystgroupinc.com to learn more.
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