In our Ask a Recruiter feature, a member of specialist team tackles a topic relating to attraction, recruitment and retention.
In this edition, Associate Director Kelly Reid gives her advice to an owner of a boutique law firm struggling to recruit the senior talent who will form an important part of their exit strategy.
“I set up our firm twenty years ago and I’m starting to think about succession planning ahead of my retirement in five years. We’re having trouble recruiting senior solicitors that will mean that I can step back with confidence.
What can we do to attract the more experienced lawyers we’re looking for?”
Succession planning is a key challenge for many firm owners, especially as they approach retirement. Recruiting senior solicitors who can take on leadership roles and safeguard the firm’s future is crucial. From our annual research at Realm Recruit, we’ve gathered insights that can help your specialist private client firm attract the right talent.
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Offer a Clear Path to Leadership
Senior solicitors are often attracted to firms that provide a clear progression route. Legal professionals at this level value leadership opportunities and the chance to influence firm strategy. Highlighting the potential for future partnership or leadership roles from the start can make your firm more appealing to candidates looking for long-term stability.
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Prioritise Flexibility and Work-Life Balance
While less of a priority for lawyers generally, flexibility and work-life balance are still very important for more experienced lawyers. Offering hybrid working options or part-time roles can set your firm apart from competitors and attract senior solicitors who may have caring responsibilities or simply value a better work-life balance.
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Foster a Positive Firm Culture
The culture of a firm can be a significant factor in attracting senior talent. A collaborative, supportive environment, where experienced solicitors feel valued, can be a strong draw. According to our findings, professionals are increasingly looking for firms that align with their values and offer a positive working atmosphere.
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Showcase Specialisation and Expertise
As a private client law firm, you have the advantage of specialising in a specific area. Experienced solicitors often seek roles in firms where they can hone their expertise further. Highlighting your firm’s reputation, quality of work, and the calibre of your client base can make your firm attractive to senior solicitors who want to build on their specialism and become the go-to lawyer within their niche.
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Partner with a Specialist Legal Recruiter
Finally, partnering with a specialist legal recruiter, like Realm Recruit, can give you access to a broader pool of senior legal professionals. We can help you identify candidates who align with your firm’s culture, goals, and values, ensuring you bring on board solicitors who will enable you to step back with confidence.
If you’d like to learn more about how we can help you find the talent that will allow you to leave your law firm in capable hands, get in touch. Give me a call on 03300 245 606 or email kelly.reid@realmrecruit.com.
