Bailey Cavalieri’s Firm Administrator, Becky Hartman recently contributed to the following article highlighting the essential role that culture plays in a law firm’s success:
LISA MATKOWSKY
A positive workplace culture is key to the success of any company or organization, and law firms are no different. Every firm has its personality, encompassing the shared values, beliefs, and practices that shape the work environment and influencing how lawyers and staff interact. Becky Hartman, Firm Administrator of Bailey Cavalieri, and Inna Simakovsky of Simakovsky Law described the impact of firm culture on attracting and retaining talent, employee engagement and morale, and client relationships.
A healthy culture makes a firm more appealing to prospective employees and helps retain staff. “A supportive and inclusive environment fosters higher employee engagement and morale,” said Hartman. It also positively impacts client relationships by promoting teamwork and effective communication. “When we work to create and sustain a positive culture, we understand that the internal strength we are building directly drives client satisfaction, helps us retain valuable talent, and generally promotes a sense of belonging,” said Hartman. “A law firm’s culture is at the core of building a strong foundation for professional excellence as well as collegial and personal growth. It encourages collaboration over competition, supports the well-being of every team member, and encourages transparency.”
Simakovsky says that firm culture is significant to both new lawyers and seasoned ones. “For the younger generations, it defines who they work for and the structure and mission,” she said. “For the older generation, it is something we need to get used to. Lawyers need to believe in what they do and who they serve.” Hartman agreed that the culture impacts lawyers at every stage of their careers. “Whether you are a first-year lawyer or a seasoned partner, culture shapes your professional experience,” she said. “New lawyers benefit from mentorship where they learn the ‘rules of the road,’ and experienced attorneys thrive in environments that value their contributions and that allow them to do work that suits their unique skills.”
What constitutes a healthy firm culture is a matter of opinion in certain respects. “There is no single definition of a good culture as it’s very personal, “said Simakovsky. I think for the most part, people want to be heard and listened to, and their input to be considered. What is good for one person may not be a good fit for someone else. A good culture presents a good blend of personal and professional goals and ethics.” Hartman thinks there are certain universals. “No two law firms operate in the same way, but a positive law firm culture should always include transparency and open communication across all levels, regular and productive feedback, opportunities for advancement, and professional development, “she said.
Every firm fosters its own unique culture, often developing a distinct vibe that sets it apart from other firms. “We at Simakovsky Law pride ourselves in hiring lawyers who have passion and compassion and understand the personal journeys of our clients, as we are an immigration law firm, and in this current political climate, our clients are scared and want reassurance,” said Simakovsky. At Bailey Cavalieri, there is a deep commitment to community service. “What drives us is that our leadership is strongly rooted in giving back,” said Hartman. “We look for that same ethos when hiring. This philosophy resonates, and people get on board. We are also incredibly collegial; we have a community within the broader community. Every year, we collectively award an impact gift to a non-profit that might not otherwise get off the ground; in alternate years, we ask each team member to choose one that they want to support, and we contribute to it. The culture is giving, both financially and through pro bono time.”
Open communication, a supportive environment, and clear expectations are among the foundations that can reduce turnover, increase productivity, and enhance a firm’s reputation. Whatever the flavor, the culture is key to each firm’s identity.
Lisa Matkowsky is a freelance journalist.
This article first appeared in the Columbus Jewish News and columbusjewishnews.com. Reprinted with permission.