We have all heard the statement that people leave their manager rather than the company. Many of us in human resources roles have spent countless hours thinking about how to develop the qualities in our leaders to combat this.
In terms of a law firm, here are the top 5 qualities we should seek to develop in our partners – what makes a partner someone your young lawyers won’t want to leave?
1. A good leader is not afraid of being wrong
Imagine a partner who will readily acknowledge that their junior lawyer, while adopting a different view to his or her own, is correct? They would be a genuine and authentic leader.
2. A partner who listens more than they speak
The importance of active listening cannot be underestimated. Imagine a partner who asks lots of questions, including ones about what the junior needs to be better, more productive, more efficient, more satisfied in their job.
3. A partner who supports a positive work culture
A partner who develops a culture of respect, where bullying and gossip are not tolerated; where the focus is on mutual respect, collaboration and teamwork. They lead by example.
4. A partner who appreciates the individual and the team
A great partner doesn’t want the glory for themselves. This partner praises the team, celebrates their success and acknowledges the individual contributions.
5. A partner who is quietly confident in their own ability
Sufficient to instil a level of confidence in them, but not so much as to overpower and control.
Partners who display these qualities will be respected as leaders and liked as people. Their juniors will enthusiastically stay and their teams will be successful and productive.
Susan Comerford is a senior human resources executive with particular strengths in strategic human resource management, business structures, law practice development and operational management. She consults to clients of Burgess Paluch on an hourly, daily or project basis. To discuss our Human Resources Consulting services for law firms contact Susan Comerford or Paul Burgess on 03 8676 0372 or via [email protected]