Legal support professionals fulfill many of the essential tasks of running a successful law firm or legal department. Many of them work hard to hone their skills and know what their experience and dedication are worth.
Yet legal support staff, like all staff members, can benefit greatly from employee recognition programs that reward them for outstanding work. Here’s how:
Recognition improves retention.
Top legal support staff members know their value, and they know that they can find an employer who recognizes how they contribute to the firm or department. When these staff members receive confirmation that you know and appreciate their value, they are more likely to stay with the team, developing their skills within the context of your organization’s practice and contributing their abilities to your clients and goals – not to those of your competitors.
Recognition promotes motivation, empowerment, and inclusion.
When legal support staff are recognized for a job well done, they’re more likely to put in the effort to produce similar results in the future. They’re likely to approach their work with more enthusiasm and to volunteer suggestions to the legal team when a tough problem arises. Because legal support staff spend much of their time researching the legal nuances surrounding a client’s case, their insight can be invaluable – and regular recognition of their successes creates an environment in which those insights are shared, rather than suppressed.
Recognition can be low or no cost.
One of the most effective forms of employee recognition costs the company nothing: It’s simply saying (or writing) a heartfelt “thank you.” Extending this appreciation in front of other staff members also shares the goodwill and demonstrates to everyone involved that the organization notices good work and appreciates it. Other low- or no-cost options include flexible scheduling with room for time off after a big project is finished; a gift card for lunch or dinner at a local restaurant; or an article in the company or law firm newsletter.
At Kent Legal, our experienced recruiters can help you find the legal support talent you need to thrive in the Toronto area. Contact us today to learn more.