It’s exciting to know that The Lattice Group isn’t the only place that’s concerned with the humane aspect of working life. On Nov. 22 in the “Business” section of The New York Times , Lynnley Browning writes how law firms are upping the ante on providing attractive perks to associates and partners, “‘Money is not the only thing that drives these lawyers right now,’ said Marina Sirras, who runs a recruitment firm in New York for lawyers. ‘They want to be able to have a family and enjoy their family.’”

And it’s all about us. The young talent, that is. Established law firms with longstanding traditions of schooling associates from the bottom all the way up to partnership, are now facing the reality of costly turnover rates as youngsters expect, and demand, more, “'We’re in a war for talent', Gary Beu, chief human resources officer at the firm of Kirkland & Ellis, said, “'and we have to do everything we can to attract and retain that talent.'” That includes providing all kinds of services ranging from counseling to specialty wines at office parties. As Marina Sirras reinforces, “‘This has never been as hot an issue.’”

But the hot comes with the cold. Though you’re more likely to find a “nap room,” a masseuse and a personal concierge at the office nowadays, you’re also more likely to be expected to clock longer hours. Browning writes, “At the same time, law firms have begun demanding more from associates, raising minimum billable hours over the years.” What young lawyers are essentially getting, then, is more motivation to stay balanced in the office rather than the ability to get balance in their lives. Because no matter how “cushy” the desk-chair is, are you really willing to make it your life? Thumbs up to humane policies at work, but we’d also love to see some more considerations for having a human life— outside the office.

- Astri 

photo by confusedvision on Flickr under creative commons license . 

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Readers have left 3 comments.

 3. Untitled
Guest User, Unregistered

can we all grow up and stop referring to ourselves as youngsters? last time i checked someone in his or her mid-twenties--the age one might actually be a lawyer--was considered an adult.

 Posted 2007-12-06 19:37:58

 2. Untitled
Guest User, Unregistered

I AGREE

 Posted 2007-12-06 00:50:34

 1. Untitled
Guest User, Unregistered

i love this!

 Posted 2007-11-28 16:47:40

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