Talent issues top small firm concerns in 2017

Smaller outfits are also most concerned about technology disruption and business operations

Talent issues top small firm concerns in 2017
Smaller Australasian law firms are most anxious about talent issues, a new survey has revealed.

Asked what three issues most concerned their firms in 2017, 62% of surveyed firms said they were most anxious about recruitment, retention, motivation, and restructuring, the Law Society said, citing data from a survey conducted by New Zealand-based practice management consultant Simon Tupman.

The survey, which was conducted in February and March, involved 29 small law firms in New Zealand and Australia. The participating firms had an average number of seven partners, with 59% having five or fewer partners. Among those who participated, 55% serve commercial clients and 81% serve private clients.

The survey found that the next most concerning issues for the firms were related to technology, particularly disruption and adoption, with 28% indicating the issue. Third related to business operations, particularly business development, boosting profitability, and reducing overheads and costs.

Smaller Australasian law firms also said they are worried about succession, growth and expansion, partner remuneration, commoditisation, and cybercrime.

A majority of the participating firms also indicated that in recent months, they have considered mergers or have been approached or have approached other firms for a possible combination.

The survey found that 62% considered merging with other firms and 60% have been courted or have courted other firms. However, only 10% said mergers were “almost definite” and 46% said that the possible mergers had “little likelihood” of materialising.


Related stories:
Study: Law firms uncertain of return on marketing investment
In-house counsel shouldn’t expect a big pay bump this year

Recent articles & video

EU FTA ratified as legislation gets Royal Assent

Domain Legal principal urges lawyers to 'stay curious'

Lawyer accused of pressuring dementia-stricken mum into granting him power of attorney

Corcoran French expands partnership with seasoned solicitor

NZ legal professionals mourn lawyer's death in Sydney car accident

Standards committee finds unsatisfactory conduct in senior lawyer's comment to junior staff

Most Read Articles

Tauranga firm brings in new senior solicitor

Standards committee finds unsatisfactory conduct in senior lawyer's comment to junior staff

NZ legal professionals mourn lawyer's death in Sydney car accident

Lawyer accused of pressuring dementia-stricken mum into granting him power of attorney