TMG's Take...on Law Firm Outplacement
A perspective on legal management issues from The McCormick Group.

In its annual associate survey issue, The American Lawyer endeavored to rate the nation’s largest law firms on how well they handled associate layoffs earlier this year. Conspicuously absent from the article was any discussion of how well the firms handled outplacement, or more accurately, transition counseling for those asked to leave.

In talking to a number of associates and partners affected by these layoffs, we were startled by the range and quality of services provided to these unfortunate victims of the recession. Some firms, teaming with some of the better regarded consultants in the field, provided a fairly complete program. But many others provided the barest window dressing. For example, we heard that some firms provided a single group session with so-called outplacement consultants, while others provided one-on-one sessions limited to resume editing and some bare-bones advice on job search strategy.

But services that could have offered real value to the departing associates were often not provided. It should not be overlooked that for many young associates who heretofore had excelled in their entire careers, this was often the first time they had to pound the pavement in search for a job. Consultants should help the associate develop his or her “unique selling proposition,” i.e., legal experience that a firm could use immediately. Another missing piece integral to job hunting strategy is advice in the development of a comprehensive “target list” of firms and corporations that could immediately use their expertise. Beyond the well-known, AmLaw 200 law firms (most of whom are embroiled in their own layoffs), having a counselor who knows midsized regional firms and boutiques is critical. These firms, often overlooked by prime candidates from top law schools, can be the source of unique opportunities in today’s market. But what is most valuable is advising candidates on how to contact firm managers, practice leaders, and in-house counsel, both initially, and in follow-up activities.

Firms are “doing the right thing” by providing outplacement services to their soon-to-be former attorneys. But if this service is limited to initial counseling and overlooks the time-intensive, “proactive” campaign assistance, the chances of these attorneys finding a viable new position will be considerably delayed.

Since the beginning of this year, The McCormick Group has assisted, without a placement fee, attorneys in receiving offers of permanent employment. For more information on TMG’s transition counseling services, contact Steve Nelson at (703) 841-1700, or at snelson@tmg-dc.com.

TMG's Take is a regular e-mail advisory produced by The McCormick Group. The company's Law & Government Affairs and Law Firm Services groups combine the expertise of more than 15 Consultants to help law firms fulfill all of their lawyer and administrative recruiting needs. TMG's Take covers topics across the spectrum of law firm management, including associate and partner compensation, growth strategies, marketing and business development, operations and facilities management, finance and accounting, professional development, and technology. Please direct all inquiries to Steve Nelson, Managing Principal at (703) 841-1700 or snelson@tmg-dc.com.