Law firms of all sizes face a critical threat in the form of escalating duels over top-tier talent. While the practice of lateral recruiting is not new, its agents are increasingly persistent, and the sheer volume of persuasive offers makes the work of lawyer retention more complex — and more important than ever.

Firms seeking solutions to the lawyer-poaching phenomenon would be well advised to look within their own organizations for answers, because the best way to combat the allure of competing offers is to make those offers less alluring from the start. By building a better workplace, with supportive professional development, fair compensation, strong and respected management and a positive culture, firms can insulate themselves against the powerful sway of competing opportunities.