The pandemic has forced an industry steeped in tradition to change very quickly in a short amount of time, and law firms are now grappling with how to manage a hybrid workplace. Numerous articles and surveys point to the fact that attorneys, especially associates, seek flexibility and the opportunity to work remotely. With competition to hire and keep talent at an all-time high, firms are faced with offering that flexibility or being hard pressed to hire/keep associates. But does that flexibility come at a price? What are we missing when we’re not in the office?

While many people enjoy the flexibility of working from home, the byproduct is often a loss of firm culture and the ability to mentor and train younger attorneys. In the wake of the “Great Resignation,” some reported reasons for attorneys moving on included feeling underappreciated and a lack of progression in their career. The conundrum of ensuring associate needs are met when so few are in the office is not lost on firm leaders. While the hybrid workplace is likely here to stay, consider these reasons why attorneys should want to spend some quality time in the office.

Better Mentoring and Training