Law Firm Diversity Services
An effective diversity program is critical for law firms concerned with attracting and retaining talented minority and women lawyers and realizing a return on the investment the firm makes in training new associates. It can also be a key differentiator in developing new business from clients who consider diversity commitment in their hiring decisions.
At Altman Weil, we believe that diversity initiatives are strategic, long-term programs. To be successful, these initiatives require full support and participation by the Managing Partner and others in senior management. They require solid planning assumptions based upon detailed, confidential information gathering, a thorough understanding of organizational culture and people, well-articulated goals, measurable objectives, and clearly defined strategies and tactics for implementation.
Altman Weil can assist your law firm in:
Developing Buy-In — Altman Weil will conduct a two-hour presentation with the senior management team to inspire top down support for a major diversity and inclusion initiative.
Assessment and Analysis — Altman Weil will conduct an environmental assessment to learn about the people and culture of your law firm and identify strengths and weaknesses of existing policies and systems. Assessment tools may include a confidential written survey, individual interviews or focus group interviews of lawyers and staff.
Diversity Strategic Planning — We will work with the management team in the development of measurable, ascertainable short and long-term goals. Strategies to accomplish the goals will be defined by “best practices” in the legal industry. Most strategic plans include vital support programs like mentoring programs and work assignment systems, as well as diversity education and training workshops tailored for various members of the firm. In addition to internal initiatives, the plan will include strategies for effective supplier diversity programs and external outreach programs.
- Training Workshops – Altman Weil will work with its training partner to conduct diversity training/education workshops that provide a safe and friendly learning environment.
- Supplier Diversity – We will develop a mechanism to identify diversified suppliers and vendors available to provide services to law firms.
- Outreach Programs – We will assist the firm in its efforts to promote diversity in the legal profession and the business world.
Plan Implementation — Altman Weil is also available to assist you throughout the implementation phase of your new diversity strategic plan and on an ongoing basis as needed.
How You Benefit
Your law firm will be able to recruit, develop and retain a diverse staff of talented professionals. And, by demonstrating a commitment to diversity, you will enhance existing relationships with corporate clients and be positioned to attract new business.
