Links seeks client input as it overhauls flexi-working policy
Linklaters is to launch a client forum to help develop a best practice approach to work-life balance issues at the firm.
The firm has identified several clients with a view to putting together regular meetings with partners later this year as it looks to put in place flexible working procedures for its lawyers.
Last year, the firm carried out a global engagement survey initiated by head of HR Jill King, sparking a review of its flexible working policy. The survey also prompted the introduction of a firmwide mentoring service and a confidential counseling service.
Client discussions will be led by employment partner Gillian Chapman and will feature partners from across the practice areas.
Fellow magic circle firm Freshfields Bruckhaus Deringer launched a pilot scheme last year to allow for flexible working in its corporate team (15 July 2010), led by City corporate head Mark Rawlinson.
Readers' comments (4)
Anonymous | 31-Mar-2011 7:52 pm
With sky high law firm rates, clients do not care about work life balance at their Magic Circle firms. They care about getting their highest priority matters handled expeditiously by top quality lawyers. I just think clients to not care how firms manage their work forces.
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Anonymous | 1-Apr-2011 9:52 am
Is this Links getting its April's Fool story in early??
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Anonymous | 1-Apr-2011 11:06 pm
The internal processes of a law firm, especially when it comes to the particular structure of employment contracts and flexible working schemes for the employees, should, in my opinion, be managed internally. Clients care about the end result and the fees which they have to dish out for any given deal/case. I know that Links are famous for the level of attention awarded to the clients and that may sometimes be a great thing; however, when it comes to flexible working, if anything, it should hold a consultation with its employees and not the clients. Staff morale matters a lot and the firm should see flexible working for what it is - a way to help its employees to have a better work/life balance.
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IHateBPP | 4-Apr-2011 1:08 pm
We shouldn't forget that these are the same firms that think their clients demanded they open new sausage factories in Belfast with rock bottom salaries to save a few pennies.
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