With just 17 business days left in what has been a rapidly dissolving year, it’s a nose-to-the-grindstone race to the finish for many firms.
Closing the books with confidence is top of mind, of course, but as 2021 draws to a close, the unknowns of the year to come are competing for that top spot in firm leaders’ mental space.
The competition is tough. And it is daunting.
Will our firm be impacted by the “Great Resignation?” Has it already?
Will we be able to retain the professionals in whom we’ve invested? How can we compete?
How can we be sure our associates are getting the mentorship they need?
Should we alter our partnership track? Will our hefty hiring bonuses pay off?
How will we acquire high-quality support staff in an unprecedented hiring market - without altering our entire compensation model?
Is our work-remote policy too tight? Too loose? Is it clear? Is it followed?
Have we maintained the culture we’ve worked so long to create while working remotely? How will returning to the office alter that culture once again?
This may not sound very “Monday Motivating” to you, but that all depends on what you find motivating, and at this moment, comfort and confidence start with awareness.
Knowing is half the battle. Executing solutions is the other. Armor up; the second half is here.
Everyone is asking the same questions, making the same considerations, and facing the same challenges. Not everyone is taking thoughtful, strategic and timely action. Some are even watching and waiting to see what “the other guys do.” Don’t wait. And don’t mimic, unless it absolutely makes sense for your culture and values. Do what is best for your Firm and your people with the guidance of your team and the backing of your leadership.
Bad news does not get better with time. If there are difficult conversations to be had, have them. Humanely. Pointedly. A few minutes of uncomfortable conversation can mitigate an incredible amount of long-term risk and dysfunction and inefficiency. 2022 is at the door, knocking, impatiently waiting, and it appears she will allow no time for such follies.
I’d like to say all tough love aside, but I just don’t believe that serves us in this instant. There are some obvious musts to keep up with Madame New Year:
No matter what your role, you’re only as good as the team you lead. Get the right people. Help them earn their salt. Empower them to do their jobs. Believe in your proven SMEs. You hired them for a reason.
Know when to ask for help. Consultants abound - in many forms. Some decisions require consultation from a peer or mentor or advisor. Some initiatives require consultation and services from a trusted business partner. Invest wisely, and then back the investment.
Build. Relationships. Every. Single. Day. There will be no retention, no mentorship, no culture without genuine, hard-earned relationships. It is much easier to leave a faceless boss than a loyal “comrade.” There will never be enough hours in the day; make the time anyway.
2022 is calling. She’s prepared. She’s quick. She’s nimble. She’s not even through the door and she’s already challenging us to stay one step ahead of her. She’s laced up and ready to run. Ready to win.
Are you?