Unless your goal is to build a DIY law firm- at some point you’ll be ready to add staff. Here are a few things you can do now to ensure that when you DO add someone, they are up to speed as soon as possible.
- Create a filing system and naming protocol
- As you work, start allocating a bit of time to create standard forms, templates, etc. If there’s something you do over and over- create a standardized process.
- Likewise, file sample emails that you use over and over again (for example, a welcome email)
- Keep a list of subscriptions and memberships
- Keep a list of vendors and sources
- Make a script for how the phone should be answered
- Create a place where incoming/outgoing mail is organized & routed
- Maintain office supplies in a cabinet and start a checklist for ordering supplies
- Create checklists for office opening/closing, for example, phones, trash handling, kitchen maintenance, lights on/off
- …
You get the idea. The point is to work in a way that is effective now and also puts you in great shape for that time when you begin to outsource or delegate work to someone else.
Too often lawyers are buried by the time they actually do add staff, which makes for a chaotic “trial by fire” experience for the new employee. Keep a process/system perspective from day one; you’ll build a law firm that works better.
It’s Stephen Covey, of course- “begin with the end in mind”. My very favorite habit. Start early. Struggle is optional.
