Want to Build a Better Law Firm? Start With an Attorney Engagement Survey

Attorney engagement is the engine that powers law firm success. When lawyers feel connected, supported, and invested in their work, the entire firm benefits—from higher retention and productivity to stronger client relationships and a more vibrant culture. But how can firms truly understand what drives engagement and where improvement is needed? The answer lies in running a thoughtfully designed attorney engagement survey.

Why Run an Attorney Engagement Survey?

An engagement survey provides a structured, confidential way to assess how attorneys feel about their work, their teams, and the firm as a whole. It reveals both strengths to celebrate and pain points to address—giving leadership the insights needed to make meaningful change.Key Elements to Measure in Your SurveyTo gain a comprehensive picture of engagement, your survey should include questions and diagnostics across these core areas:

1. Competency and Skills Development
   • Are attorneys satisfied with opportunities for technical, business development, leadership, and client service skill-building?
   • Do they have access to self-assessment tools, 360-degree feedback, and peer evaluation?
2. Career Growth and Planning
   • Are individual development plans (IDPs) encouraged and supported?
   • Do attorneys feel they have clear career pathways, goal-setting resources, and opportunities for advancement?
3. Firm Culture and Values
   • Do attorneys feel a sense of belonging and alignment with the firm’s mission and values?
   • Is the environment collaborative, inclusive, and supportive of well-being?
4. Leadership and Mentorship
   • Do attorneys have access to mentors, sponsors, and effective leadership?
   • Are feedback and recognition part of the daily culture?
5. Work-Life Balance and Well-being
   • Are workloads manageable, and is there support for maintaining a healthy work-life balance?
   • Do attorneys feel comfortable discussing stress and seeking help when needed?
6. Technology and Resources
   • Are learning management systems, talent management software, and other development tools accessible and user-friendly?
   • Do attorneys feel equipped with the resources needed to succeed?
7. Communication and Transparency
   • Are firm goals, advancement criteria, and feedback processes clear and transparent?
   • Do attorneys feel their voices are heard and valued in firm decision-making?

Turning Insights Into Action

Collecting data is only the first step. The real power of an engagement survey comes from acting on the results:

• Share Key Findings: Communicate what you’ve learned with the entire firm, demonstrating transparency and trust.
• Develop Action Plans: Create targeted initiatives to address areas of concern—whether it’s more mentorship, better technology, or clearer career pathways.
• Track Progress: Use follow-up surveys and progress dashboards to monitor improvements and keep engagement efforts on track.
• Celebrate Successes: Recognize teams and individuals who contribute to a positive, engaged culture.

Running an attorney engagement survey is more than a box-ticking exercise—it’s a strategic investment in your firm’s future. By assessing engagement across skills development, career growth, culture, leadership, well-being, technology, and communication, firms can identify what’s working and where to focus their efforts. The result? A more engaged, motivated, and loyal team of attorneys—ready to drive the firm’s success for years to come.

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