Loyalty
DEFINITION
Being engaged and committed to the organization and to the client
WHAT IS IT?
Loyalty is a commitment to one’s client as well as to the organization, a commitment that is not abated by any other responsibilities or relationships. Loyal lawyers speak kindly and fairly about clients or co-workers, even when those parties are not present. In addition, they scan for any personal or professional conflicts of interest that may stop them from performing the best possible services.
WHY IS IT IMPORTANT?
Clients are very aware of who is loyal and who isn’t. They know who is trustworthy and committed, and will often avoid attorneys that seem to put themselves, rather than their practice or their clients, first. To become a returning customer, clients need to feel the firm’s loyalty towards them. Loyal lawyers keep conversations private, avoid conflicts of interest, and are faithful to their commitment despite any client flaws they may uncover. They can be trusted with confidential information and important responsibilities.
Suggestions for Improvement
- Put the Client First
Be loyal from the beginning by thinking about your client first, even from the very beginning! Confirm that you can take on the case before making a commitment to it. This means making sure that your office has no conflicts, that you can build in the time, and that you are mentally, logistically, and emotionally prepared for the case that is coming your way. Are you available to provide them with the best possible service? Can you and your firm make a commitment to their case that is not harmed by any other constraints you may have? - Speak Constructively of Others
Second, let the way you speak about others embody your loyalty. In an effort to bond with clients, some attorneys trash talk someone who is not in the room. While it might engender a sense of comradery in the short term, it will sabotage your name in the long run. Clients want to see that the firm or attorney they hire is honest and respectful through and through. When they hear you speaking poorly of someone else, they might wonder what you will say about them when they are not around. - Build Team Unity
Building team unity can be one of the most effective ways to demonstrate loyalty to your firm. You likely have the power to influence younger attorneys. Rather than focusing on your own career, take time to encourage the office to grow, learn, and work together. Be humble by showing respect for different levels of attorneys, and encourage an office environment that values all employees, rather than one that is obviously centered around those with the highest positions. Ultimately, this demonstrates your loyalty to the firm as a whole, a loyalty that surpasses or equals that to your own personal career.
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