The traditional physical law office has its perks.
Less-technologically inclined staff is able to show up and work as normal with access to tools, systems, and software required to get the job done right. In addition, there’s a sense of camaraderie nurtured when everyone shows up and is “in it together,” a sense you simply can’t instill with a remote work model in place.
Yet, virtual law offices present upside as well. The team appreciates a work-from-home model because it saves them the hassle of a morning and afternoon commute, saving time and travel costs, while also providing increased flexibility and freedom. Firm owners also effectively eliminate monthly rent costs associated with renting physical office space, adding money back to the operating account.
While both formats provide perks, the hybrid model reigns supreme, providing the best of both worlds to the savvy firm owner.
What Is a Hybrid Law Firm?
Hybrid law firms marry the best features of an in-person format with the virtual law office model. While work is still predominantly completed remotely, the firm retains the ability to rent day offices, conference rooms, and other physical spaces for some workplace attendance, meetings, and other events that require a physical presence.
Doing so allows the firm owner to save on monthly rent but still require some physical involvement from the staff as needed. It’s a great compromise for traditional firms looking to move toward a virtual office model but who are not yet ready to fully commit or still require in-person attendance on occasion.
Management Challenges and Pro Tips
Allowing your staff to mostly work unsupervised is risky in a way, but there are ways for supervisors to oversee the staff and ensure they are not taking advantage of the newfound flexibility a hybrid format provides.
One way to track performance is to schedule some in-person days in which the supervisor may oversee the employee’s performance, whether it is a lawyer, administrative assistant, or receptionist. Mandating some oversight allows the supervisor to complete quality assurance checks.
A more effective, more hands-off way to accomplish the same is to set performance benchmarks on an ongoing basis. It’s the supervisor’s job to ensure all employees are operating at peak efficiency, and defining metrics, establishing benchmarks, and measuring performance using these criteria is a great way to guarantee work is getting done.
One final tip regarding hybrid law firm management– schedule semiregular in-person meetings to maintain a presence. It’s important not only to discuss what everyone is working toward, but also to signal that, although everyone is working from home, you are still a team and work must still be a priority.
Incorporating some of these tips helps ensure your hybrid law office operates smoothly and at peak efficiency.
Amata Law Office Suites
If your firm is in the greater Chicago area and you’re looking for an excellent service provider to help ease you into a hybrid firm format, look no further than Amata Law Office Suites. They are the premier law support services provider in the region, and their staff will help make the transition seamless and effortless.
Find out more by contacting Amata Law Office Suites today!
