Recent injuries to key players in the NBA playoffs underscore an oft-ignored principle that applies to law firms as well as professional sports teams: A team needs time to adjust after losing a member of the team.
Many firms view the loss of a lawyer, paralegal, admin support, or “C” level employee as an inconvenience; once the person is replaced, the firm will move on. However, such a view ignores the true impact on the remaining members of the team.
The loss of a team member causes changes to the entire group. The work flow dynamics, productivity and (for the lack of a better word), karma of the law firm must now readjust. The more integral the member, the longer it takes to make the adjustments.
The Yankees have struggled all year with various members of the team missing multiple games. The Miami Heat lost star point guard, Dwayne Wade, for Game 6 of the NBA Eastern Conference Finals; they were beaten by almost 30 points! The Chicago Bulls have yet to reclaim the glory of the Michael Jordan years. All these teams still have some of the top talent in the world, but they have trouble competing until the team adjusts to the loss of one player and the addition of the replacement.
Clearly, the loss of a rainmaking partner has an impact on a law firm; however, do not underestimate the impact on all levels. Even when an associate or administrative staff person leaves, there are changes to address.
True, the new person requires training to fit in the firm; however, the existing people also need time to make adjustments. Current staff was used to working with the person who left. They were familiar with their working style, idiosyncrasies, even their favorite sports teams and movies. Everyone must now re-establish a new working relationship with that new person.
This adjustment period takes time. It takes patience and understanding of team management to understand this and to work with the team to make sure the new player fits.
During this time, productivity will be down as members get to know the working style of the new player. Team dynamics will change as the new person assimilates into the team. Professional friendships need time to root and become established. Such relationships improve work-flow, loyalty, and personal investment in the firm.
An enlightened team manager not only allows time for these dynamics, but nurtures them as well. In addition to introducing the members of the team, make sure team members know the firm is sensitive to the changes and will work with the team to make sure they return to top form as soon as practicable.
And the next time a team player is about to leave, make sure you have considered the costs of making a change that effects all members of your championship team!
