When a law firm brings on a lateral hire, announcing their arrival is a critical step to help set them up for success. But what’s equally important is the groundwork laid before the announcement, ensuring the new hire’s successful integration and immediate impact. This article explores key strategies law firms should employ in preparation for announcing a lateral hire.

Lateral Hire Pre-Announcement Strategies

1. Internal Alignment: Ensure all key stakeholders within the firm are informed and aligned with the new hire’s role and potential impact. This alignment aids in seamless integration.
2. Understanding the Hire’s Expertise: Clearly understand and articulate the new hire’s expertise and how it complements the firm’s existing services. This clarity helps in crafting a compelling narrative for the announcement.
3. Client Integration Plan: Develop a plan for introducing the lateral hire to existing clients, highlighting how their expertise adds value to the clients’ legal solutions.
4. Marketing and PR Preparation: Collaborate with the marketing team to prepare press releases, website updates and social media announcements. Create a buzz that positions the new hire as a key asset to the firm.
5. Internal Onboarding: Prior to the announcement, begin the onboarding process to acclimate the hire to the firm’s culture, processes and people. This early integration helps in projecting confidence and readiness from day one.

Lateral Hire Announcement Execution

• Timed Release: Choose the optimal time for the announcement, considering industry events, significant firm achievements or other strategic timelines.
• Multi-Channel Approach: Utilize various channels such as press releases, social media, firm newsletters and internal communications for widespread reach.
• Highlighting Unique Value: Emphasize the unique skills and experiences the lateral hire brings, and how they align with the firm’s strategic direction and client needs.

Lateral Hire Post-Announcement Follow-Up

• Feedback and Support: Regularly check in with the lateral hire to offer support and gather feedback on their integration experience.
• Client Meetings: Facilitate meetings between the new hire and key clients to establish relationships and demonstrate the firm’s commitment to enhanced service delivery.
• Monitor Impact: Track the new hire’s impact on the firm, including client feedback, new business development and internal team dynamics.

The announcement of a lateral hire is more than a news item; it’s an opportunity to showcase the firm’s growth and strategic direction. By carefully planning your lateral’s pre-announcement activities and executing a well-thought-out lateral announcement strategy, law firms can ensure their lateral hires are positioned for success and ready to make a significant impact from the outset.

Key Takeaways for Announcing a Law Firm Lateral Hire

1. Internal Alignment: Ensure all firm stakeholders are informed and supportive of the new hire’s role and potential contributions.
2. Understanding the Hire’s Expertise: Clearly articulate the new hire’s unique skills and how they enhance the firm’s service offerings.
3. Client Integration Plan: Have a strategy for introducing the hire to existing clients, showcasing added value.
4. Marketing Preparation: Collaborate with marketing and PR teams for effective and buzz-generating announcements.
5. Comprehensive Onboarding: Start the onboarding process early to ensure the new hire is well-integrated into the firm’s culture and practices.
6. Strategic Announcement Timing: Choose an optimal time for the announcement to maximize impact.
7. Utilizing Multiple Channels: Disseminate the announcement through various platforms for broad reach.
8. Post-Announcement Support: Regularly support and check in with the new hire for a smooth transition.
9. Client Relationship Building: Facilitate the new hire’s relationship building with key clients.
10. Monitoring Impact: Assess the new hire’s influence on the firm in terms of client feedback and business development.