Law.com Subscribers SAVE 30%

Call 855-808-4530 or email [email protected] to receive your discount on a new subscription.

Using the Generational Gap to Enhance Engagement

By Marcie Borgal Shunk
July 01, 2023

Discussions of generational differences are not new to law firm leaders. For over a decade, starting when the first millennials graduated law school, efforts to seamlessly integrate — or, perhaps in some cases, strong-arm — new hires into the law firm business model have been a source of focus; and, for many, consternation. Distinct contrasts in ways of working, personal motivators and prevailing attitudes have left many leaders frustrated and disillusioned.

Responses on social media to Paul Hastings' training slide, ranging from applause to sharp criticism, evidence exactly how disparate people's outlooks are when it comes to workplace standards.

Today, the oldest millennials are just over 40 years old. The newest hires, Gen Z, bring an entirely new set of preferences and constraints to the table. In an era where the power dynamics in the legal industry are shifting decidedly to talent, a firm's ability to tap into generational differences to invigorate, attract and retain talent is a competitive advantage. It can also alleviate the palpable tension over behavior-expectation gaps across generations. Yet when it comes to understanding generational differences, superficial explanations and monikers such as "slackers" (Gen X) and "Gen Me" (millennials) tend to garner more airplay than real facts or solutions. Stereotypes persist and the very differences in communication styles preferred by generations prevent many from engaging in the learning and dialogue needed to overcome, accept and, yes, even celebrate and benefit from what makes each generation unique.

This premium content is locked for Entertainment Law & Finance subscribers only

  • Stay current on the latest information, rulings, regulations, and trends
  • Includes practical, must-have information on copyrights, royalties, AI, and more
  • Tap into expert guidance from top entertainment lawyers and experts

For enterprise-wide or corporate acess, please contact Customer Service at [email protected] or 877-256-2473

Read These Next
'Huguenot LLC v. Megalith Capital Group Fund I, L.P.': A Tutorial On Contract Liability for Real Estate Purchasers Image

In June 2024, the First Department decided Huguenot LLC v. Megalith Capital Group Fund I, L.P., which resolved a question of liability for a group of condominium apartment buyers and in so doing, touched on a wide range of issues about how contracts can obligate purchasers of real property.

Strategy vs. Tactics: Two Sides of a Difficult Coin Image

With each successive large-scale cyber attack, it is slowly becoming clear that ransomware attacks are targeting the critical infrastructure of the most powerful country on the planet. Understanding the strategy, and tactics of our opponents, as well as the strategy and the tactics we implement as a response are vital to victory.

CoStar Wins Injunction for Breach-of-Contract Damages In CRE Database Access Lawsuit Image

Latham & Watkins helped the largest U.S. commercial real estate research company prevail in a breach-of-contract dispute in District of Columbia federal court.

Fresh Filings Image

Notable recent court filings in entertainment law.

The Power of Your Inner Circle: Turning Friends and Social Contacts Into Business Allies Image

Practical strategies to explore doing business with friends and social contacts in a way that respects relationships and maximizes opportunities.