Do Gen Xers and Millennials Make Good Law Firm Leaders?

Generation X lawyers stand poised to wield considerable influence. Gen X has always served as a bridge — between tradition and innovation, the old and the new. Often the unsung heroes in discussions about generational dynamics, Gen X professionals bring a wealth of strengths to law firm leadership. Their pragmatic outlook, honed by navigating shifts in technology and societal changes, positions them as adaptable leaders. Unlike their predecessors who were more comfortable with tradition and a stare decisis mindset, they infuse a sense of flexibility and agility into management strategies.

Far from the horrible "slacker" moniker they were prescribed, today's Gen X leaders are very focused on firm profitability. They are, after all, the first generation of lawyers to mature professionally during the time when members of the industry recognized that law is a profession and law firms are businesses. They understand KPIs, and their entrepreneurial friends and clients in other industries inspire them to see the opportunity in performance improvements. In some firms, it is Gen X partners who are driving the calls for the return to the office by associates.