Despite the ongoing shift by many firms to roll back remote work policies initiated during the COVID-19 pandemic, Goodwin is enhancing in-office collaboration rather than merely increasing office days. Last year saw a trend where several firms moved from requiring three to four in-office days per week, often linking in-office presence to bonus eligibility.
Goodwin Procter Uses Tech In Office Attendance : Enhancing In-Office Engagement
Recognizing the challenges of maintaining meaningful engagement while in the office, McCusker and Bettencourt have introduced innovative strategies to “foster connectivity” among staff. These include organizing raffles and allocating new budgets for social gatherings within or around the firm’s premises.
These measures aim to enrich the office experience, making it more than just a place to work but a space to interact and collaborate effectively.
The Broader Impact on the Legal Industry
The legal industry continues to explore the balance between remote and in-office work. According to a 2022 American Bar Association report, 44% of attorneys with ten years of practice or less expressed a preference for remote opportunities, indicating the continued popularity of flexible work arrangements.