Onward Insights

Welcome to the February edition of Onward Insights! If you haven't joined our LinkedIn community yet, don't forget to click the "Subscribe" button above to stay updated.

This month, we're exploring a concept that impacts every corner of the legal profession: the true meaning of value. In an industry where firms often claim similar strengths and candidates weigh multiple offers, understanding what creates meaningful value becomes essential for both sides of the hiring equation.

At Onward Recruiting, we believe that defining value goes far beyond surface-level perks or generic claims about "great people." It means articulating a truly distinctive value proposition for firms that resonates with candidates. For attorneys, evaluating opportunities means looking beyond compensation to identify what will create career fulfillment.

In this newsletter, we'll examine how forward-thinking firms differentiate themselves in meaningful ways and how attorneys can assess what they truly value in their next career move. Let's redefine value together!

If your Employee Value Proposition (EVP) boils down to “we have great people,” you’re blending in, not standing out. Every law firm says that. Talent is asking tougher questions:

?? What makes your firm unique?

?? What’s the actual experience of working there?

?? How will I grow, thrive, and contribute in ways that matter to me?

The answers define value—and that’s where the real competitive edge lies.

Value for Firms: Beyond the Buzzwords

Law firms that attract and retain top talent don’t rely on vague promises. They get specific:

• Culture That Lives Beyond the Website: What’s it like to work at your firm? Showcase authentic stories, team dynamics, and leadership in action—no fluff—just facts.
• Purpose, Not Just Profits: People want to connect with work that matters. How does your firm impact clients, industries, and communities beyond billable hours?
• Proof of Growth: Transparent career paths and skill-building opportunities show you’re invested in long-term success—for associates and partners alike.
• Real Flexibility: Hybrid work and wellbeing packages aren’t optional anymore—they’re expected. Highlight what flexibility looks like, not just that it exists.

When your EVP reflects the experience of working at your firm—not just a polished pitch—you attract talent that stays, grows, and contributes at their highest potential.

Value for Candidates: Why Lateral Moves Matter

For attorneys, redefining value often means rethinking career moves. And here’s the reality: lateral associates are making partner at twice the rate of peers who stay put.

But it’s not just about title changes or bigger paychecks. Lateral moves fast-track success because they expand your professional toolkit:

• Diverse Skill Development: Different firms mean different methodologies, client structures, and leadership styles. Each move sharpens your expertise.
• Expanded Client Relationships: While one firm might specialize in certain industries, another opens doors to new sectors, broadening your business acumen.
• The Network Effect: Every move grows your circle—colleagues, mentors, clients. These connections often lead to stronger client portfolios and leadership opportunities.
• Accelerated Learning: Exposure to varied deal structures, practice models, and tech systems builds resilience and adaptability—qualities that make future partners stand out.

It’s no coincidence that lateral attorneys often rise faster. They’ve simply seen more, done more, and built more value along the way.

Redefining Success, Together

Whether you’re a firm looking to attract top-tier talent or an attorney considering your next move, one truth stands out: Value isn’t static—it’s built through experience, opportunity, and choice.

For firms, the challenge is clear: What’s your real differentiator? Why should the best and brightest choose you over every other firm saying, “We have great people”?

For candidates, the opportunity is equally compelling: Seek environments that stretch your skills, expand your relationships, and align with your personal definition of success.

Because, in the end, redefining value isn’t just about titles, salaries, or prestige. It’s about becoming the best version of yourself—whether you’re building a practice or a career.

Monthly Recap:

Stop Saying "We Have Great People"—It's Not Enough Generic statements about having "great people" no longer differentiate your firm in today's competitive legal market. This post explores why firms need to articulate specific, meaningful value propositions and how to move beyond clichés to attract the right talent. The discussion highlights concrete ways to demonstrate your firm's unique culture and advantages. Read more >>

Fast-Track Your Future: The Hidden Perks of Switching Firms Beyond compensation increases, strategic lateral moves can offer attorneys accelerated skill development, expanded networks, and renewed perspective. This post explores the often-overlooked benefits of firm transitions and how to evaluate whether a move aligns with your long-term career objectives. Read more >>

2025 Hiring Hack: Refresh Your Employee Value Proposition Is your firm's employee value proposition (EVP) still relevant in 2025? This post examines how to evaluate and update your EVP to reflect changing attorney priorities and market realities. Learn how leading firms are reimagining their value propositions to attract and retain top legal talent in a competitive landscape. Read more >>

Parting Thoughts: Taking the Next Step:

As you think about your next career move or hiring decision, one thing is clear: the best professional relationships aren’t just about credentials or open roles—they’re built on real alignment. When firms can clearly define what makes them stand out, and attorneys know what they truly want from their careers, that’s when the right connections happen.

At Onward Recruiting, we help firms sharpen their value propositions and guide attorneys toward opportunities that fit their long-term goals. Whether you’re rethinking how to attract top talent or considering a lateral move, we’re here to provide insight, strategy, and maybe even a little clarity along the way.

Check out our latest insights:

?? Culture by Design: Stop Letting Your Law Firm’s Identity Run on Autopilot – Your firm’s culture isn’t just something that happens—it’s something you create. Here’s how to shape an identity that stands out.

?? Future-Proofing Your Career: Stay Ahead in an AI-Driven Industry – AI is transforming the legal profession. Here’s what attorneys need to know to stay competitive.

?? Is Remote Work Dead? Let’s Not Bury It Just Yet – The legal industry is shifting, but does that mean the end of remote and flexible work? Not so fast.

The legal landscape is evolving, and those who can clearly define their unique value—whether as a firm or as an attorney—will be the ones who thrive. Let’s keep the conversation going. Connect with us on LinkedIn or reach out directly—we’re always happy to chat.