One of Cumbria’s leading law firms, Bendles Solicitors, has nearly doubled its staff numbers in the last five years to meet the demand for reputable legal services.
This growth has been the result of the acquisition of Beaty & Co Solicitors in Wigton and Tiffens Estate Agents; as well as the steady expansion of the firm’s various specialist departments, such as conveyancing and family law.
However, Bendles hasn’t been immune to the costly and time-consuming challenges of recruitment. In order to minimise this headache, the firm has adopted a grow your own strategy with a proven track record.
Practice manager Eileen Longcake explains how this approach has benefitted the firm.
“Bendles’ backbone is talent that has been mentored and supported over many years by experienced staff within the firm. Whilst not a quick solution to harnessing talent it’s an approach which has ultimately brought out the best in our staff and their performance.
“We’ve had a number of recruits join us as apprentices in the support department and have worked their way up from reception to secretarial and paralegal roles for example, with others going on to study for law degrees or professional accreditation alongside their work.
“Developing staff internally has been effective and rewarding. In return for support and training we’ve got true commitment and employees who really understand the firm from the ground floor.”
Eileen set out her three top tips for other companies looking to do the same:
- Selection for development must be a fair process and the numbers should be commensurate with the size of the firm and resources available. Chances are, if the individual isn’t engaged or performing well in their current role, they won’t be interested. The desire to develop must be there from the start.
- Everyone is different, so pace the development according to the individual. Training should be planned and agreed together in advance, simply offering a promotion when the need arises won’t work; you’re likely to overwhelm and dent your staff’s confidence.
- Employees who have a desire to progress should be assigned a mentor for work guidance and constructive feedback, but they should also have access to emotional support to help them navigate challenges and to minimise stress.
Bendles is currently recruiting for several new roles, including a legal secretary in their award-winning family department. Find out more here.
If you’re interested in working for a firm with a strong commitment to staff development and fostering talent, you can view more job opportunities at Bendles by visiting the careers section on their website www.bendlessolicitors.co.uk
