Re-Evaluating the Associate Lockstep

by | June 15, 2004 | Articles, Cultural Considerations

Is there another profession or business that adheres to the "lockstep"
promotion of new hires and apprentices (a/k/a associates)?  Certainly
no Fortune 500—nor Big Four firm, nor management consultancy,
ad agency, architecture firm, etc., etc.  We all know people
develop at different rates, from early stars zooming well above the
typical learning curve to late bloomers who still have undeniable
potential.

Why then the almost-universal embrace of the lockstep?  Actually,
some firms are experimenting with alternatives.   For
example, setting goals and being able to discuss them openly with
a partner/mentor.

A theme of mine is that all a law firm has is its people:  Wouldn’t
it make sense to look at other ways of bringing associates along?

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