Should Your Law Firm Have a More Creative Office Space?
Should you have a more creative office space?
Well, duh, because the '90s want their furniture back. Unless you've got more retro-shtick than the Dude, his Dudeness, or Duder, it's time for an upgrade.
This is not an entirely subjective suggestion because Harvard also said so. If you want to inspire creativity at work, change your environment.
Re-Create Space
You can start by re-creating the space you already have. If you need more motivation, consider the phenomenal successes of companies like Google, Apple and Pixar.
Google is so innovative its offices got a part in a movie. With napping pods, food services and play areas, it's definitely "not a conventional workplace."
While law firms are not exactly technology leaders, they are starting to see the benefits of creative workspaces. Alex Kjerulf, a consultant and author, says it makes sense.
"If you come into the office and everything looks uniform, gray, bland and boring, your thinking tends to be that way," he told Entrepreneur. If you come into a place that's stimulating, your mind will become more creative."
Alternative Uses
Having the coolest office -- like "Apple Park" -- is not the point. You don't have to build it; clients will still come. It's about practical changes, too.
For example, co-working and shared office spaces can work for modern lawyers who want more flexible hours. Especially at firms that offer part-time or remote work, it translates into less space overall and lower rents.
If your office doesn't have the budget for a complete re-do, there are plenty of ways to make small changes. Try these:
- Personalize your space
- Create a place for client meetings
- Add life with flowers, plants or a water feature
Most importantly, show people your creative side. Put something unusual and interesting on your desk, and it could open minds.
Related Resources:
- World's Coolest Offices (Inc.)
- Sleep-Deprived Lawyers Get Ready: Law Firm Adds Napping Pods (FindLaw's Strategist)
- How to Write a Funny Demand Letter (FindLaw's Strategist)