Issue link: https://epubs.iltanet.org/i/5394
www.iltanet.org Firm University 13 Lessons Learned from firm universities Advanced Learning Plans are rewarded with a half day of personal time off for completion of each of those plans. Our personnel are also motivated by the fact that many of our offerings, particularly those geared toward timekeepers, require minimal time commitments. InCentIves or CertIFICatIons In addition to those listed above, tracking reports are referenced in associate reviews. ImpaCt on sUCCess Our personnel are very conscious of the need to keep up and improve their technology and legal practice skills, and management has the tools to keep track of learning plan progress. Microsoft Word-related calls to our helpdesk have decreased significantly since we began implementing our technology learning plans. Our users are more confident working with documents and are better prepared to handle assignment shifts and take on new projects that require previously unused skills. They are more aware of ways technology can save time, and they know where to turn for assistance when needed, rather than wasting time spinning their wheels. WorDs oF WIsDom The employer-employee relationship is a social exchange. Employees choose to give their energy, intellect and innovation to an employer. It is wise to ensure this is a two-way relationship. An employer who chooses to invest in an employee's career — especially beyond what's immediately needed — will likely find engaged employees ready to reciprocate. Also, a training program is never done. In today's fast-changing legal market, the content of the training will evolve to match client and market demands. One must keep an eye on the external market as well as the needs of the internal market to bring forth experiences that help the firm stay competitive and service-oriented. It's interesting to read some of the comments received from our firm university enrollees. "…a great opportunity to refresh my skills and learn something new." "…even if you learn one or two little things, it can make a huge difference in productivity!!" "… the Deinard University classes are a great resource to increase our knowledge, and with that knowledge is the ability to increase our productivity." "…teaching us the various technical applications greatly enhances the quality of our work, and that reflects favorably back on the firm." "I just wanted to drop you a note to let you know how terrific this training program is. We have a great deal to learn if we are going to be efficient in our jobs and, thereby, truly offer good customer service. Always, learning time is not wasted or lost time." "Without the Deinard U classes I would not have had the knowledge or the confidence to dig in and do it. Plus, I am having fun!" ILta