Injecting Your Own Personality Helps Build Client Relationships and Boost Morale

There's a great little piece in this week's ABA Journal e-Report on a Philadelphia law firm that's using kids' art to create a welcoming atmosphere for both employees and clients.

The law firm of Cohen, Seglias, Pallas, Greenhall and Furman in Philadelphia has collected the artwork of employees' children, framed it, and hung it in the office lobby. Not only does the artwork allow proud parents to display their childrens' work and feel a part of the firm, but it sends a message that the firm cares about its employees and their families. The display sets a tone for the firm and puts clients at ease.

I think this is a fabulous idea for improving communication and morale within the firm, and fostering an atmosphere in which people feel connected to one another and the firm. The message to clients is that this is a firm that cares about people. It's a win-win for the firm, and it's part of what will set this firm apart - it's a display of their personality.

The firm's website notes their commitment to quality of life issues for attorneys, and the display of children's art in their office is an example of that. (As an aside, I think it would be even better if their site had some pictures of the art gallery to continue that warm atmosphere into their web presence).

This example just goes to show that what differentiates you from your competition doesn't always have to be something directly or traditionally related to your practice or how you deliver your services - sometimes it's just an expression of the firm's personality and the kind of people that work at your firm. I have no doubt that the art gallery at the firm will reap benefits far beyond what the firm initially envisioned when they embarked on this project.