August 2008 NATIONAL NEWSLETTER

Welcome to the August edition of the ALPMA Member Newsletter which showcases articles from Summit '08 Speakers. 

‘BUILD IT AND THEY’LL COME’: TALENT MANAGEMENT AND DIVERSITY IN LAW FIRMS     

Written by Dr. Margaret Byrne, UGM Consulting.  Dr Byrneis a key note presenter at the '08 Summit

For most law firms today, the engine driving strategic success and profitability is their talent – its depth and its quality. But in an era where unprecedented skill shortages face all sectors of the Australian economy, law firms now find themselves in the thick of what’s been termed a ‘war for talent’ – how to attract it, how to build it and, most importantly, how to keep it. Law firms in all states are experiencing a painful truth: today talent is tougher to find and keep, and easier than ever to squander and lose. In this context, it’s no surprise that how to manage talent well comes high on every firm’s strategic agenda. Yet many still lean heavily on outdated ways of thinking that don’t match current workplace realities and don’t take into account today’s demographic complexity.

How to Be A Leader of Change - And why most change agents don't change a thing

Written by Alan Weiss, Ph.D.  Alan is the key note presenter at the '08 Summit

We all talk about “leadership” and “change,” but we seldom know what we mean since we don’t specify a process. That’s like driving without understanding the rules of the road. Before long, you’ll hit something and may well hurt yourself and others.

Here’s what I think the process looks like:

The Business Case for Sustainability           

Written by Davis Solsky, Managing Director of Zerofootprint Australia.  David is presenting at the '08 Summit.

With increasing urgency around climate change and environmental sustainability, the business world is facing a number of complex issues in ensuring the business readiness of themselves and their clients to participate in a carbon constrained economy.  Global economic forces, increased government regulation and compliance, an impending price on carbon, and a market that is swiftly turning green are all contributing to organisations seriouly considering their environmental and sustainability positioning.

Standing Naked in front of your client      

Written by Peter C. Ross, Senior Consultant with Report Factory Pty Ltd (http:/www.reportfactory.com.au).  Peter is presenting at the '08 Summit.

Using a phrase coined by a client of ours, it seems interesting and useful to discuss this concept. It is clear that both from a client demand as well as an innovate firm marketing approach, the trend is on the increase.

What does ‘ standing naked’ mean for you and your firm, and should you resist?

What (Some) Clients Think About Their Lawyers

Written by John Chisholm, John Chisholm Consulting.  John is presenting at the '08 Summit    

A couple of years ago I spoke to about 30 CPA's who were management accountants in organisations of varying sizes ranging from multinationals to SME's. The topic (chosen for me I might add) was entitled "Everything You Always Wanted To Know About Lawyers But It Was Too Expensive To Ask!!!" Yep I guess I should have realised I was being set up - or setting myself up.

Kerrie Billings

ALPMA National Secretariat

T: 03 9432 0335

E: k.billings@alpm.com.au

W: www.alpma.com.au