'Retaining talent requires more than competitive salaries and standard benefits'

In today’s highly competitive job market, retaining and attracting top talent requires more than just competitive salaries and standard benefits.

Employees are seeking workplaces that align with their values, provide real work-life balance, and actively support their wellbeing.

A 2023 Deloitte survey found 60% of employees would consider leaving their job for one that better supports their wellbeing.

At RDJ, we have embraced this shift by embedding progressive policies that foster an inclusive, flexible, and people-centred culture.

Our recent B Corp Certification underscores this commitment, reinforcing the idea that responsible business practices and employee engagement go hand-in-hand. This reflects a broader trend across industries where businesses are recognising that purpose-driven workplaces yield higher retention, productivity, and employee satisfaction.

A Culture That Puts People First

With a workforce of 290 people across Cork, Dublin, and Galway, we know a strong workplace culture is essential for long-term success. In recent years, we have introduced a suite of policies designed to support our employees at every stage of their lives and careers. These are a testament to our belief that people thrive when they feel valued and supported.

Flexible and hybrid working models have become a necessity rather than a perk. Recruiter CPL revealed last month that 60% of candidates would turn down a new position if it didn’t meet their hybrid working needs. At RDJ, we are happy to facilitate a number of requests for part-time working arrangements. Additionally, our newly introduced sabbatical leave policy, which enables employees to take 3-6 months off for personal growth, travel, or volunteering, has been met with strong enthusiasm.

Family-friendly policies are also a key differentiator in talent retention. In 2023, we introduced paid leave for surrogacy, fertility treatments, and early-stage pregnancy loss. These policies acknowledge the diverse family-building journeys of employees and ensure they receive the support they need during significant life moments. By leading the way in these areas, we hope to set a precedent for other organisations to follow.

A 2023 LinkedIn Workforce Trends Report found nearly 70% of professionals consider a company’s purpose and culture as their most important consideration. The uptake on initiatives such as sabbaticals and flexible working arrangements demonstrates that these policies resonate with employees and contribute to a more engaged and motivated team. Those who feel supported in both their personal and professional lives are more likely to stay, grow, and contribute meaningfully to the business.

Volunteer Days are another step in this direction, allowing employees to dedicate time to community initiatives that matter to them and investing in learning and development, offering study and exam leave, as well as funding career-related training. By creating an environment where employees feel valued, empowered, and supported, you are setting the foundation for long-term success, and, for us, the legal profession as a whole.

Mental Health and Wellbeing: A Business Imperative

Mental health and wellbeing should never be an after-thought in workplace policies. The World Health Organisation estimates anxiety and depression cost the global economy $1 trillion per year in lost productivity. The legal profession, in particular, comes with unique pressures, making it essential to proactively address these challenges.

We are incredibly proud to be part of a pilot collaboration with the Law Society of Ireland, Culture First | Well within the Law, which is developing a long-term strategy around psychological wellbeing at all levels of law firms and fostering a culture of belonging where everyone is supported to reach their full potential.

Internally, our active Wellness Team ensures wellbeing is embedded into our culture, not just through policies but through real, tangible activities. From in-office yoga sessions and monthly sauna and swim events to sleep seminars and financial wellbeing talks, we take a holistic approach to supporting our employees’ physical, mental, and financial health. This commitment has been recognised with the KeepWell Mark accreditation in wellness.

The Power of Purpose: Becoming a B Corp

One of the most significant milestones in our journey has been achieving B Corp Certification - the first Irish law firm to do so. This recognises our dedication to social and environmental impact and signals to current and prospective employees that RDJ is a firm that prioritises purpose alongside profit.

The rigorous 18-month certification process saw us strengthen our governance, workplace culture, and sustainability efforts. Among the key achievements were increasing female representation in senior management to 35%, transitioning to 100% renewable electricity across all offices, and committing to a 5% annual reduction in our carbon footprint.

Additionally, our Diversity Scholarship and Placement Programmes at University College Cork and University of Galway provide pathways for underrepresented students to enter the legal profession, furthering our impact beyond our immediate workforce.

These efforts are part of a larger trend. The number of B Corp-certified companies globally has surpassed 9,500 across 160 industries, including more than 60 headquartered in Ireland. This reflects a growing recognition that businesses have a role to play in driving positive change and that employees increasingly seek out workplaces aligning with their values.

The Future of Workplace Culture

As we look ahead, the expectations of employees will continue to evolve. Businesses that fail to adapt will struggle to attract and retain the best talent. The business case for investing in workplace culture is clear: happier, healthier employees drive better outcomes. A 2024 Gallup report found highly engaged business units achieve an 18% increase in sales productivity and a 14% increase in overall productivity.

As organisations navigate an increasingly competitive talent landscape, those that prioritise flexibility, inclusion, and wellbeing will emerge as leaders. Employees want to be part of a company that aligns with their values and prioritises their overall wellbeing.

For RDJ, our journey as a B Corp and our investment in progressive policies are about building a workplace where people can truly thrive. We hope that by sharing our approach, we can inspire other businesses to take meaningful steps towards a more people-centric future.