The basics of retreat planning.

• Author: Meyers, Julie P.
• Position: About This Issue

This issue of Strategies is dedicated to law firm retreats and has been written as a guide you can use when planning your law firm's retreat. In this issue, you will learn from Kathy Keane, director of legal administration, professional development and recruitment for Schnader Harrison Segal and Lewis LLP, about all of the logistics to consider when you are planning your event, from location to program content and entertainment. Keane tells us about the many resources available to streamline retreat planning and help you execute a successful retreat.

A common interest expressed by attorneys is their ability to meet and get to know colleagues from different offices. Susan Tabor-Kleiman, JD, discusses a creative way to use Linkedln to jumpstart interoffice relationship building and networking before the retreat even begins.

David Freeman, JD, CEO of the David Freeman Consulting Group, advises us about things to consider during the retreat planning process--this advice will help ensure an effective retreat where most, if not all, of the identified goals can be met. Some of those considerations include identification of themes, teambuilding exercises and ways to build camaraderie.

Some law firms plan retreats that focus on groups such as women, minorities or clients and prospects in specific industries. Group-focused retreats are unique events that require special considerations and planning in order to be effective and successful. Michele Golivesky, director of business development and marketing at Taylor...