As legal professionals, compensation takes a more holistic form beyond our paychecks. Traditionally, lawyers dedicate long hours to their employers, often in strict, office-bound roles. Yet, as the character, Michael Scott, from the popular TV show “The Office,” argues eloquently, job perks can often outweigh monetary compensation. The times are indeed changing.
As detailed in a recent article in Above The Law, two particular perks stand out: the ability to work remotely and business travel benefits.
Before the COVID-19 pandemic, business travel constituted a prime perk for some attorneys, with the costs for airfare, food, accommodation, etc., reimbursed by the firm or its clients. The financial value of these reimbursements could easily run into tens of thousands of dollars. In addition to broadly expanding one’s network of acquaintances and experiences, business travel often came with collateral benefits such as credit card rewards, hotel points, and airline miles.
Yet, today’s changed landscape potentially underscores the lure of remote work. With significant reduction in attorney travel due to the pandemic’s surge of virtual conferences, depositions, and meetings, the ability to work remotely serves as a valuable asset. It can provide a desirable work-life balance, allowing professionals to work in settings they find most comfortable, productive, and, crucially, safe.
The physical office itself could sometimes be unstimulating or even tedious. The article recalled how attorneys would spend quality time at courts with known acquaintances, enjoying a reprieve from the usual office environment, due to traveling for conferences or other out-of-office experiences. These instances, although less frequent post-pandemic, still offer a glimpse into potential roles that could allow more flexibility in one’s work life, often making up for a lower salary.
In conclusion, while salary naturally plays an intrinsic role in job incentives, other factors increasingly come into focus. For today’s legal professionals, elements such as remote work feasibility and job flexibility can significantly shape their working experience and satisfaction levels, possibly making up for a less lucrative paycheck. As the dynamics of the workplace continue to evolve, attorneys might find themselves agreeing with Michael Scott: sometimes, job perks are better than salaries.