One idea is a plan that would allow flexible working hours for both partners and associates yet guarantee that associates working such hours would still be considered for partner. The world is composed of 50 percent women and 50 percent men, and everyone should be included. Axelroth helped Ballard institute a part-time agreement that has been in effect for two or three years but has not yet been tested. Axelroth also believes that it's important to be not just a role model that they can point at. She routinely meets with junior attorneys, assisting in training and helping new recruits to understand firm culture and the opportunities open to them.
Women do things differently.
They communicate differently. They have a different presence. For businesswomen and attorneys to see that you can be successful with a different style, as a woman, can be inspiring. Women such as Cannon often are good listeners, continues Young, more willing to accept comments from their peers than their male counterparts. When the firm considered whether to expand into Baltimore, Cannon involved all attorneys in the ultimate decision.