This archive report was first published on 27 July 2021.
As the COVID-19 pandemic ravaged the world, many businesses were forced to adapt to a new reality of remote work. But for one Houston law firm, the decision to reopen its office proved to be a game-changer.
March 2020 was a challenging time for the firm, with stay-at-home orders turning downtown Houston into a ghost town. The firm's 90 employees were forced to work from home, but the results were disappointing. Productivity suffered, and morale plummeted.
However, the firm's leaders were determined to find a solution. After about five weeks, they reopened their office, taking steps to mitigate the risks of COVID-19. They provided plastic shields for common-area desks, face masks, and hired industrial cleaners. They also instituted a common-area mask mandate and a staggered lunch schedule.
The decision to reopen paid off. In 2020, the firm's revenue grew by 39%, despite not cutting costs or staff. They even hired eight new lawyers and picked up 75 clients. The firm's leaders attributed their success to the collaborative nature of a physical office space and the ability to support their clients and the local economy.
But the decision to reopen was not without consequence. Some employees did get sick with the virus, but no one was hospitalized or became seriously ill. The firm took a sensible precaution and closed the office for a week after the group tested positive.
The firm's experience serves as a lesson in resilience and adaptability. By taking calculated risks and finding creative solutions, businesses can thrive even in the most challenging times.
