Ask the Recruiter: How Can We Get Ahead with Recruitment Planning for 2026?

In our Ask a Recruiter feature, our specialist recruitment team tackles key topics around attraction, recruitment and retention. 

This month, Harry Nicholls, our specialist property law recruitment consultant, responds to a law firm that’s looking to get organised ahead of the new year. With 2026 on the horizon, they want to make sure their recruitment plans are aligned with business goals and ready to go in January. 

We’re starting to think about 2026 and want to make sure we’re in a strong position with our recruitment come January. What steps should we take now to get ahead and make next year’s hiring process more efficient and effective? 

I know 2026 might feel like a long way off—but when you factor in interview processes, notice periods, and potential handovers, the lawyers you want to start in January should ideally be moving through your hiring process now. 

Getting ahead now means you’ll have more choice, less pressure, and a much better chance of securing the right people to support your growth plans from day one of the new year. Here’s how to start putting the right foundations in place. 

Here are some simple but important steps you can take now to set yourself up for a successful start to 2026: 

1. Review Your Current Team and Future Needs

Start by looking at your existing structure. Where are the gaps? Which departments are under pressure? Are there any likely departures, retirements, or promotions on the horizon? 

 This gives you a clear view of where you’ll need to recruit—and when. 

2. Set Clear Hiring Objectives

Think about how recruitment fits into your wider business goals. Are you planning to grow a particular team? Expand into a new area of work? Strengthen your leadership bench? Setting clear hiring priorities now will help you avoid reactive decisions later. 

3. Refine Your Employer Brand

Before the new year rush, take time to review your job descriptions, careers page, and internal messaging. Does your offering reflect what lawyers are looking for right now? Is your EVP still relevant? Aligning your messaging with the market will make your roles more attractive—and your recruitment process smoother. 

4. Get Your Hiring Process in Shape

Now’s a good time to assess how your recruitment process is working. Are interview stages clear and consistent? Are decision-makers aligned? Are you able to move quickly when the right person comes along? Even small changes here can make a big difference in the new year. 

5. Work with a Specialist Recruiter Early

Getting your recruiter involved now means they can start building a pipeline of talent ahead of time. We can also help you map the market, refine your messaging, and prepare for roles that may not be live yet—but are likely to become priorities in the first quarter. 

Want a structured approach to get recruitment-ready for 2026? 

Our 2026 Legal Recruitment Checklist will be launching soon and includes a step-by-step guide to help firms plan, prepare and recruit with confidence in the new year. 

Get in touch to register your interest or speak to our specialist team about how we can support your team’s hiring plans for the year ahead.