360-degree feedback involves receiving feedback from varied sources, including an employee's subordinates, colleagues, supervisor, and self-evaluation by the employee, thus allowing the firm to gather an overall view of the person's performance. Firms can understand better which employees are thriving and, more importantly, require assistance from an executive coach or training program.

A 360-degree survey includes multiple topics such as strategic vision, decisiveness, financial knowledge, the effectiveness of a person's communication, meeting the training and developmental needs of an attorney, understanding the firm's goals and values.

SRA highly encourages bringing an employee's strengths to the forefront through such a feedback process. It can help create an environment that reaps long-lasting benefits for both lawyers and the firm.

Often, employees feel demoralized as they are reviewed by people who have not worked with them in the past, leading to generic reviews than specific and meaningful ones. People familiar with an associate's work should be the ones giving reviews. 360-degree feedback can be helpful here, as it involves receiving input from various references who work with them, including those they may have worked with in the past. 

Boosting a lawyer's confidence is of utmost importance, and encouraging them to reach their full potential can benefit both the lawyer and the firm. Through 360 degree reviews, they can understand their strengths and weaknesses better and make way for change.