Real-world scripts and de-escalation strategies for law office managers Even the best law firms will eventually face a client who’s frustrated, emotional—or just plain rude. Legal services are high-stakes, high-stress, and often high-cost, so it's no surprise that tensions sometimes spill over onto front desk staff, paralegals, or even the office manager. When that happens, … [Read more...] about “The Client Was Rude—Now What?” Teaching Staff How to Navigate Difficult Conversations
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How to Negotiate with Employment Agencies
Working with employment agencies is often part of the hiring process when you're responsible for staffing a law office. Whether you're bringing on temporary help or searching for permanent team members, negotiating well with agencies is key to finding the right people at the right price. This guide will help you approach those conversations with confidence and strategy. 1. … [Read more...] about How to Negotiate with Employment Agencies
How to Help Set Up a Lawyer Blog to Market Your Firm
Assisting a lawyer in creating a legal blog can be a rewarding project, enhancing the law firm’s visibility and establishing the attorney as a thought leader in their practice area. As a law office administrator, your role will be crucial in streamlining this process. Here’s how you can effectively assist: 1. Identify the Blog's Purpose Help the lawyer clarify the blog’s … [Read more...] about How to Help Set Up a Lawyer Blog to Market Your Firm
6 Realities About Client Billing and How to Address Them
By Elizabeth M. Miller bio Nothing strikes a nerve with clients more than having to pay legal fees. I am not sure why, but some clients think it is acceptable to expect their lawyers to work for free, something they don't expect anyone else to do. In today's economy, clients are looking for reduced legal fees and results. Value billing and flat fee billing structures are … [Read more...] about 6 Realities About Client Billing and How to Address Them
Unlocking the Marketing Potential of Front Desk Staff in Your Law Firm
The front desk staff often serve as the initial point of contact for clients, visitors, and callers. While their primary role may seem administrative, savvy law office managers recognize that these frontline team members wield significant influence in shaping the firm's image and marketing efforts. Here's how your front desk staff can become invaluable allies in marketing your … [Read more...] about Unlocking the Marketing Potential of Front Desk Staff in Your Law Firm
Working on everything everywhere all at once? Try monotasking
In today’s fast-paced business environment, office administrators are often faced with a multitude of tasks and responsibilities. As the demands of the job continue to grow, it becomes increasingly tempting to juggle multiple tasks simultaneously, commonly known as multitasking. However, there is an emerging school of thought that promotes the merits of monotasking—focusing on … [Read more...] about Working on everything everywhere all at once? Try monotasking
Payroll Part 1: In-House or Outsource
Payroll is one of those tasks that feels deceptively simple—until you’re the one responsible for it. It’s high-stakes, time-sensitive, and leaves no room for error. The decision to manage it internally or hire an outside provider deserves serious consideration. There’s no universal answer. The best option depends on your firm’s size, budget, staffing, and appetite for risk. … [Read more...] about Payroll Part 1: In-House or Outsource
The Heroine with a Headcount: Handling the Disruption Diva
By Lynne Curry Question: We thought we’d hit the jackpot when we hired “Sonali.” She possessed all the right skills, and her interview dazzled. My manager said, “I love her fresh thinking. Keep her happy; we need her.” The trouble surfaced in week three. Sonali pinged me on Slack. “FYI—our ticket system’s outdated. I built a new one in Notion. Should triple … [Read more...] about The Heroine with a Headcount: Handling the Disruption Diva
7 Ways to Attract Top Legal Administrative Talent in a Tight Job Market
Hiring top legal administrative talent has become more challenging than ever. With increased competition, law firms must refine their hiring strategies to attract and retain the best administrative professionals. As a law office manager, you play a crucial role in ensuring your firm stands out in a competitive job market. Here’s how you can secure top-tier legal administrative … [Read more...] about 7 Ways to Attract Top Legal Administrative Talent in a Tight Job Market
How to Help Your Staff Become More Financially Literate
In a law office, financial literacy among staff is crucial for maintaining smooth operations and ensuring the firm’s financial health. When staff understand financial principles, they can contribute to better budget management, more accurate billing, and overall operational efficiency. Here’s how you can help your law office staff become more financially literate: 1. … [Read more...] about How to Help Your Staff Become More Financially Literate