Few managers realize that successful communication depends heavily on body language. When people don't get the response they expect, they need to understand that their bodies aren't sending the messages they think they're conveying. Much of the message that gets picked up in a conversation comes from motions and gestures. And it works both ways. A manager has to know body … [Read more...] about To Make a Point, Use the Body Language that Supports Your Words
Managing the office
8 Proven Ways to Totally Destroy Your Credibility as a Manager
A manager can have great knowledge and great skills, but without credibility with both attorneys and staff, don't expect success. What is credibility? It can be defined as "what we do and how we do it that causes others to respect and believe us." The "what-we-do" is the tangible things—the work and its results. The "how-we-do-it" is the behavior that demonstrates a person's … [Read more...] about 8 Proven Ways to Totally Destroy Your Credibility as a Manager
Budgeting and Planning for Long-Term Stability
Effective budgeting and financial planning are crucial for the long-term stability and success of any law office. Managing finances not only ensures that the firm operates smoothly but also positions it for future growth and stability. Here are some practical tips for creating a sustainable budget, managing expenses, and planning for the financial future of your firm. 1. … [Read more...] about Budgeting and Planning for Long-Term Stability
How Attorneys and Staff Can Improve Timekeeping Habits to Avoid Lost Revenue
Accurate time tracking is the foundation of a profitable law firm. Yet, many firms lose thousands—if not millions—of dollars each year due to untracked or underreported billable time. Poor timekeeping habits, delayed entries, and inefficient processes can eat away at revenue without anyone noticing. As a law office manager, you can help attorneys and staff develop better time … [Read more...] about How Attorneys and Staff Can Improve Timekeeping Habits to Avoid Lost Revenue
How to Unplug from Work Over the Thanksgiving Holiday
Thanksgiving is almost here, and as a law office administrator, you’re no stranger to the fast-paced nature of your role. From managing deadlines to keeping operations seamless, it’s easy to let work take over your time. But even the most dedicated administrators need a chance to recharge. Thanksgiving offers a perfect opportunity to step back, enjoy the holiday, and return … [Read more...] about How to Unplug from Work Over the Thanksgiving Holiday
How to Hire a Great Receptionist
Hire a receptionist and hire the manager of first and lasting impressions. The receptionist position is a marketing position. Before callers ever talk to an attorney, they form an opinion of the firm through their contact with the front desk. Yet most firms view the position as one that doesn't need a lot of intellectual skills and hire a receptionist without looking for the … [Read more...] about How to Hire a Great Receptionist
Big Changes: How to Navigate a Law Office Merger
The merger of law offices is a significant event that can reshape the landscape of a legal practice. As a law office manager, you play a central role in ensuring a smooth transition during this process. Office mergers present unique challenges and opportunities, and this article aims to provide guidance on how to navigate them effectively. Understanding the Merger … [Read more...] about Big Changes: How to Navigate a Law Office Merger
Spreadsheet Savvy is Vital to Law Office Administration
In the dynamic landscape of legal administration, adept management of data and information is paramount. Law office managers serve as the backbone of law firms, ensuring smooth operations, client satisfaction, and adherence to regulatory requirements. Amidst the myriad responsibilities they shoulder, proficiency in utilizing spreadsheets emerges as a cornerstone skill, … [Read more...] about Spreadsheet Savvy is Vital to Law Office Administration
How to Give Your Collections Engine a Tuneup
When your collections process is humming along, cash flow stays steady, and everyone from partners to vendors feels confident. But over time, even the most efficient collections system can start to sputter. Let’s talk about how to give your collections machine a tuneup so you can keep your financial engine running strong. 1. Revisit Your Billing and Invoicing Processes Start … [Read more...] about How to Give Your Collections Engine a Tuneup
Tick Those Unpleasant Tasks Off Your To-Do List
Avoiding something unpleasant is the main reason people procrastinate. Try one of these four approaches when you face an unpleasant task: Do it. There’s an adrenaline rush from knowing you’ve completed an unpleasant task. Finishing something you’ve been putting off will energize you for the rest of the day. Don’t do it yet. If you’re not sure what to do, putting off … [Read more...] about Tick Those Unpleasant Tasks Off Your To-Do List