Here are five easy rules that will make the job of managing difficult people a little easier—or at least make it go more smoothly. They are outlined by Monica Wofford, MBA, CSP, principal of Contagious Companies, a leadership training company, and author of "Make Difficult People Disappear." Rule #1: Address problems consistently Face the problem people. And don't be … [Read more...] about Got troublesome staff? These five easy rules may make your job easier
Working with lawyers
How to create a good mental health work environment for employees
Most people are aware that employees with a physical illness or disability are entitled to a reasonable accommodation under the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) or time off under the Family and Medical Leave Act (FMLA). But it's not as commonly known that those with mental disabilities are also covered by the ADA and FMLA, according to a new XpertHR report on mental health … [Read more...] about How to create a good mental health work environment for employees
How to create a budget for your law firm
While many attorneys cringe at the thought of creating a budget, there are five important reasons why your law firm needs one, says Elizabeth Miller, an independent law firm administrator and consultant. Budgets help law firms achieve long-term goals, such as growing their businesses or buying an office instead of renting office space. You can't spend money you … [Read more...] about How to create a budget for your law firm
Sample Budget Spreadsheet
Why you need this budget spreadsheet: While many attorneys cringe at the thought of creating a budget, there are several important reasons why your law firm needs one, including helping you prepare for unexpected expenses. How this budget spreadsheet helps you: This 12-month, month-by-month spreadsheet lists some common fixed expenses of a law firm. How to use this budget … [Read more...] about Sample Budget Spreadsheet
Do compensation plans drive succession planning results?
By Brenda A. Barnes bio Compensation—or lack thereof—drives many, if not most, succession plans. The most obvious reason for a succession plan is to compensate principals fairly for the firm they've built with their entrepreneurial spirit, including the physical assets and intellectual property they own, and for the money they've invested in their businesses. How to … [Read more...] about Do compensation plans drive succession planning results?
Easy-to-use interview system guarantees a good match between secretary and attorney
For secretarial interviews, an Ohio administrator uses the approach that includes everything—attorney input, staff input and even observations from the receptionist. At the 25-attorrney firm in Dayton, the administrator set up the system not only to make sure the applicant is qualified for the job but also to evaluate how well the secretary will work with the attorney and … [Read more...] about Easy-to-use interview system guarantees a good match between secretary and attorney
7 quick ways to jump-start your firm’s business development efforts
By David H. Freeman bio Every so often, you may think, "I could use some fresh ideas to jump-start the firm's business development efforts." Or perhaps the managing partner is looking to you for some input on how to grow the business. I have some resources that can help. Over the years, I've produced very short business development tips designed to trigger new … [Read more...] about 7 quick ways to jump-start your firm’s business development efforts
Matching your management style to your employee’s personality
Much like one bad apple, one bad employee can spoil the whole bunch in your office, says Dr. Steve Cohen, Principal, Lead HR Consultant at HR Solutions On-Call. Cohen, who is often described as a "mess management" expert for his ability to solve people problems for vulnerable organizations, says the typical job is always built on the issue of technical skills, but … [Read more...] about Matching your management style to your employee’s personality
8 actions to be an exceptional listener
By Stacey Hanke bio Most people consider themselves to be good listeners, finding it hard to admit otherwise. We know listening is vital to building strong relationships with coworkers, managers, clients, and leadership. In fact, it is considered to be the single most important communication skill necessary, valued more highly than speaking, in the business world. We spend … [Read more...] about 8 actions to be an exceptional listener
To-Dos: Your February office checklist
February might be a short month, but there's a lot packed into it. Here are 7 areas you can tackle this month to help improve profits, protect the firm, and boost morale. 1. Review each department's revenues. By now the profit and loss statement for 2022 is in. Review the gross revenues of the firm and the revenues for each department if the firm practices in more than … [Read more...] about To-Dos: Your February office checklist