How disaster-prepared is the business side of your office? Although large organizations often have good disaster preparedness programs, small to mid-sized offices usually don't. And sadly, because they usually have only one location, they are the ones who suffer most when business is interrupted. Here are some tips that will help you prepare for a disaster and get your … [Read more...] about How to keep the office in business-as-usual shape after any kind of disaster
Workplace Safety
Points to make in your law firm parking policy
With convenience, safety and even prestige at stake, the law office parking lot can be the topic—and scene—of disputes. One way to keep things relatively civil is to establish a parking space policy. Here are some key points to cover in a policy. Space Allocation: Determine how parking spaces will be allocated within the firm's premises. Consider factors such as the total … [Read more...] about Points to make in your law firm parking policy
EEOC proposes updated workplace harassment guidance to protect worker
The U.S. Equal Employment Opportunity Commission (EEOC) has proposed new guidance on harassment in the workplace. Enforcement Guidance on Harassment in the Workplace was published in the federal register Oct. 2, and public comment period is closing Nov. 1. The EEOC first released a proposed guidance on workplace harassment for public comment in 2017, but it was not … [Read more...] about EEOC proposes updated workplace harassment guidance to protect worker
Sample Policy: Halloween Costumes
Creating a policy for dressing up for Halloween in a law office is important to ensure that employees maintain professionalism while still having the opportunity to enjoy the holiday. Here's a suggested policy: [Law Office Name] Halloween Dress-Up Policy Purpose: The purpose of this policy is to allow employees to participate in Halloween festivities while maintaining a … [Read more...] about Sample Policy: Halloween Costumes
Should your staff wear costumes on Halloween?
Chances are someone on your staff is at this very minute planning a wildly inappropriate costume to wear to the office on Halloween. While Halloween can be a festive and enjoyable occasion, the legal profession demands a high level of professionalism and decorum. Here we consider the pros, and cons of permitting Halloween costumes in a law office, along with essential … [Read more...] about Should your staff wear costumes on Halloween?
When a full-time employee works a second full-time job
By Lynne Curry Question: I supervise a talented but difficult employee, whose performance has always been spotty but recently went downhill. Lately, “Scott” has dragged himself into the office every morning. He looks exhausted. His eyelids half-close during staff meetings. Because I felt concerned, I asked him if he was okay. He said he was just working too hard. He … [Read more...] about When a full-time employee works a second full-time job
15 projects for the last quarter of the year
Running out of things to do? Just kidding. But in case you are, here are some projects to consider for the last quarter of the year. Financial Review and Budgeting: a. Review the year-to-date financial statements to assess the firm's financial health. b. Prepare a budget for the upcoming year, considering revenue, expenses, and capital investments. c. Ensure all client … [Read more...] about 15 projects for the last quarter of the year
Second job or side hustle: How to work with moonlighting employees
Dealing with moonlighting employees can be a delicate situation for an office manager. Moonlighting refers to employees holding a second job or pursuing other sources of income outside of their primary employment. While moonlighting itself might not be inherently negative, it can potentially impact an employee’s performance and commitment to their primary job. Here’s how an … [Read more...] about Second job or side hustle: How to work with moonlighting employees
Before, during and after a flood: Is your law office prepared?
Flood preparedness is an ongoing process. Regularly review and update your flood preparedness plan to ensure it remains effective and aligned with any changes in your law office's operations and environment. Here is a checklist to help your office prepare for and recover from a flood. Pre-Flood Preparedness Risk Assessment: Identify flood-prone areas near the law office … [Read more...] about Before, during and after a flood: Is your law office prepared?
Employee safety briefing: Summer high temperatures
Dear Team, As the summer heat intensifies, we want to ensure your well-being and safety both in the office and during your daily activities. High temperatures can pose health risks and affect your performance, so it’s important to take necessary precautions. This safety briefing will provide you with valuable guidelines for staying safe during summer high … [Read more...] about Employee safety briefing: Summer high temperatures