Law Office Manager

Your career

Have you been ghosted by a colleague?

By Lynne Curry Question: At first, I believed my coworker’s BS. “Jenna” and I have been good friends for years, and I helped get her job as our managing partner’s executive assistant. So, when Jenna said she accidentally left my name off the meeting invite, I believed her. But it happened again. And again. I can’t stand meetings, but they matter in our company and … [Read more...] about Have you been ghosted by a colleague?

How to manage change

"The only constant in life is change." This timeless adage rings especially true in the dynamic world of legal practice. As a law office administrator, navigating changes—whether they stem from adopting new technology, undergoing organizational restructuring, or implementing revised policies and procedures—is essential for maintaining efficiency and fostering growth within your … [Read more...] about How to manage change

How to turn setback into comebacks

In the demanding realm of law office management, setbacks are part and parcel of the journey. Whether it's a key staff member leaving unexpectedly, a significant case taking an unexpected turn, or new regulations disrupting your workflow, these challenges can feel daunting. However, with the right approach and strategies, you can transform these setbacks into powerful … [Read more...] about How to turn setback into comebacks

What it takes for a good manager to be a good leader

A good manager is often synonymous with being a good leader, but it’s important to recognize that while there is overlap between the two roles, they are not identical. A manager typically has responsibilities related to organizing, planning, and controlling processes and resources to achieve specific goals. On the other hand, a leader focuses on inspiring, motivating, and … [Read more...] about What it takes for a good manager to be a good leader

8 rules for running your office right, especially if it’s a small one

The smaller the office, the more the manager works under a microscope. Everybody sees everything that's going on and everything the manager does. For a new manager in that setting, the microscope gets even stronger because staff are watching to see who their new boss is. And if that new manager has been promoted from within, the scrutiny is unforgiving because it's coming … [Read more...] about 8 rules for running your office right, especially if it’s a small one

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

7 ways to get the most out of a work conference

Conference season is back in full swing after the summer break. Are there events you and your staff will attend for education, product knowledge, or networking? As a law office administrator, attending conferences and trade shows can be a valuable opportunity to learn about new trends and technologies in the legal industry. However, with all the hustle and bustle of travel, it … [Read more...] about 7 ways to get the most out of a work conference

7 ways to communicate power when you write and speak

As a law office manager, your words—both written and spoken—carry weight. They reflect your authority, set the tone for your team, and influence how others perceive you. Communicating power isn’t about being aggressive or domineering; it’s about exuding confidence, clarity, and competence. Here are seven strategies to help you convey power effectively when you write and … [Read more...] about 7 ways to communicate power when you write and speak

When staffers bully their supervisor

By Lynne Curry She came to work early, rarely took a full lunch break, and almost always worked past five p.m. Six of her nine staffers considered her an effective leader. She ran a successful department until her other three direct reports drove her out. Empowered by their victory, this “gang of three” ran off two successive managers before the company’s senior … [Read more...] about When staffers bully their supervisor

Grow your network and grow your career

Networking is a valuable activity for law office managers to build connections, stay informed about industry trends, and create opportunities for growth. Here is some advice on how to make the most of networking opportunities: Attend Legal Conferences and Seminars: Legal conferences and seminars offer an excellent platform to network with peers, legal professionals, … [Read more...] about Grow your network and grow your career