By Lynne Curry Question: When I returned to my job last week from my annual three-week vacation, I stopped in the breakroom for coffee. To my surprise, my colleagues’ conversations didn’t center on the election like they had before I left. Instead, my coworkers buzzed with excitement about “goals” and “results.” I asked one coworker, “What’s up?” and he told me he … [Read more...] about The October Theory: An Easy Strategy for Improving Your Work Life
Your career
Winning at Office Politics
By Lynne Curry Question: I lost another opportunity this week, one on which I had my heart set. It involved working on a strategic team with individuals pulled from all areas of the company to develop key initiatives for our future. I had so many ideas of exciting directions we could take that I’m heartsick I lost out. The woman that corporate management selected … [Read more...] about Winning at Office Politics
10 ways your law firm can observe Pro Bono Week 2024
Pro Bono Week, sponsored by the American Bar Association’s Standing Committee on Pro Bono and Public Service, is a national celebration that highlights the outstanding volunteer work lawyers provide to those who cannot afford legal services. It's a week dedicated to recognizing the importance of pro bono work and encouraging attorneys to give back to their communities, such as … [Read more...] about 10 ways your law firm can observe Pro Bono Week 2024
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
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