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
leadership
7 good habits for an office manager
Developing good habits can help you become a more effective leader, enhance productivity, and improve the overall work environment. Here are some habits that can help you become a successful office manager. Prioritize tasks As an office manager, you are responsible for managing multiple tasks and priorities. Prioritizing tasks can help you stay organized and ensure … [Read more...] about 7 good habits for an office manager
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
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
Empathy an important workplace leadership quality
Empathy is the ability to understand and share the feelings, thoughts, and perspectives of others. It involves not only recognizing and acknowledging the emotions of others but also demonstrating care and concern for their well-being. In the context of a workplace leader, empathy is essential for several reasons: Building Trust: Empathetic leaders are … [Read more...] about Empathy an important workplace leadership quality
9 tips for getting your lawyers onto the speaking circuit
One effective way to showcase your firm's expertise, build brand recognition, and enhance professional development is by encouraging your lawyers to participate in conferences and web events as speakers. By leveraging these platforms, your attorneys can make a significant impact, both individually and collectively. Consider these benefits that arise from encouraging your … [Read more...] about 9 tips for getting your lawyers onto the speaking circuit
5 ways to help your team members overcome burnout
The last several years have been rough on everyone in the workplace, including law offices. Chances are someone on your team has had enough of the pressures from work, family, finances, the public health emergency and other turmoil in society. As a manager, you want to help. Here are four ideas to get you started: Help organize and prioritize work into manageable and … [Read more...] about 5 ways to help your team members overcome burnout
Team building that goes beyond rah-rah to real
By Lynne Curry Question: We have lousy morale at our office. Our senior leaders like to say the problem started during the pandemic, but that’s just a lie they tell themselves. The problem started long before that, when they got so focused on the money they were making and the bonuses they were getting, they forgot employees mattered. Their bubble burst when the … [Read more...] about Team building that goes beyond rah-rah to real
Coming out at work
By Lynne Curry “He’s talented but anti-social,” the business owner said of his accounting manager when he called. “At first, we thought the problem was that “Gene” was a finance type and kind of a geek. But there have been odd comments from others over the last two years,” explained the business owner as he asked for my help as an HR consultant. “The latest problem is he … [Read more...] about Coming out at work
3 questions to ask in your daily standup meetings
A daily standup meeting can be a highly effective way to keep your staff motivated and moving on important tasks. This 10-minute meeting, used in a variety of workplaces, provides an opportunity for a quick check-in on the day’s priorities. As the name implies, participants stand up—a posture that discourages long discussion. The meeting is so short no one bothers to find a … [Read more...] about 3 questions to ask in your daily standup meetings