By Lynne Curry bio Question: We have a messy situation we need to investigate involving 12 and possibly more employees at remote locations. Nine months ago, we laid off our human resources officer. The accounting manager and I inherited many of her duties. Both of us have investigated minor issues in each of our departments, and our former human resources officer left a … [Read more...] about How to conduct a virtual investigation
Managing staff
Happy Thanksgiving: Here are four good ways to get your work done before the long weekend
Many managers will agree that the most difficult part of their job is finding time to get all the work done. And, while everyone loves a day off or a long weekend, it’s hard to make up for any lost workdays. So here are four good time management recommendations from workflow advisor Jason Womack, leadership speaker and author of “Your Best Just Got Better: Work Smarter, … [Read more...] about Happy Thanksgiving: Here are four good ways to get your work done before the long weekend
Employee morale and your firm’s productivity: 6 easy ways to boost both
By Elizabeth M. Miller bio Employees' attitudes have changed over the years. Good, loyal employees want more than a paycheck and health benefits. Studies have shown that compensation does not even rate in the top 5 of what makes an employee happy with their job. I believe happy employees are productive employees and anyone who believes otherwise is overlooking the … [Read more...] about Employee morale and your firm’s productivity: 6 easy ways to boost both
Manage your law office’s holiday party liability risks
You may be hosting a big holiday party for your employees this December. And, like many law offices do, you may be serving liquor at that party. That's fine. Just make sure you understand what you're getting yourself into. Relax. We're not going to lecture you on the dangers of drinking and driving. No sense preaching to the choir. But what we can do to help you out is … [Read more...] about Manage your law office’s holiday party liability risks
7 steps to setting up year-end bonuses for admin staff
As a law office manager, one of your critical responsibilities is to ensure that your administrative staff feel valued and appreciated for their hard work throughout the year. One effective way to achieve this is by structuring end-of-year bonuses that recognize and reward their dedication. Here are the basics of creating a fair and motivating bonus structure for your admin … [Read more...] about 7 steps to setting up year-end bonuses for admin staff
The Israel/Hamas conflict rocks our workplace
By Lynne Curry Question: I supervise a tight-knit team of professionals that work hard and play hard. To describe them as intense would be an understatement. They all care about current events and their heated discussions add spice to the workday. Even more important, their commitment to improving the world is core to why they’re willing to work for low salaries in our small … [Read more...] about The Israel/Hamas conflict rocks our workplace
Model Tool: Candidate rejection letter, job application
Why you need this model tool: After you've made a hiring decision, you have an obligation to get back to the people who applied for the position but did not get the job. How this model tool helps you: It can be difficult to know what to say to an applicant who was not hired. How to use this model tool: This model tool is a letter that can be customized for your firm and … [Read more...] about Model Tool: Candidate rejection letter, job application
Model Tool: Catastrophic Leave Program
Rules regarding an employee’s right to various types of leave differ from state of state, but most of the rules require that a leave-sharing program be in writing. … [Read more...] about Model Tool: Catastrophic Leave Program
Craft a competitive benefits package for your law office staff
In today's highly competitive job market, attracting and retaining top talent in your law office is more challenging than ever. One of the key factors that can set your office apart is the benefits package you offer to your employees. A comprehensive and competitive benefits package not only helps you attract the best candidates but also ensures your current staff remains … [Read more...] about Craft a competitive benefits package for your law office staff
How to retain your office staff
Retaining office staff is crucial for maintaining a stable and productive work environment. High turnover can be costly and disrupt the workflow. Here are some tips to help you retain your office staff: Hiring the Right People: Start by hiring individuals who are a good fit for your organization's culture and values. Ensure that their skills and qualifications align with … [Read more...] about How to retain your office staff