By Dr. Steve M. Cohen There is a managerial question that is often overlooked: Is your office a community or an organization? A community is, by definition, inclusive. An organization is, by definition, exclusive. Let’s use the military as an example of an exclusive organization. When people enlist, there are ranks to climb with each level being more selective and more … [Read more...] about Managers, are you creating a community or an organization?
Managing staff
Everybody needs a break from work
As a law office manager, you understand the importance of keeping your staff productive and efficient. However, it's also important to recognize the role that breaks play in achieving these goals. For both you and your staff, it's tempting to continue powering through day after day without taking scheduled breaks and lunch periods. In this article, we'll discuss the importance … [Read more...] about Everybody needs a break from work
Consider an employee complaint line
By Dr. Steve M. Cohen A client told me that they eliminated their 800 number complaint line. When I asked why, they said, “All we got were complaints!” I disagreed. Whether they are from employees or customers, complaints are invaluable because the feedback provides an opportunity for examination. I realize the protocol might be slightly different for a medical office, but … [Read more...] about Consider an employee complaint line
Valentine’s Day a chance to show appreciation at work
Valentine’s Day, coming up on Feb. 14, is often focused on a celebration of romantic love. It can also be a day to express affection and appreciation for others, and it is a great opportunity to show kindness and generosity at the office. Here are some ways that you can encourage acts of kindness at your workplace on Valentine’s Day: Write notes of appreciation: Take a … [Read more...] about Valentine’s Day a chance to show appreciation at work
What does FMLA require of a law office employer?
One of the employment laws that affect how you manage your staff is the The Family and Medical Leave Act (FMLA). This is a federal law that requires certain employers to provide their employees with up to 12 weeks of unpaid, job-protected leave per year for certain qualifying reasons. These reasons include the birth or adoption of a child, the care of a family member with a … [Read more...] about What does FMLA require of a law office employer?
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
Six mistakes to avoid when you mentor millennials in your law office
Somebody probably helped you move ahead in your career in law office administration. Now it’s your turn to help another person progress in your field. Chances are this younger colleague is a millennial, born between 1981 and 1996. Here are some potential pitfalls to be aware of when mentoring millennials: Assumptions about their values and motivations: It is important to … [Read more...] about Six mistakes to avoid when you mentor millennials in your law office
Managers hold the key to employee engagement and retention
With many workplaces now allowing hybrid work, new complexities in managing the workplace are emerging, says the The Conference Board in a new report. Recent evidence suggests that productivity among US workers has declined significantly from heights experienced during the pandemic. Remote and hybrid work arrangements combined with ill-prepared managers may be a cause. Why it … [Read more...] about Managers hold the key to employee engagement and retention
Praise is nice but a year-end bonus is better
A year-end bonus can be a powerful tool for reminding your staff their hard work and commitment and the company’s overall growth and success are closely intertwined. And according to a survey of employers, 50% of companies plan to award year-end bonuses in 2022. While this is down from 63% last year, it’s a sign that staff retention remains top of mind for many … [Read more...] about Praise is nice but a year-end bonus is better
Do you just open your mouth and let the words fly?
By Lynne Curry When you’re upset with another person, do you open your mouth and let your emotions erupt and words fly? If you want to resolve an interpersonal conflict, you can’t afford to blast the other person. While you may feel vindicated, you risk the other person attacking back, getting defensive or shutting down If you want things to become better and not worse … [Read more...] about Do you just open your mouth and let the words fly?