By Lynne Curry Question: I run a small firm. When I advertised for a new hire, I didn’t find anyone who had the right skill set. “Will” applied. Although he lacked the skills I sought, he interviewed well and said he was willing to learn everything necessary to become my No. 1 employee. I took a chance on him and invested months in training him. He shadowed me, developed … [Read more...] about How to handle a scamming, scheming staffer
Working with lawyers
6 essential tips for law office administrators to attract more clients
As a law office administrator, one of your key responsibilities is to ensure the growth and success of your firm. A crucial aspect of achieving this goal is consistently attracting new clients. In an increasingly competitive legal landscape, it's essential to employ effective strategies that can help your law office stand out. Consider these tips to help you gain more clients … [Read more...] about 6 essential tips for law office administrators to attract more clients
The power of emotional intelligence: A guide for law office managers
In today’s dynamic healthcare environment, the role of a law office manager is more challenging than ever. Not only do you need to efficiently manage the administrative tasks, but you also play a crucial role in maintaining a positive work environment and fostering effective communication among your team members. This is where emotional intelligence (EI) comes into play. In … [Read more...] about The power of emotional intelligence: A guide for law office managers
5 reasons to turn down a promotion … and how to do so tactfully
Should you take a promotion if it is offered to you? Perhaps, but it might not be your best move. Consider these reasons to turn down a promotion and stay right where you are—successfully managing your law office. Loss of work-life balance: Consider whether the promotion would significantly impact your work-life balance. Assess if the increased responsibilities would … [Read more...] about 5 reasons to turn down a promotion … and how to do so tactfully
Associate compensation plans: The 20-year salary swing
By Brenda A. Barnes and Camille Stell While the salary comparisons from 2000 to now may not seem important to your small or mid-size firm, keep in mind the trickle-down effect means: Unrealistic expectations of salary from recent law school graduates As your associates compare salaries with their colleagues at larger firms (who often have lockstep pay, at least for new … [Read more...] about Associate compensation plans: The 20-year salary swing
Learn to recognize and avoid burnout
Law office management can be a stressful occupation as it involves financial and compliance responsibilities and balancing the needs of partners, associates, staff and clients in a fast-paced environment. Here are some tips for law office administrators on why they might suffer burnout, how to recognize it, and what they can do to prevent and deal with it. Understand the … [Read more...] about Learn to recognize and avoid burnout
Whatever you call it, negative workplace behavior is expensive
By Dr. Steve M. Cohen Whether you call it harassment, bullying or something else, negative workplace behavior can be expensive for any business. Unhappy employees today are also more likely to seek legal recourse against their employers, a fact that even legal office managers should keep in mind. Although the legal field is highly professional, it’s also staffed with human … [Read more...] about Whatever you call it, negative workplace behavior is expensive
Compliance and conduct rules for selling a law practice
By Brenda A. Barnes Selling the practice is one of the possible routes to law firm succession. For a law office administrator helping create a succession plan, here are some things to consider: According to ABA Rule 1.17 Sale of Law Practice, “A lawyer or a law firm may sell or purchase a law practice or an area of law practice, including goodwill, if the following … [Read more...] about Compliance and conduct rules for selling a law practice
6 tips for remembering names
It’s easy to remember a client's name when you have their appointment details or case file open in front of you. It’s a lot harder when you meet someone away from these paper or electronic prompts. People like to be recognized and remembered. In the office, it’s reassuring for your clients. In other settings, remembering names can help you connect and network with people. In … [Read more...] about 6 tips for remembering names
Tame those office temperature tantrums!
Disputes over office temperature are relatively common among office staff. According to a study conducted by the International Facility Management Association, more than 50% of office workers report being unhappy with the temperature in their workplace. This dissatisfaction can lead to heated disputes or chilly relations among office staff, as people have different preferences … [Read more...] about Tame those office temperature tantrums!