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Home » Your career
YOUR CAREER

‘I’m a threat to my boss because I’m smarter’

May 24, 2023 by

By Lynne Curry Over the years of your career, you may have found yourself on both sides of the following situation, first as a bright young staff member and later as a manager dealing with a brash new employee. Question: I am a threat to my supervisor. It’s not my fault, but it may cost me my job. Things were going well between my supervisor and I until last month. In an all-hands meeting, the CEO called on me, saying, “I know who can answer that question. Michael, can you explain it to everyone?” After I finished answering the question, I saw my supervisor’s face, and knew I’d pay a price for being called on. She’s been difficult to deal with ever since. She either ignores or jabs at me… . . . read more

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The power of emotional intelligence: A guide for law office managers

May 23, 2023 by

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 this article, we will explore what emotional intelligence is, its significance in management, and provide practical steps to develop and enhance your emotional intelligence skills. Understanding Emotional Intelligence: Emotional intelligence refers to the ability to recognize and manage your own emotions while effectively understanding and responding to the emotions of others. It comprises several key components, including self-awareness, self-regulation, empathy, and social skills. When applied in a managerial role, emotional intelligence… . . . read more

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EMPLOYMENT LAW UPDATE

Non-compete agreements and deceiving your employer

May 22, 2023 by

By Lynne Curry   Question: I was so stoked when the premier firm in my area of professional services hired me that I did something I’ve wanted to do for a long time. I told my former manager what I thought of her. She ordered me to leave her company immediately. No problem, I had a new job to go to. I also had my entire future mapped out. I’d work for my new employer for a year, learn everything I could, and then start my business. I told all my friends my new job was the ideal stepping stone. On my first day when I went through orientation, my new manager handed me an employment agreement that included a noncompete agreement. It was a complete shock. I’d never seen… . . . read more

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Where do I go from here? Advancement opportunities for law office managers

May 19, 2023 by

As a dedicated law office manager, you play a crucial role in ensuring the smooth operation of your firm. From overseeing administrative tasks to managing personnel and finances, your skills and expertise are invaluable. However, have you ever wondered what lies beyond your current position? Here’s a look at career opportunities available for law office managers, highlighting potential paths for professional growth and development. Legal operations manager: As a law office manager, you already possess a deep understanding of the legal industry’s inner workings. Transitioning to a legal operations manager role allows you to broaden your horizons while leveraging your existing knowledge and skills. In this capacity, you would focus on optimizing the efficiency and effectiveness of legal processes, streamlining workflows, and implementing innovative solutions. This position often involves strategic… . . . read more

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YOUR CAREER

5 reasons to turn down a promotion … and how to do so tactfully

May 17, 2023 by

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 require longer hours, increased stress, or decreased flexibility, which may affect your overall quality of life. Misalignment with career goals: Reflect on whether the promotion aligns with your long-term professional aspirations. Assess if it offers growth opportunities in areas that you are passionate about or if it veers your career path away from your goals. Lack of interest or passion: Evaluate whether the new role aligns with your interests and passions. Consider if it takes… . . . read more

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YOUR CAREER

Cultivate these 7 habits for success

May 2, 2023 by

As an office manager, you are responsible for the efficient operation of your workplace. Your role requires you to balance multiple tasks, manage diverse teams, and keep things organized. To become a highly effective office manager, you can take inspiration from Stephen Covey’s timeless book, “The 7 Habits of Highly Effective People.” Here are some tips based on Covey’s teachings to help you excel in your role: Be Proactive—Being proactive means taking charge of your actions and outcomes. As an office manager, you have the power to influence how your workplace functions. You can start by identifying the key challenges and opportunities in your workplace and taking proactive steps to address them. For instance, if you notice that communication is a problem, you can set up regular team meetings, implement… . . . read more

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YOUR CAREER

Snappy comebacks WHEN you need them

April 27, 2023 by

By Lynne Curry The snappy comeback you wish you’d had when “Jim” sniped at you in the meeting, and you sat frozen and speechless. The silencing comment you wish you’d given “Brenda” when you walked past the break room and you heard her dissing you. Why don’t those comebacks arrive when you need them? Here’s why… When you experience a verbal attack or another threat, your habitual neural pathways get tripped. Your body moves into high-alert survival mode. Your body tenses and heart rate speeds up; you breathe rapidly and shallowly. You feel flushed or sweaty; turn white or red; and may feel nauseated or a knot in your stomach. The solution? Pause and breathe. By pausing and slowing your breathing, you activate your parasympathetic system, slow down your heartbeat,… . . . read more

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YOUR CAREER

What happened to weekends?

April 19, 2023 by

By Lynne Curry If you’ve lost your weekends to work projects begging to be finished and annoying pop-up employer emails, you’re not alone. According to ActivTrak’s survey of 134,260 employees who worked for 900 separate organizations, employees work an average of 6.6 hours, almost a full work day, each weekend. If this fits you, consider these questions: Has your job taken over too much of your life? What do you need to do to recover your weekend? The vanishing weekend For many managers and employees, weekends dwindled in exchange for a flexible work/life balance. You wanted to attend exercise classes at noon on Tuesdays and Thursdays? Go for it. You drop your kids off at nine a.m. and pick them up at three p.m.? No problem, use your weekend to check up… . . . read more

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MANAGING STAFF

Is it time to take the office team out to lunch?

April 11, 2023 by

You might be considering a team lunch for your office staff to celebrate a milestone or to announce upcoming changes. Hosting a business lunch in a restaurant can be a fantastic way to create a professional and enjoyable setting for discussing business matters. Here are some steps to consider when planning a team lunch in a restaurant: Choose the right restaurant: Select a restaurant that is appropriate for the occasion and consider the atmosphere, food, drinks, and location of the restaurant. Ensure that the restaurant can accommodate your team size and dietary requirements. Make a reservation: Reserve the restaurant in advance to ensure that you have a table available, particularly if you are hosting a large group or if the restaurant is popular. This will prevent any delays or disruptions…. . . . read more

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EDUCATION

7 ways to get the most out of a work conference

March 24, 2023 by

Conference season is in full swing, after three years of postponed and cancelled events. Are there events you and your staff will attend for education, product knowledge, or networking? As a law office administrator, attending conferences and trade shows can be a valuable opportunity to learn about new trends and technologies in the legal industry. However, with all the hustle and bustle of travel, it can be difficult to make the most of your time at these events. It is important to use your time well, given the cost of travel, registration, food, accommodation and time away from work. Here are some tips to help you make good use of your time when traveling to a work-related conference or trade show. Plan ahead: Before you even leave for the event, take… . . . read more

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