Law Office Manager

Managing staff

Managers, are you creating a community or an organization?

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?

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

How to support an employee who chooses to come out at work

Supporting a staffer who has chosen to come out at work can be an important way to create a welcoming and inclusive workplace for all employees. Coming out of the closet, often shortened to coming out, is a metaphor used to describe LGBT people’s self-disclosure of their sexual orientation, romantic orientation, or gender identity. Here are some ways you can support an … [Read more...] about How to support an employee who chooses to come out at work

Still managing remote staff? 8 tips to do it better

As lawyers continue to drag their feet about returning to work at the office, many legal support staff also want to continue to work remotely. Unless your law office is taking a hard stance about working on the premises, it's likely you will continue to supervise some of your team from afar. While managing a remote workforce can present its own set of challenges, it can also … [Read more...] about Still managing remote staff? 8 tips to do it better