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
Employee benefits
Points to make in your law firm parking policy
With convenience, safety and even prestige at stake, the law office parking lot can be the topic—and scene—of disputes. One way to keep things relatively civil is to establish a parking space policy. Here are some key points to cover in a policy. Space Allocation: Determine how parking spaces will be allocated within the firm's premises. Consider factors such as the total … [Read more...] about Points to make in your law firm parking policy
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
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
You don’t need to bring staff back to the office to build a culture
By Lynne Curry Question: I’m a partner in a professional services firm. We barely survived the pandemic and only because we furloughed all nonessential employees. Those of us who were partners worked unpaid part of the time. We kept ourselves going by promising ourselves that “things would get back to normal.” Our company recovered slowly. We rehired many of the employees we … [Read more...] about You don’t need to bring staff back to the office to build a culture
Start planning now for a smooth holiday season
As autumn colors the landscape, the winter holiday season seems far away. But it's not too soon to plan for the smooth operation of your practice during the festive time. Here are some tasks you should get to soon: Planning and communicating holiday schedules Establishing Clear Holiday Schedules: The first step in effective holiday scheduling is crafting a clear and … [Read more...] about Start planning now for a smooth holiday season
6 reasons to set up an on-site daycare at your law office…and how to do it
In the dynamic and demanding realm of law offices, where legal professionals are dedicated to upholding justice and providing exceptional client service, ensuring the well-being of employees is crucial. An innovative solution that law office managers can consider is the establishment of an on-site daycare facility. This initiative can yield numerous advantages, including … [Read more...] about 6 reasons to set up an on-site daycare at your law office…and how to do it
Employers need to realize some employees would rather quit than return to the office
By Lynne Curry “Doing time, that’s what going into the office to work feels to me.” “Like…jail?” “Like I’m selling my freedom for a paycheck. The bars close behind me every morning.” “Jim’s” employer didn’t want him to resign. “Could you interview him and find out if there’s anything we can do to keep him?” It took less than three minutes to learn—his … [Read more...] about Employers need to realize some employees would rather quit than return to the office