By Lynne Curry She came to work early, rarely took a full lunch break, and almost always worked past five p.m. Six of her nine staffers considered her an effective leader. She ran a successful department until her other three direct reports drove her out. Empowered by their victory, this “gang of three” ran off two successive managers before the company’s senior … [Read more...] about When staffers bully their supervisor
Topics
Navigating client confidentiality in the digital age
In today's technology-driven world, managing client confidentiality is more complex than ever before. As a law office manager, you're at the forefront of ensuring that sensitive client information remains secure and protected, even as you embrace the tools and conveniences of the digital age. This responsibility is critical—not only for maintaining your firm's reputation but … [Read more...] about Navigating client confidentiality in the digital age
How to become a cost-cutting genius for your law office
Becoming a cost-cutting genius for your law office doesn’t mean you have to make drastic cuts that could affect the quality of your services. It’s all about being smart with your resources and finding ways to operate more efficiently. Start by reviewing your office expenses regularly. Are there subscriptions or services you’re paying for that aren’t being fully utilized? Maybe … [Read more...] about How to become a cost-cutting genius for your law office
Grow your network and grow your career
Networking is a valuable activity for law office managers to build connections, stay informed about industry trends, and create opportunities for growth. Here is some advice on how to make the most of networking opportunities: Attend Legal Conferences and Seminars: Legal conferences and seminars offer an excellent platform to network with peers, legal professionals, … [Read more...] about Grow your network and grow your career
Model Policy: Workplace violence and office security
It has become imperative, and in many states a legal requirement, that employers implement programs to prevent violence at the workplace. The centerpiece of the prevention effort is to adopt a written policy on workplace violence. … [Read more...] about Model Policy: Workplace violence and office security
Personal client attention doubles the money-making referrals
When a North Carolina office realized its referrals from clients were dwindling, it responded by setting up a plan to ensure maximum personal contact with the clients. Within the first year the plan was in place, the personal injury firm doubled its referrals. The focus was placed on communications, fast response to calls, maintaining contact throughout the year and keeping … [Read more...] about Personal client attention doubles the money-making referrals
You should learn your way around office politics
By Lynne Curry Question: I like my new job, my supervisor, and my coworkers, except for a woman I’ve nicknamed “the queen.” The problem began as soon as my first all-hands meeting ended. Several of my coworkers invited me to have drinks with them after work. The queen overhead because she and I were heading into a pre-planned meeting that lasted until the end of the … [Read more...] about You should learn your way around office politics
Getting ahead: Tasks to tackle in the last two weeks of August
As a law office manager, you know that September often brings a surge of activity. Whether it’s new cases, court dates, or the ramping up of ongoing projects, the post-summer period can be intense. That’s why the last two weeks of August are the perfect time to focus on tasks that will set your office up for success in the months ahead. Here are some key jobs to consider … [Read more...] about Getting ahead: Tasks to tackle in the last two weeks of August
Law class of 2023 shatters employment records
A new report shows the law school graduating class of 2023 broke records for employment. The National Association for Law Placement (NALP) has released its Employment for the Class of 2023 — Selected Findings, a summary of key outcomes from the upcoming annual Jobs & JDs: Employment and Salaries of New Law School Graduates. NALP began tracking employment data in 1974, … [Read more...] about Law class of 2023 shatters employment records
How to outsmart manipulators in the workplace
By Lynne Curry If you’re locked in a work relationship with a manipulative boss or coworkers who learn you’re an easy mark, they’ll manipulate you until you recognize their games and find ways to outsmart them. Here’s what you need to understand and do to stop manipulators in their tracks. Start by understanding who and what manipulators are. Next, realize how you’re … [Read more...] about How to outsmart manipulators in the workplace