For the small problems inherent in any office's staff, one manager has two easy solutions: humor and once-a-day positive notes. The humor comes in the form of silly contests to solve equally silly—though very human—problems. "They're nonsensical, but they reduce tension," says the Georgia office manager. One, for example, was an ongoing complaint that nobody replaced the … [Read more...] about Tackle silly problems with silly solutions and boost morale
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When co-workers can’t get along
Julie A. Aarup, office administrator at the Michigan firm Honigman Miller Schwartz and Cohn LLP, had a problem that many office managers face: contrary co-workers. But rather than trying to mediate, Aarup treated the dueling duo to lunch—with a condition. Problem solved. Twice during my nearly 21 years at Honigman Miller Schwartz and Cohn, I had a problem with two coworkers … [Read more...] about When co-workers can’t get along
90-day goals for success and job satisfaction
A manager's success turns on "what other people are able to accomplish." And to a great extent, accomplishments depend "on how happy they are with their jobs. The happier they are, the more they produce." To encourage success and job satisfaction throughout the office, Matthew J. Bower, administrator at Luhrsen Law Group in Sarasota, set up a 90-day goal plan that covers both … [Read more...] about 90-day goals for success and job satisfaction
Monthly events show appreciation for both employees and employer
At Rosenthal, Levy, Simon & Ryles in West Palm Beach, Fla., both the employees and the employer get their share of appreciation during monthly events designed to boost morale. Lori Ann DeMayo, the office administrator, explains how it works: As a small firm we are always looking for economical ways to show our appreciation and to boost the morale of the staff. Each … [Read more...] about Monthly events show appreciation for both employees and employer
‘Favorites’ list source of popular employee awards
When Audrey M. Serban gives her staff members rewards for work done well, she can be sure the reward is something the employee will like. That's because she has a list of 'Favorites' for each staffer, and chooses the gift, large or small, from that. Serban, office manager for Fisher & Phillips, LLP, in Murray Hill, NJ, says, "I thought I'd share an idea that seems to … [Read more...] about ‘Favorites’ list source of popular employee awards
A self evaluation plus a quiz on the handbook
A New Jersey office has increased staff morale as well as performance with an online self evaluation survey. And along with that, it’s working to ensure all the staff know all the rules by setting up an online handbook quiz. First, the self-evaluation survey Michele Adams, office manager for Powers Kirn in Moorestown, NJ, began the self evaluation surveying a few months after … [Read more...] about A self evaluation plus a quiz on the handbook
Why you should include staff at your annual firm retreat this year
While most firms hold an annual retreat for the attorneys, one California firm has expanded the retreat concept to include staff and spouses. According to the administrator, including staff and spouses at the firm’s annual retreat builds a bond between attorneys and staff and creates a positive attitude toward the firm’s goals and values, generating enthusiasm and new … [Read more...] about Why you should include staff at your annual firm retreat this year
Roundtable talks solve office problems
Staff meetings are important, but they generally don't cover things staff have a hand in, says the practice manager of an office in Maine. In addition to hearing company reports and receiving managerial edicts, staff also need time to discuss operational matters and brainstorm solutions for common problems. So the manager decided to implement monthly roundtable discussions. … [Read more...] about Roundtable talks solve office problems
Illinois manager develops unique staff review system that does it all
An Illinois manager has developed a review system that, besides determining raises, increases communication throughout the office and also promotes teamwork. The process is referred to as a 360-degree evaluation, where everybody reviews everybody, including their bosses, their peers, and themselves. And to keep the communication and teamwork open, the reviewing is repeated … [Read more...] about Illinois manager develops unique staff review system that does it all
Good communication speeds up the billing
What's the secret to good collections? "It's all about communicating," says Mary Howe of the New York City office of Hughes Hubbard & Reed. And the communicating extends to the attorneys, and clients' billing staffs. When Howe came to the firm, she took on the new position of director of billing and collections. And one of the firm's first directives was to review the … [Read more...] about Good communication speeds up the billing