The U.S. Equal Employment Opportunity Commission (EEOC) has proposed new guidance on harassment in the workplace. Enforcement Guidance on Harassment in the Workplace was published in the federal register Oct. 2, and public comment period is closing Nov. 1. The EEOC first released a proposed guidance on workplace harassment for public comment in 2017, but it was not … [Read more...] about EEOC proposes updated workplace harassment guidance to protect worker
Workplace Safety
When a full-time employee works a second full-time job
By Lynne Curry Question: I supervise a talented but difficult employee, whose performance has always been spotty but recently went downhill. Lately, “Scott” has dragged himself into the office every morning. He looks exhausted. His eyelids half-close during staff meetings. Because I felt concerned, I asked him if he was okay. He said he was just working too hard. He … [Read more...] about When a full-time employee works a second full-time job
15 projects for the last quarter of the year
Running out of things to do? Just kidding. But in case you are, here are some projects to consider for the last quarter of the year. Financial Review and Budgeting: a. Review the year-to-date financial statements to assess the firm's financial health. b. Prepare a budget for the upcoming year, considering revenue, expenses, and capital investments. c. Ensure all client … [Read more...] about 15 projects for the last quarter of the year
Second job or side hustle: How to work with moonlighting employees
Dealing with moonlighting employees can be a delicate situation for an office manager. Moonlighting refers to employees holding a second job or pursuing other sources of income outside of their primary employment. While moonlighting itself might not be inherently negative, it can potentially impact an employee’s performance and commitment to their primary job. Here’s how an … [Read more...] about Second job or side hustle: How to work with moonlighting employees
Before, during and after a flood: Is your law office prepared?
Flood preparedness is an ongoing process. Regularly review and update your flood preparedness plan to ensure it remains effective and aligned with any changes in your law office's operations and environment. Here is a checklist to help your office prepare for and recover from a flood. Pre-Flood Preparedness Risk Assessment: Identify flood-prone areas near the law office … [Read more...] about Before, during and after a flood: Is your law office prepared?
Employee safety briefing: Summer high temperatures
Dear Team, As the summer heat intensifies, we want to ensure your well-being and safety both in the office and during your daily activities. High temperatures can pose health risks and affect your performance, so it’s important to take necessary precautions. This safety briefing will provide you with valuable guidelines for staying safe during summer high … [Read more...] about Employee safety briefing: Summer high temperatures
How to pick the right cleaning company for your law office
Maintaining a clean and well-organized environment is crucial for any law office. As a law office manager, one of your responsibilities is to ensure that the office space is clean, presentable, and conducive to productivity. Hiring a professional office cleaning company can provide the expertise and efficiency needed to maintain a pristine workspace. Here are eight factors to … [Read more...] about How to pick the right cleaning company for your law office
Create an effective disaster plan for your law office
Fires, floods, storms, earthquakes, power outages, or civil unrest: These and other disasters could endanger you and your employees as well as the continuation of your law office. As a law office manager, it is your responsibility to ensure that your office is well-prepared to handle various types of disasters, ranging from natural calamities to technological disruptions. … [Read more...] about Create an effective disaster plan for your law office
How to create a safe and inclusive environment for the LGBTQ+ community in your law office
As a law office manager, it is your responsibility to foster a workplace environment that values diversity, inclusivity, and respect for all individuals. Creating a safe space for members of the LGBTQ+ community is not only a legal and ethical imperative but also a reflection of your commitment to equality. This article aims to provide you with practical strategies and … [Read more...] about How to create a safe and inclusive environment for the LGBTQ+ community in your law office
Don’t delay if you have to deliver bad news
By Lynne Curry “It’s not the difficult conversations that bite you the hardest,” I told the manager. “It’s the ones you put off until too late.” I listened to the manager’s reasons and told him, “Here are the risks you take. You dread telling ‘Robert’ what and how he needs to improve because he lashes out at you and remains sullen for days after you’ve counseled him. You … [Read more...] about Don’t delay if you have to deliver bad news