By Mike O’Brien bio This is my periodic update prepared for interested HR professionals trying to deal with the complex American employment laws. Federal Appeals Court says sexual orientation bias is illegal: A federal appeals court (covering Wisconsin, Illinois and Indiana) has ruled, for the first time, that existing law prohibiting discrimination based on sex … [Read more...] about Employment Law Update for HR Managers
Blog
Like a Boss: Traits and behaviors
By Michelle Spencer bio As I was reviewing articles for the Like a Boss series, a few themes kept appearing as key areas of focus for bosses: Communication, Performance Management, and Relationships. If you are looking for ideas for leadership training, any of these would be a good place to start. First and foremost, people want open, honest, and … [Read more...] about Like a Boss: Traits and behaviors
Why sometimes firms have to say “no”
By Bob Denney bio The Managing Partner of one of our clients once said to me, "The hardest thing in the world for most lawyers is to decline an opportunity for increased business, even when it's because of a conflict or a question of ethics." There's obviously no question about having to say "No" in those situations. But there are other opportunities for … [Read more...] about Why sometimes firms have to say “no”
5 ways to end generational stereotyping in your organization
By Dr. William A. Schiemann bio These days, the Millennial Generation is hyped, perhaps even more than Baby Boomers were hyped in the 1950s and 1960s. As I meet with executives around the globe, there is widespread confusion and misunderstanding about generational differences. This is creating stereotypes that are inappropriate, rarely true, and costing … [Read more...] about 5 ways to end generational stereotyping in your organization
Is one lawyer putting your firm at risk of a social media firefight?
By Lynne Curry, Ph.D, SPHR bio Consider this scenario: One of your firm's most successful attorneys is also one of the most abrasive individuals you've met. He doubles down whenever he gets into any kind of skirmish, no matter who it's with—a client, an employee, or even someone on the street. You've tried for years to get this "Darth Vader" to change. No such luck. … [Read more...] about Is one lawyer putting your firm at risk of a social media firefight?
What we’re overlooking when it comes to time management
By Brady Wilson bio Many times, I've seen business leaders send their employees off to time management courses in the hopes that the training will help increase engagement and productivity. Many times, I've seen those same leaders show bewilderment when the training doesn't seem to have any impact—or worse yet, results in employees being less engaged and less … [Read more...] about What we’re overlooking when it comes to time management
Growing your law firm with a carefully crafted blog
By Brenda A. Barnes bio First, there were firm newsletters. Law firms sent them out as a way to build community among existing and prospective clients. They were a branding tool that also fostered loyalty. Then, the internet accelerated that formula, allowing law firms to not only save money on print and mailing, but also push this content marketing vehicle out … [Read more...] about Growing your law firm with a carefully crafted blog
Why you need to draw the line on unethical behavior
By Dr. Steve M. Cohen Some of the most difficult office decisions come down to ethics, and some of the most difficult ethical decisions often seem mundane at first glance. Regardless, I recommend caution because the potential pitfalls are so serious. I have a client who hired someone away from a competitor. The first week on the job, this new hire produced "intelligence" … [Read more...] about Why you need to draw the line on unethical behavior
Accountability and your legal staff: The effects on your law practice
By Elizabeth M. Miller, MBA bio I am a great proponent of accountability for everyone in a law firm including myself and the attorneys. It is the method by which a law firm can measure that clients are receiving the best possible service from your firm. An accountable law firm starts with leaders who first hold themselves accountable. After all, we do have to lead by … [Read more...] about Accountability and your legal staff: The effects on your law practice
Reward good employees by removing bad ones
By Steve M. Cohen bio I'm sure you've seen advice regarding employee bonuses and incentive systems, including some that are quite complex. The idea is that to achieve a high-performance workplace, you need to motivate employees and achieve maximum efficiency. None of this is wrong, but I often suggest another strategy that surprises a lot of people: get rid of the … [Read more...] about Reward good employees by removing bad ones