By Lynne Curry When “Heather” met with her boss to request a week of personal leave, she didn’t intend to spill her deepest secrets. But Heather needed someone to understand—the sleepless nights, the gut-wrenching choice, the unbearable fear of raising a child with birth defects. Her boss listened without judgment. Still, in the days that followed, Heather couldn’t … [Read more...] about Oversharing: Can You Please Curb Your TMI?
Managing staff
Managing policies, technology, and support systems for remote and hybrid work
The world of work has undergone a significant transformation, and like many, your law office is probably embracing remote and hybrid work models. As the person who keeps everything running smoothly, you play a crucial role in making this transition successful. Let's talk about how you can effectively implement and manage the necessary policies, technology, and support systems … [Read more...] about Managing policies, technology, and support systems for remote and hybrid work
Checklist: When a staffer departs
When a staff member leaves the law office, it’s important to ensure a smooth and secure transition. This checklist will help you cover all the necessary steps for offboarding a departing staff member, whether they are leaving voluntarily or due to termination. 1. Documentation and Communication Collect Resignation Letter or Termination Notice Ensure that the resignation … [Read more...] about Checklist: When a staffer departs
Revenge Quitting: Why Employees Are Sabotaging Employers on Their Way Out
By Lynne Curry On Adam’s last day, he recorded a TikTok video walking through his employer’s facility, pointing out every OSHA violation. The video amassed millions of views, prompting an investigation and hefty fines for the company. Maggie managed her company’s social media accounts. After a heated argument with her boss, she changed all the account passwords and … [Read more...] about Revenge Quitting: Why Employees Are Sabotaging Employers on Their Way Out
Creating a neurodiverse-friendly workplace
In today’s diverse and inclusive work environment, it’s imperative for office managers to create an atmosphere where all employees, including neurodivergent individuals, can thrive. Neurodiversity encompasses a range of neurological differences such as autism, ADHD, dyslexia, and more. By adopting strategies to support neurodivergent employees, you’re not only enhancing … [Read more...] about Creating a neurodiverse-friendly workplace
How to Implement a Leave Donation Program to Support Employees Affected by Disaster
As a law office manager, you're responsible for ensuring smooth operations and the well-being of your team. One way to support your employees during difficult times is by creating a catastrophic leave program. This program allows staff members to donate their unused leave time to a colleague who is facing a serious illness or emergency, offering them the chance to maintain … [Read more...] about How to Implement a Leave Donation Program to Support Employees Affected by Disaster
5 things you should never say to your staffers
Without realizing it, a manager can create conflict. It comes from the way staff’s interruptions, questions, and suggestions get handled. Here are five automatic and all too common bad responses. 1 “I don’t have time for that now” A staffer comes in with a question, the manager is in the middle of work, and the response is “not now” or “can’t you take care of that … [Read more...] about 5 things you should never say to your staffers
10 Ways to Build an Environment of Continuous Learning for Your Admin Staff
As a law office manager, you know that an efficient and skilled administrative team is the backbone of your practice. But the legal world doesn’t stand still—laws change, technology evolves, and client expectations grow. To keep your team sharp and your office running smoothly, it’s essential to foster an environment of continuous learning. Here’s how to create a culture where … [Read more...] about 10 Ways to Build an Environment of Continuous Learning for Your Admin Staff
January To-Do List for a Busy Law Office Manager
January marks the start of a new year, bringing opportunities to review, plan, and set your law office up for success. It’s the ideal time to address lingering tasks from the previous year while laying the groundwork for a productive and efficient year ahead. Here’s a detailed to-do list tailored to the needs of a busy law office manager. 1. Year-End Wrap-Up Ensure … [Read more...] about January To-Do List for a Busy Law Office Manager
Manager, Brace Yourself: The January Resignation Rush Is Coming
By Lynne Curry “My job’s been a pressure cooker of rush projects, travel and late-night emails for the last two years. The final straw came on Christmas. My boss decided I’d be the one to cover any calls, as everyone else was married. After that, it wasn’t a difficult decision. I’m trading my corporate paycheck for peace of mind and evenings and weekends off. My new job … [Read more...] about Manager, Brace Yourself: The January Resignation Rush Is Coming