Hire a receptionist and hire the manager of first and lasting impressions. The receptionist position is a marketing position. Before callers ever talk to an attorney, they form an opinion of the firm through their contact with the front desk. Yet most firms view the position as one that doesn't need a lot of intellectual skills and hire a receptionist without looking for the … [Read more...] about How to hire a great receptionist
Managing the office
How to negotiate with employment agencies
As a law office administrator, you may frequently need to engage with employment agencies to find the right talent for your firm. Whether you're hiring temporary staff or looking for permanent employees, negotiating effectively with these agencies is crucial to securing the best candidates at competitive rates. Here’s a guide to help you navigate these negotiations with … [Read more...] about How to negotiate with employment agencies
7 projects to tackle in September
As the summer winds down and the pace picks up, September is the perfect time to dive into projects that will set your law office up for success in the months ahead. Here are seven key projects to focus on that will help you streamline operations, boost efficiency, and ensure that your team is prepared for the busy fall season. 1. Review and Update Case Management … [Read more...] about 7 projects to tackle in September
HR scenario: How do I handle ‘quiet vacationing’?
By Lynne Curry Question: I’m a small business owner and trust my employees. The majority are great. In the past two years, I’ve actively sought ways to reward them for hard work and keep them motivated. When our amazing summer began in May, I shortened our work week to four days for as long as summer lasted, giving every employee a guilt-free Friday off. I manage … [Read more...] about HR scenario: How do I handle ‘quiet vacationing’?
How you can support associates’ professional development
As a law office manager, you have a significant impact on the professional development of your associates. By fostering a culture that encourages continuous learning, providing mentorship opportunities, and promoting growth, you can help build a stronger, more capable team. Here’s how you can play a pivotal role in supporting your associates’ professional development. 1. … [Read more...] about How you can support associates’ professional development
Get a move on: Tips for relocating your office
Moving a law office can feel like an overwhelming task, but with the right planning, it doesn't have to be. Whether you're expanding to a bigger space or relocating for a fresh start, a smooth transition is all about the details. Here’s a guide to help you plan your move efficiently and keep your practice running seamlessly. Start Early The key to a successful move is … [Read more...] about Get a move on: Tips for relocating your office
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
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
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
How to prioritize law firm management tasks
By Elizabeth M. Miller bio What's the most important task you have to tackle today? Do you have so many you can't decide which to address first? In law firms, priorities change from day to day and even moment to moment. The truth of the matter is that there are often competing priorities. And unless there is an obvious crisis, it's sometimes not that easy to decide which … [Read more...] about How to prioritize law firm management tasks