First we have coffee.

For many of us, January has taken an eternity to end. I know for one, I absolutely cannot start my day without a strong coffee. I am of the belief, that coffee would be found coursing through my body, and not blood. I am sure a few of you may feel the same at this time, or for those that are tea drinkers, a very similar story.

I am like the guy is this week’s image. First coffee and then the ideas beam out of my head and I am on a roll. Bright, energetic colours and if you get the right music playlist on in the background – woah! That cuppa is powerful stuff!

The LPM Shake’n’Fix brings those who work in, and with, the legal profession, a down-to-earth round-up of updates, and weekly recommendations and tips! Shaken, not stirred.

Welcome back!

Article Round-Up

Throughout the week, I come across 10s, sometimes 100s of articles, posts and blogs, with many containing really useful information for the legal profession. This week, I came across a bit of a mix that really stood out to share with you all:

Top Tip

This week’s top tip comes direct from Peter Mills, Fractionary – Independent Operations & IT Leadership:

“In the competitive legal sector, law firms face the unique challenge of balancing cost with the delivery of top-notch services. While advancing IT and technological systems is a priority, with considerable investments being funnelled into enhancing business efficiency, it’s crucial not to overlook the engines of these innovations: the computers themselves.

All too often I see cost-saving measures lead to the selection of lower-cost, less capable PCs and laptops. While this might seem budget-friendly in the short term, it can lead to greater expenses down the line through lost productivity, delayed case processing, slower response times to client needs and very frustrated staff.

For small and medium-sized law firms, the key isn’t just in replacing aging machines but in making strategic initial investments in purchasing quality hardware. By choosing robust IT equipment from the start, firms can avoid the pitfalls of false economy, maintain a smooth and efficient workflow, and secure a competitive advantage that is vital in today’s demanding legal marketplace. Investing wisely in technology is not an expenditure but a fundamental building block for a firm’s ongoing success and client satisfaction.

Rest assured that every time I’ve seen a law firm that has underinvested in hardware, I’ve demonstrated the difference with high performing PCs and laptops and their current equipment, when you factor in the highest cost any firm has, your people, the Return on Investment writes itself…”

IMPORTANT Compliance Update (AGAIN)

The Legal Ombudsman (LeO) is changed its postal address on Monday 22 January 2024.

This date has passed, so if your firm has not done this yet – get to it! We are on week three of this reminder, and there are still loads of law firm websites this week that still have the old LeO address on the complaints page.

The Legal Ombudsman’s new postal address: Legal Ombudsman, PO Box 6167, Slough SL1 0EH

Further details can be found under: The Legal Ombudsman (LeO) has change of postal address that requires law firms to change their information 2024. (ilfm.org.uk)

Book of the Week

I came across this book a few months back, and thought it would be a great read to understand the role of the ever-changing assistant in a law firm, be it PA, EA, legal secretary, administrative assistant and so on. This book really did that, and is empowering read for anyone in these roles. It is also a great read for partners, directors and managers, who want to better understand the assistant role.

The book is ‘The Modern-Day Assistant’, written by one of the world’s leading authorities on administrative and assistant skills, Lucy Brazier OBE.

You can purchase this book here:

The Modern-Day Assistant: Build Your Influence and Boost Your Potential: Amazon.co.uk: Brazier, Lucy: 9781398612204: Books

N.B. If your assistant offers to grab you a coffee, don’t take it for granted, always say thank you and return the favour.

Recommended LinkedIn Follow of the Week*

This lady really needs no introduction. She is one of the most energetic people I have ever met, and gives me a run on fire and passion with projects, work and well, life.

Of course, it is the fabulous Elaine Pasini MCIM ☕️, from the ILFM (The Institute of Legal Finance & Management). Elaine is the Head of Communications at the ILFM, and is all about developing relationships, writing engaging content and growing any business.

(Look, another coffee in Elaine’s LI name – it is definitely all about the coffee this week).

If you are not already following Elaine, do so immediately. Elaine writes and posts much surrounding the evolving legal landscape, and keeps those reminders coming to us all.

Upcoming Events 2024

Key events that I recommend attending for the year ahead (updated weekly):

N.B. More will be added as the weeks continue and conference season gets closer!

Oh, Mastering Legal Practice Management: Essentials for Law Firm Success ⚖️📈 | LinkedIn was a LinkedIn Live and the recorded video is available to watch at your leisure.

You made it this far…

Thanks so much for taking the time to read this week’s edition. I hope you found it useful, and if not subscribed, go click that subscribe link to be notified when the next edition is released. It is only going to get better!

If you would like to be part of ‘The LPM Shake’n’Fix’ journey, maybe provide a ‘Top Tip’, please email enquiries@arieslpm.com.

Have a great weekend!

From, The Lady in the Blue Trousers™️👖

(aka Kirsty Pappin | LinkedIn )

* These are personal recommendations and are not included on request.

 

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