by Anna Farber Conrad with contributions from Elizabeth A. Weishaupl

As lawyers approach partnership status at a firm, they frequently are given greater levels of responsibility in firm management, including serving as a department or group supervisor. Despite the important role supervisors and managers play in the workings of law firms, firms often fail to train new supervisors or give them guidance regarding management methods or techniques. Management of firm resources, including employees, is vital in controlling the bottom-line costs of any business. Training in this aspect of law firm management is critical in maintaining a business’s solvency.

Developing a few key skills can help the supervising attorney optimize associate productivity, assimilate the new associate quickly into the firm, and create associates who may stay with the firm for many years. This article provides tips and techniques for three essential management skills needed for attorneys who supervise others: (1) giving feedback; (2) coaching; and (3) delegating.
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