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Labour & Employment Law Blog

Trends in North American Labour Markets

Zeilikman Law

Zeilikman Law

The past two years have caused major shifts in all aspects of life in North America. As industries in Canada and the U.S. have experienced shutdowns and various employment trends, it is important to recognize where these transitions will leave working individuals, and how employers can adapt.

The pandemic effect

In both countries, studies have found that work-related burnout has been on the rise. Life in the pandemic has caused extra stress in the lives of everyone and experts have found that many cases of burnout come from factors such as this that are outside of the workplace. Nevertheless, these issues are real and are changing the dynamic of many workspaces.

For instance, in the U.S. and Canada, across industries and job roles, employees are looking for more from their workplace and their employers. More than wages, promotions or perks, employees are putting an emphasis on situations that increase their sense of self-worth and quality of life. A workplace that makes an individual feel like they are accomplishing something important with supportive people around them are in higher demand than they have ever been before.

This is quite an interesting finding based on research conducted by Indeed. It is a reflection of the inward thinking that the shutdown has inspired.

What does this mean for employers?

Knowing that self-worth is a topic on the mind of many workers, employers have an opportunity to connect and inspire their teams. There are many strategies that can be implemented in order to boost the self-worth of employees.

Studies have shown that the simple step of acknowledging hard work is an easy and effective step for a leader to take. Sometimes it can be very reassuring for an individual to hear that they are valued by their employer. Even through a minor success.

Investing in your own team is another way to show them that they are supported. This includes making time for them to learn and grow on their own. Sending interesting articles, having one on one conversations and learning more about each individual’s likes and dislikes will allow an employer and employee to grow together.

Most importantly, employers must address any issues coming from an employee with an open mind. This has been a tough couple of years for everybody. As long as employers maintain an understanding and open mindset in any scenario involving employees, it will surely boost their confidence and willingness to excel in their position.

The above article is for general information purposes only, does not constitute legal advice or create a solicitor-client relationship. Because each case is unique and factually driven, if you have concerns with regard to the foregoing issues, please make an appointment with one of our lawyers or a qualified legal practitioner elsewhere. We represent clients in the Greater Toronto Area including Toronto, North York, Markham, Vaughan, Thornhill, Newmarket, Aurora, Brampton, Mississauga, Barrie, Ajax, Whitby, Pickering and Oshawa.

Legal Receptionist

Zeilikman Law is an employment law firm located in Vaughan, Ontario. We are looking to hire a legal receptionist to join our firm. Preference will be given to candidates who have experience working as a receptionist at another law firm.

Location: Vaughan, Ontario.

Start Date: Immediately.

Hours: Monday to Friday, 9 am to 5 pm. Full time. In-person only. This is not a remote work position.

Wages: 35,000 to 40,000 per year.

Duties and Responsibilities:

  • Manage our firm’s multi-line telephone system to receive incoming calls.  Screen incoming telephone call inquiries to determine the nature of the telephone call and provide standard information related to our legal services.  Take and deliver messages and route incoming telephone calls to the appropriate staff person.
  • Answer general inquiries coming from the firm’s social media and website email.
  • Welcome in-person visitors upon arrival.  Direct visitors to the appropriate staff person and / or office or boardroom.
  • Organize in-person visitor schedule to prevent overlap and multiple bookings.
  • Receive, sort, and distribute daily mail and deliveries.
  • Arrange for couriers.
  • Keep front reception, kitchenette area and boardroom tidy.
  • Perform various clerical duties such as filing, photocopying, and faxing on an as-needed basis.
  • Process client or other payments.
  • May be asked to run minor errands outside of office such as attending post office to arrange a courier or pick up mail.
  • May be asked to assist other law clerks or lawyers of the firm as required and as appropriate.
  • Any other basic administrative duties or tasks as deemed appropriate.

Required Skills:

  • Basic knowledge of general office procedures including filing, faxing, and printing and copying.
  • Basic word processing computer skills.
  • Proficient in receptionist and telephone practices, etiquette, and decorum.
  • Professional attitude and appearance.
  • Excellent organizational skills.
  • Positive customer service attitude is a must.
  • Must be able to maintain confidential and sensitive information.

Education and Experience:

  • Highschool diploma or equivalent.
  • 1 – 2 years’ experience in an office setting with an emphasis in accounting, reception or clerical work is required.   We would prefer experience in a law firm environment.

Applications for this position should be sent via email to jennifer@zeilikmanlaw.com. All applications should include a cover letter, resume and at least two references. Only successful candidates will be contacted.