Stepping into the role of a medical office manager is exciting, but it also comes with a new set of challenges. One of the most important aspects of your job is leading your team effectively. As the person responsible for the smooth day-to-day operations of the office, developing strong leadership skills is essential for your success and the success of your team. While … [Read more...] about How to build leadership skills as a new manager
Managing staff
The breakroom saga: a true story with a surprise ending
By Lynne Curry Stay tuned for this week’s exciting episode of The Breakroom Saga. If your office’s breakroom is a hotbed of unresolved conflict, you’ll recognize these characters and their dramas. . At 3 p.m., “Harry” exploded into the manager’s office because someone swiped his turkey and cheese sandwich. According to Harry, one bite would have convinced anyone … [Read more...] about The breakroom saga: a true story with a surprise ending
Flex-retirement: A win-win strategy for staff retention
Staff retention is not only a cost-effective strategy, but it also helps maintain institutional knowledge and ensures a smoother transition when team members retire. One innovative approach that can facilitate this transition and keep experienced staff on board is “flex-retirement.” What Is Flex-Retirement? Flex-retirement, also known as flexible retirement, is a workplace … [Read more...] about Flex-retirement: A win-win strategy for staff retention
Empathy an important workplace leadership quality
Empathy is the ability to understand and share the feelings, thoughts, and perspectives of others. It involves not only recognizing and acknowledging the emotions of others but also demonstrating care and concern for their well-being. In the context of a workplace leader, empathy is essential for several reasons: Building Trust: Empathetic leaders are more likely to earn … [Read more...] about Empathy an important workplace leadership quality
7 ways to communicate power when you write and speak
As a medical office manager, the way you communicate can significantly impact how your team, patients, and colleagues perceive your leadership. Whether you're writing an email or speaking in a meeting, your words can convey authority and confidence. Here are seven ways to communicate power when you write and speak. 1. Be Clear and Concise Powerful communication starts with … [Read more...] about 7 ways to communicate power when you write and speak
When staffers bully their supervisor
By Lynne Curry She came to work early, rarely took a full lunch break, and almost always worked past five p.m. Six of her nine staffers considered her an effective leader. She ran a successful department until her other three direct reports drove her out. Empowered by their victory, this “gang of three” ran off two successive managers before the company’s senior … [Read more...] about When staffers bully their supervisor
Surviving the bully boss when you’re a nice person
By Lynne Curry Question: I work for a supervisor who loves to take me apart. Last week, she invited me into her office and spent 30 minutes telling me everything I did wrong. When she finally wound down, I felt shattered and said, “Thanks, I need to get back to work.” Once at my desk, I discovered I couldn’t focus. The emails in my inbox seemed to swim, and I realized … [Read more...] about Surviving the bully boss when you’re a nice person
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 based … [Read more...] about HR scenario: How do I handle ‘quiet vacationing’?
How to outsmart manipulators in the workplace
By Lynne Curry If you’re locked in a work relationship with a manipulative boss or coworkers who learn you’re an easy mark, they’ll manipulate you until you recognize their games and find ways to outsmart them. Here’s what you need to understand and do to stop manipulators in their tracks. Start by understanding who and what manipulators are. Next, realize how you’re … [Read more...] about How to outsmart manipulators in the workplace
How to handle the departure of summer temps
As summer comes to an end, so does the tenure of many summer temps who have been assisting in your medical office. While their contributions may have been temporary, ensuring a smooth transition as they depart is essential for maintaining the efficiency and continuity of your practice. Here’s how you can effectively handle the departure of summer temps. 1. Conduct an Exit … [Read more...] about How to handle the departure of summer temps