What do staff think of their manager? All managers have blind spots, or places where, unbeknownst to themselves, their employees view them negatively. For that reason, a staff survey is a good idea. But a manager should survey in person, not on paper. People will say a lot more than they will write. All that's needed are two questions: 1 Tell me something I'm doing well that … [Read more...] about How to find out what your staff really thinks of you
Managing staff
No training budget? No problem!
By Steve M. Cohen bio Whatever happened to the training budgets? Oh, I forgot—it's the economy, stupid! But even in the current climate, don't forget that employees still have the need for training. Training can be related to, and even intertwined with, good morale, professional development, and team building. In fact, team learning is team building. No one disputes … [Read more...] about No training budget? No problem!
Ebola: what medical office managers and staff need to know
As concerns about Ebola dominate the news and social media, and have become a topic of discussion at medical workplaces, it is important to separate fact from speculation. Medical Office Manager shares the following information from the World Health Organization (WHO) to help you and your staff better understand Ebola and its potential impact. Key facts Ebola virus disease … [Read more...] about Ebola: what medical office managers and staff need to know
Model Tool: Ebola: information for healthcare workers
Why you need this handout: As Ebola dominates the news and social media, people—and especially healthcare workers—have become concerned. How this handout helps you: This handout allows you to share information with your staff. How to use this handout: Share this handout with your staff. … [Read more...] about Model Tool: Ebola: information for healthcare workers
Model Tool: Ebola: customizable memo for staff
Why you need this memo: As Ebola dominates the news and social media, people—and especially healthcare workers—have become concerned. How this memo helps you: This memo, together with the Ebola informational handout for staff, allows you to communicate with your staff and address concerns. How to use this memo: Customize this memo as needed and use it with the Ebola … [Read more...] about Model Tool: Ebola: customizable memo for staff
Managers, are you creating a community or an organization?
By Dr. Steve M. Cohen There is a managerial question that is often overlooked: Is your office a community or an organization? A community is, by definition, inclusive. An organization is, by definition, exclusive. Let's use the military as an example of an exclusive organization. When people enlist, there are ranks to climb with each level being more selective and more … [Read more...] about Managers, are you creating a community or an organization?
Consider an employee complaint line
By Dr. Steve M. Cohen A client told me that they eliminated their 800 number complaint line. When I asked why, they said, "All we got were complaints!" I disagreed. Whether they are from employees or customers, complaints are invaluable because the feedback provides an opportunity for examination. I realize the protocol might be slightly different for a medical office, but … [Read more...] about Consider an employee complaint line
Are you violating state “time off” requirements for employees who are parents?
Although back-to-school season rolls around every year, it always seems to bring a level of stress for working parents. And is it any wonder? A new schedule and new commitments require finding ways to meet all the demands of daily life. For households with two working parents, it can be extremely difficult; and for single-parent households, even more so. It's easy for employers … [Read more...] about Are you violating state “time off” requirements for employees who are parents?
Model Tool: Certification table – billing and coding
Why you need this tool: Credentials serve as notification that you have acquired a certain level of knowledge and professional status. As such, they enhance your standing at your current job and your marketability should you seek a new position. How this tool helps you: You may already be eligible, or almost eligible, for billing and coding certifications. How to use this … [Read more...] about Model Tool: Certification table – billing and coding
Discrimination against the obese in the medical workplace
By Steve M. Cohen bio In the news recently was a discussion about a hospital that established a policy that it would not hire anyone who applied for a job whose Body Mass Index was greater than 30. While that sounds simple, it hides a whole range of issues. As most medical professionals know, a BMI score above 30 means you are considered obese. Although I'm all for … [Read more...] about Discrimination against the obese in the medical workplace