By Lynne Curry Question: I love my job as a midsize medical clinic’s administrative manager. That’s why my husband and I agreed I’d take only a short six-week maternity leave, and he’d take the full two months his employer offered. When I told the managing physician, he thanked me profusely for my commitment. I diligently searched for the best temporary replacement, … [Read more...] about The temp is gunning for my job
Your career
Four fixes for job burnout
By Lynne Curry Are you burned out and not sure how to fix it? In 2024, emails from burned-out managers and employees have flooded my workplace coach inbox. Here’s what some have said: “I’m running on empty;” “mentally exhausted and emotionally drained;” “constantly on edge and irritable;” “on autopilot, just going through the motions, and don’t see any way out.” If you … [Read more...] about Four fixes for job burnout
Getting your head back in the game after summer vacation
It can be hard to come back to the office after the fun and relaxation of summer vacation. Consider these tips for a smooth transition and an efficient workflow. Reconnect with the Healthcare Team: Upon your return, schedule meetings with key healthcare professionals and staff members. Discuss any recent changes, updates, or challenges that occurred during your absence. … [Read more...] about Getting your head back in the game after summer vacation
How to turn setbacks into comebacks
In the fast-paced world of medical office management, setbacks are inevitable. Whether it's a sudden staff shortage, an unexpected change in regulations, or a dip in patient satisfaction, these challenges can feel overwhelming. However, with the right mindset and strategies, you can transform these setbacks into powerful comebacks. Here's how: Embrace the Setback First things … [Read more...] about How to turn setbacks into comebacks
10 steps to build your confidence as a new office manager
Starting a new role as an office manager can be an exciting yet challenging experience. It's not uncommon to feel a bit overwhelmed in the beginning, but by taking proactive steps, you can build your confidence and excel in your new position. Here are some valuable tips to help you grow in your role as an office manager: 1. Understand Your Role: Begin by thoroughly … [Read more...] about 10 steps to build your confidence as a new office manager
How to revive workplace friendships
By Lynne Curry Those casual everyday conversations we once enjoyed as we started our workday or ran into each other in the breakroom largely ended during the pandemic. For some, particularly those who work remotely or on a hybrid schedule, these conversations and workplace friendships never resumed. A recent survey of 3,000 U.S. employees revealed 69 percent felt unsatisfied … [Read more...] about How to revive workplace friendships
Try reverse questions as a self-motivation tool
Traditional motivation strategies often emphasize goal setting and visualizing success. However, an unconventional yet powerful technique can enhance your effectiveness: the use of reverse questions. By flipping the typical narrative, reverse questions challenge you to confront fears and uncertainties, fostering a deeper sense of motivation and resilience. The Concept of … [Read more...] about Try reverse questions as a self-motivation tool
7 tips for leading a video meeting
We’ve become accustomed to attending work meetings on Zoom and other video conferencing platforms in the last few years. But you might not be at ease as the leader of a Zoom meeting for your medical office team. Here are some tips for conducting a successful video work meeting: Set a clear agenda: Before the meeting, create an agenda that outlines the topics to be … [Read more...] about 7 tips for leading a video meeting
How to save yourself and your career from gaslighting
By Lynne Curry When you discover your colleague led a pivotal meeting you didn’t attend—one to which he invited several key managers but not you—you confront him. He looks affronted, and says, “But didn’t you get the invitation? I sent it to you a week ago. Maybe you deleted it by accident?” His certainty shakes you, and you search your inbox, your deleted files, and your … [Read more...] about How to save yourself and your career from gaslighting
You should learn your way around office politics
By Lynne Curry Question: I like my new job, my supervisor, and my coworkers, except for a woman I’ve nicknamed “the queen.” The problem began as soon as my first all-hands meeting ended. Several of my coworkers invited me to have drinks with them after work. The queen overhead because she and I were heading into a pre-planned meeting that lasted until the end of the … [Read more...] about You should learn your way around office politics