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RISK MANAGEMENT

Workplace political discussions: Strategies for handling what’s coming

May 29, 2023 by

By Lynne Curry Employees care deeply about abortion, gun control, immigration, the uptick in crime, climate change, and other issues that affect their freedom, wallets, and quality of life. As a result, even seemingly innocuous comments concerning news events can escalate into bitter, emotionally charged workplace arguments that alienate coworkers and customers, damage relationships, and negatively impact morale. Here are the facts: More than half (52 percent) of U.S. employees report that sharing their political opinions with coworkers can harm working relationships and negatively affect team productivity, https://www.hibob.com/blog/politics-at-work/. Two out of every five employees (40 percent) report feeling negatively toward their boss or coworkers after discussing political views, https://buddypunch.com/blog/handle-political-discussions-workplace/. One out of every five (20 percent) employees report their coworkers treat them poorly because of their political views, https://www.shrm.org/about-shrm/press-room/press-releases/pages/shrm-study-reveals-20-percent-of-workers-mistreated-due-to-political-views.aspx. Research… . . . read more.

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MANAGING STAFF

How to handle a scamming, scheming employee

May 26, 2023 by

By Lynne Curry Question: I run a small firm. When I advertised for a new hire, I didn’t find anyone who had the right skill set. “Will” applied. Although he lacked the skills I sought, he interviewed well and said he was willing to learn everything necessary to become my No. 1 employee. I took a chance on him and invested months in training him. He shadowed me, developed rapport with my key clients, and learned strategies I’d spent 20 years developing. We had one skirmish. When he found out how much I was paying his predecessor, he lobbied fiercely for a raise. Although his work didn’t justify the salary I was already paying him, he had good natural talent and I didn’t want to start over with a new… . . . read more.

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YOUR CAREER

How to make your best impression at a business lunch

May 26, 2023 by

Business lunches can be an important opportunity to build relationships, discuss business matters, and make a good impression. Good manners can help to create a positive and professional atmosphere, making the lunch more productive and enjoyable for all parties involved. Here are a few tips for good manners during a business lunch: RSVP promptly: If you are invited to a business lunch, be sure to respond as soon as possible to let the host know whether or not you will be able to attend. If you are unable to attend, provide a polite and timely decline. Dress appropriately: Business lunches often have a dress code that is more relaxed than a formal business meeting, but it is still important to dress in a professional and appropriate manner. Avoid clothing that… . . . read more.

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MANAGING STAFF

‘I’m a threat to my boss because I’m smarter’

May 24, 2023 by

By Lynne Curry Over the years of your career, you may have found yourself on both sides of the following situation, first as a bright young staff member and later as a manager dealing with a brash new employee. Question: I am a threat to my supervisor. It’s not my fault, but it may cost me my job. Things were going well between my supervisor and I until last month. In an all-hands meeting, the CEO called on me, saying, “I know who can answer that question. Michael, can you explain it to everyone?” After I finished answering the question, I saw my supervisor’s face, and knew I’d pay a price for being called on. She’s been difficult to deal with ever since. She either ignores or jabs at me… . . . read more.

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YOUR CAREER

The power of emotional intelligence: A guide for medical office managers

May 23, 2023 by

In today’s dynamic healthcare environment, the role of a medical office manager is more challenging than ever. Not only do you need to efficiently manage the administrative tasks, but you also play a crucial role in maintaining a positive work environment and fostering effective communication among your team members. This is where emotional intelligence (EI) comes into play. In this article, we will explore what emotional intelligence is, its significance in management, and provide practical steps to develop and enhance your emotional intelligence skills. Understanding Emotional Intelligence: Emotional intelligence refers to the ability to recognize and manage your own emotions while effectively understanding and responding to the emotions of others. It comprises several key components, including self-awareness, self-regulation, empathy, and social skills. When applied in a managerial role, emotional intelligence… . . . read more.

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EMPLOYMENT LAW UPDATE

Non-compete agreements and deceiving your employer

May 22, 2023 by

By Lynne Curry Question: I was so stoked when the premier firm in my area of professional services hired me that I did something I’ve wanted to do for a long time. I told my former manager what I thought of her. She ordered me to leave her company immediately. No problem, I had a new job to go to. I also had my entire future mapped out. I’d work for my new employer for a year, learn everything I could, and then start my business. I told all my friends my new job was the ideal stepping stone. On my first day when I went through orientation, my new manager handed me an employment agreement that included a noncompete agreement. It was a complete shock. I’d never seen one… . . . read more.

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YOUR CAREER

Navigating career growth: 6 advancement opportunities for medical office managers

May 17, 2023 by

Are you looking to make a move along your career path? Here are six directions a medical office manager can go, often within the same practice or healthcare organization: Practice administrator: A promotion to the role of practice administrator involves overseeing the overall operations and management of a healthcare practice. This position offers a broader scope of responsibilities, including financial management, strategic planning, staff supervision, and maintaining regulatory compliance. It provides an opportunity to take on a leadership role and shape the future of the practice. Regional manager: As a regional manager, you would oversee multiple medical office locations within a specific geographic area. Responsibilities include coordinating the smooth operation of each office, managing budgets, implementing standardized procedures, and fostering collaboration among different teams. This role allows you to gain… . . . read more.

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YOUR CAREER

5 reasons to turn down a promotion … and how to do so tactfully

May 17, 2023 by

Should you take a promotion if it is offered to you? Perhaps, but it might not be your best move. Consider these reasons to turn down a promotion and stay right where you are—successfully managing your medical office. Loss of work-life balance: Consider whether the promotion would significantly impact your work-life balance. Assess if the increased responsibilities would require longer hours, increased stress, or decreased flexibility, which may affect your overall quality of life. Misalignment with career goals: Reflect on whether the promotion aligns with your long-term professional aspirations. Assess if it offers growth opportunities in areas that you are passionate about or if it veers your career path away from your goals. Lack of interest or passion: Evaluate whether the new role aligns with your interests and passions. Consider… . . . read more.

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MANAGING STAFF

Don’t delay if you have to deliver bad news

May 17, 2023 by

By Lynne Curry “It’s not the difficult conversations that bite you the hardest,” I told the manager. “It’s the ones you put off until too late.” I listened to the manager’s reasons and told him, “Here are the risks you take. You dread telling ‘Robert’ what and how he needs to improve because he lashes out at you and remains sullen for days after you’ve counseled him. You finally draft a written reprimand, but before you deliver it, Robert voices a safety concern in front of others. Now your reprimand seems seem retaliatory—and Robert’s an employee who feels justified in reporting his grievance to a regulatory agency.” “You’ve told me ‘Caitlin’ spends more time talking with coworkers than working. She makes lots of errors. You keep hoping she’ll improve, but… . . . read more.

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PRODUCTIVITY

Time blocking strategies for success: A guide for medical office managers

May 16, 2023 by

Introduction: As a medical office manager, your role is crucial in ensuring the smooth operation of the office while managing various projects and tasks. To effectively handle the demands of a medical environment, implementing time blocking techniques can be highly beneficial. By strategically allocating your time, you can optimize productivity, streamline workflows, and successfully manage projects. Let’s explore how time blocking can specifically benefit you as a medical office manager. Prioritize Patient Care Initiatives: In a medical setting, patient care is of paramount importance. Time blocking allows you to prioritize initiatives that directly impact patient well-being. Allocate dedicated blocks to activities such as staff training on patient communication, implementing quality improvement programs, and ensuring compliance with medical regulations. By dedicating specific time slots, you ensure that essential patient care tasks… . . . read more.



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