Immigration enforcement doesn’t just affect your patients—it can shake your workforce, too. When word spreads of ICE raids in the area, some staffers may stop coming to work out of fear. Others may call out, asking for time to stay with family members, or quietly disengage without ever saying why. This puts you in a difficult spot: You still need to staff the front desk, … [Read more...] about What To Do When Fear of ICE Keeps Staff Away
Managing staff
How to build leadership skills as a new manager
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
Summer Safety Tips for Your Office and Patients
July heat waves can bring more than just sweaty commutes—they can affect your office operations, your staff’s well-being, and even your patients’ health. While the summer months might feel more relaxed, it’s the perfect time to sharpen your focus on safety, both inside the practice and in the information you share with patients. Here’s how to keep things cool, functional, and … [Read more...] about Summer Safety Tips for Your Office and Patients
Becoming Your Office’s Chief Learning Officer (Without the Fancy Title)
In large organizations, a Chief Learning Officer (CLO) is responsible for developing and overseeing learning and development strategies to ensure employees continuously improve their skills. But what if you could bring that same level of professional development to your medical office? As a medical office manager, you are already responsible for efficiency, team development, … [Read more...] about Becoming Your Office’s Chief Learning Officer (Without the Fancy Title)
How to Delegate Without Micromanaging
If you’ve ever handed off a task only to feel your fingers twitching with the urge to take it back, you’re not alone. Delegation can be tricky, especially when you’re used to being in control or when the stakes feel high. But there’s a sweet spot between giving your team freedom and staying in the loop—and that’s where the magic of good supervision … [Read more...] about How to Delegate Without Micromanaging
Why “Thank You” Matters More Than You Think
It’s easy to get swept up in the to-do lists, reports, scheduling, and troubleshooting that fill an office manager’s day. You’re juggling a hundred moving pieces, and just getting through the day without a printer jam or a staff meltdown feels like a win. But amid the whirlwind, there’s one small habit that can make a big difference—for morale, for relationships, and even for … [Read more...] about Why “Thank You” Matters More Than You Think
Employee retention: An important art for every office
By Dr. Steve M. Cohen I write so much about widespread employee issues, lawsuits, and "mess management" that I sometimes sound as if I don't value employees. The reality is that good employees are a treasure. That's often especially true in a medical office. But it's also worth noting that reports by a national management company found that more than 60 percent of … [Read more...] about Employee retention: An important art for every office
Dealing with Mean Girls and Mood Leeches
By Lynne Curry A coaching client collapsed into the chair across from my desk, her face telegraphing defeat. “I barely survived a lunch break with Paula from Payroll." "Lexy, what happened?” I asked. “Paula looked at my quinoa bowl and said, ‘So, you’re dieting—Is it working?’ Then she asked, ‘Are you still doing the dating apps? What’s it been, a year?’” A few … [Read more...] about Dealing with Mean Girls and Mood Leeches
7 ways to communicate power when you write and speak
Effective communication plays a vital role in shaping how team members, patients, and colleagues perceive leadership. Whether crafting an email or addressing a meeting, your choice of words can exude authority and confidence. Here are seven strategies to ensure your writing and speaking convey power. 1. Be Clear and Concise Powerful communication starts with clarity. When you … [Read more...] about 7 ways to communicate power when you write and speak
3 steps to success for a new medical office manager
Dear Medical Office Manager: I've just been promoted to manager of a medical office. What should I do now to ensure success? Congratulations on your promotion! Here are three steps you can take to ensure success in your new role as a medical office manager: Get to know your team: Take the time to meet and build relationships with your staff. This will help you … [Read more...] about 3 steps to success for a new medical office manager