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
Managing staff
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
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 improve communication between clinical and admin staff
Strong communication between clinical and administrative staff is essential to keeping a medical office running smoothly and delivering high-quality patient care. When information flows well across roles, it reduces misunderstandings, boosts efficiency, and supports a more collaborative work environment. Here are some practical steps to help improve communication within your … [Read more...] about How to improve communication between clinical and admin staff
Using Performance Improvement Plans (PIPs) Effectively with Staff
One of the toughest parts of your job is addressing underperformance. It’s never fun to have those difficult conversations, but when handled thoughtfully, they can be a real turning point—not just for the employee, but for your whole team. That’s where a Performance Improvement Plan (PIP) comes in. Done right, a PIP isn’t a punishment—it’s a tool for clarity, accountability, … [Read more...] about Using Performance Improvement Plans (PIPs) Effectively with Staff
Stress Awareness Month: A Chance to Foster Openness and Support
April is Stress Awareness Month, an observance that’s been held every year since 1992 and is sponsored by the Stress Management Society. As an office manager, this is a valuable opportunity to shine a light on a topic that affects everyone—especially in fast-paced, high-pressure workplaces. By using this month to acknowledge stress and talk openly about it, you can take … [Read more...] about Stress Awareness Month: A Chance to Foster Openness and Support