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
Your career
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
National Memo Day: A Reminder to Master the Art of the Office Memo
National Memo Day, celebrated each year on May 21, might not be the most famous observance on your calendar—but as an office manager, it’s a great opportunity to take a fresh look at how you communicate through memos. Whether you’re a frequent memo-sender or haven’t written one in years, this day is a nudge to reflect, refine, and maybe even reboot your approach. If your inbox … [Read more...] about National Memo Day: A Reminder to Master the Art of the Office Memo
How to focus on the important stuff
As a busy medical office manager, it's crucial to stay organized and focused on your important projects. Here are some specific tips to help you maintain focus in at the office: Prioritize Your Tasks: Identify your most critical tasks and prioritize them based on urgency and importance. This might include patient scheduling, billing, compliance, and staff management. … [Read more...] about How to focus on the important stuff
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
10 questions to ask the retiring medical office manager
Taking over the role of medical office manager can feel like stepping into big shoes. The retiring office manager has accumulated years of knowledge and insights that you won’t find in a manual or job description. Before they leave, it’s essential to ask the right questions to ensure a smooth transition and set yourself up for success. Here are some key areas to focus on when … [Read more...] about 10 questions to ask the retiring medical office manager
Do I Fire A Staffer Who Doesn’t Deserve It?
By Lynne Curry Question: When our newly hired general manager pulled me into his office this morning, he asked me to fire a staff member, an individual I know well and who’s always impressed me as a hard worker. I run our company’s HR department. I asked, “Could you give me the details, so I can create a solid case for our file?” The GM, a fifty-something white man … [Read more...] about Do I Fire A Staffer Who Doesn’t Deserve It?
Elevating Your Practice: The Power of Continuing Education for Medical Office Managers
The healthcare field is constantly evolving. New technologies, changing regulations, and shifting patient needs are just a few of the factors that require your office to stay adaptable and up-to-date. One of the most effective ways to ensure your skills and the skills of your team remain sharp and relevant is through continuing education. Continuing education is not just about … [Read more...] about Elevating Your Practice: The Power of Continuing Education for Medical Office Managers