By Lynne Curry If you love working from home, and dread returning to the office, here’s the stark question you may face this year—are you willing to lose your job? This crossroads looms large for millions of workers. After tasting the benefits of remote work—zero commutes and better work-life balance—many employees feel reluctant to trade that freedom for fluorescent … [Read more...] about HR UPDATE: Who will win the return to office fight?
Managing staff
“Why are you leaving us?” 5 key questions to ask staffers who resign
There's good information to be had from a staffer who's leaving. Here are a few rules to follow and a few questions to ask. Two minutes before the exit Do the interviewing just as the staffer is ready to walk out the door. That means late afternoon of the last day. The 11th-hour timing ensures that whatever negative remarks the staffer makes won't carry repercussion. … [Read more...] about “Why are you leaving us?” 5 key questions to ask staffers who resign
9 Ways to Build an Environment of Continuous Learning for Your Staff
As a medical office manager, you know the value of having a well-trained, motivated administrative team. But keeping your staff sharp and engaged requires more than just a good onboarding program. It’s about creating an environment of continuous learning—one where your team feels empowered to grow their skills and stay ahead of industry trends. Here’s how you can foster that … [Read more...] about 9 Ways to Build an Environment of Continuous Learning for Your Staff
January To-Do List for a Busy Medical Office Manager
The start of a new year is the perfect time to set the tone for success in your medical practice. January often brings a mix of wrapping up the previous year’s tasks, setting goals, and preparing for the months ahead. To help you stay organized, here’s a comprehensive to-do list to keep your office running smoothly and efficiently as you head into the new year. 1. … [Read more...] about January To-Do List for a Busy Medical Office Manager
Manager, Brace Yourself: The January Resignation Rush Is Coming
By Lynne Curry “My job’s been a pressure cooker of rush projects, travel and late-night emails for the last two years. The final straw came on Christmas. My boss decided I’d be the one to cover any calls, as everyone else was married. After that, it wasn’t a difficult decision. I’m trading my corporate paycheck for peace of mind and evenings and weekends off. My new job has … [Read more...] about Manager, Brace Yourself: The January Resignation Rush Is Coming
Exploring the Four-Day Workweek: A Map for Medical Office Managers
As discussions around workplace flexibility continue to grow, the idea of a four-day workweek has gained significant attention in the United States. From pilot programs in the private sector to proposed legislation, such as the Thirty-Two Hour Workweek Act introduced in 2024, the potential shift to a shorter workweek is becoming more than just a trending topic. For medical … [Read more...] about Exploring the Four-Day Workweek: A Map for Medical Office Managers
Payroll Part 2: How to Hire a Payroll Specialist for Your Medical Office
Hiring a payroll specialist for your medical office is a big decision. Payroll isn’t just about cutting checks—it’s about ensuring compliance with labor laws, maintaining employee satisfaction, and keeping the financial operations of your practice running smoothly. Here’s how you can find the right person for the job. Define the Role Clearly Before you … [Read more...] about Payroll Part 2: How to Hire a Payroll Specialist for Your Medical Office
A Tool You Can Use: Staff Meeting Agenda and Minutes Template
Here's a Staff Meeting Agenda and Minutes Template specifically designed for a medical office manager. This template will help ensure each meeting is structured, purposeful, and documented for easy follow-up. Staff Meeting Agenda and Minutes Template Meeting Details Date: ___________________________ Time: ___________________________ Location: … [Read more...] about A Tool You Can Use: Staff Meeting Agenda and Minutes Template
HR Update: Employers Deploy the Perk Police
By Lynne Curry Question: My employer fired me this morning for an “offense” so minor it’s laughable—especially since dozens of other employees do the same thing. Here’s what happened. My employer issues meal vouchers employees can use if they have pizza or sandwiches delivered to them at their desks when they’re working through lunch or into the evening. Since I didn’t … [Read more...] about HR Update: Employers Deploy the Perk Police
How to stay afloat when the office pessimist tries to drag you under
By Lynne Curry Pessimists come at you with negative words such as “you’re wasting your time” or “that will never work.” If you’re not careful, this onslaught can snuff out your enthusiasm, leading you to give up on ideas, adventures or opportunities that might power your career or work life forward. Here’s how to avoid letting a pessimist’s negativity drain your … [Read more...] about How to stay afloat when the office pessimist tries to drag you under