Purposeful Meeting Agendas: Before scheduling any meeting, clearly define its purpose and desired outcomes. Craft a detailed agenda and share it with participants in advance. This helps attendees prepare relevant input and ensures that the meeting stays focused on achieving its objectives. Consider Alternatives: Not all communication requires a formal meeting. Explore … [Read more...] about 10 ways to reduce time-wasting meetings
Managing staff
7 ways to deal with gossip and promote a positive work culture
People like to talk about other people, and the lively, sociable staffers in your medical office are no exception. Workplace gossip can be a persistent challenge, capable of undermining team dynamics, eroding trust, and hindering productivity. As the manager of a medical office, it is crucial for you to recognize the detrimental impact gossip can have on your team’s … [Read more...] about 7 ways to deal with gossip and promote a positive work culture
How to support a grieving employee
When an employee is grieving the loss, a good manager can make things a little easier at work. The grieving process is deeply personal and varies from individual to individual, so it's crucial to approach each situation with empathy and flexibility. Here are some ways office management can support a grieving employee: Express condolences: Offer sincere condolences to the … [Read more...] about How to support a grieving employee
Feeling burned out? You and 40% of professionals
Burnout is a problem that just won't go away, new research from global talent solutions and business consulting firm Robert Half shows. In a survey of 1,132 professionals, 36 per cent of respondents reported being more burned out now than a year ago. Workers said the most common factors contributing to burnout today are: Heavy workloads (54 per cent) Lack of communication … [Read more...] about Feeling burned out? You and 40% of professionals
8 ways to become an exceptional career mentor
Guiding and supporting staff in their professional growth can have a powerful impact on both individual careers and the overall success of a medical practice. Taking on the role of a career mentor empowers your team, strengthens the work environment, and builds a culture of development. Cultivate Open Communication: Establishing open lines of communication is fundamental … [Read more...] about 8 ways to become an exceptional career mentor
Creating an inclusive and safe space for the LGBTQ+ community in a medical office
Ensuring that a healthcare facility is welcoming and safe for everyone is essential. Prioritizing inclusivity—especially for members of the LGBTQ+ community, including staff, patients, their families, vendors, and visitors—helps foster trust, comfort, and well-being. By creating a truly safe space, the practice can deliver better care while promoting respect and acceptance … [Read more...] about Creating an inclusive and safe space for the LGBTQ+ community in a medical office
The competent jerk: Managing a top performer who alienates his coworkers
By Lynne Curry Question: My top producer, “Luke,” out-performs any three employees. I love him to death. I wish I had more employees with his energy and drive. I also want to wring his neck. He alienates other employees with his brash “my way is the only way” attitude. When others are speaking in company meetings, he talks over them and cuts them off, using a condescending … [Read more...] about The competent jerk: Managing a top performer who alienates his coworkers
8 NSFW (not safe for work) topics to avoid
When engaging in conversations at work, it's important to maintain a professional and respectful environment. Here are some conversation topics that are generally considered inappropriate at work: Personal or Intimate Relationships: Discussing personal relationships, romantic encounters, or intimate details about one's personal life can create discomfort and be seen as … [Read more...] about 8 NSFW (not safe for work) topics to avoid
What is cultural competency and how do I attain it?
Cultural competency refers to the ability to understand, communicate effectively, and work with individuals from diverse cultural backgrounds. It involves acquiring knowledge about different cultures, recognizing and respecting cultural differences, and adapting one's behavior and practices to be inclusive and sensitive to cultural norms and values. As a manager, developing … [Read more...] about What is cultural competency and how do I attain it?
Howdy and welcome to the team: 8 best onboarding practices
Onboarding a new employee in a medical office is crucial to ensure a smooth transition and set them up for success in their new role. Here are some best practices to consider for an effective onboarding process: Pre-boarding preparation: Start the onboarding process before the employee's first day. Share necessary paperwork, such as contracts, policies, and forms, in advance … [Read more...] about Howdy and welcome to the team: 8 best onboarding practices