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
Managing staff
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
Be smart about scheduling to retain hourly employees
Staff scheduling can significantly impact the success of your practice. While scheduling may seem like a routine administrative task, its importance in retaining your valuable hourly employees cannot be overstated. A well-designed and thoughtful scheduling system can lead to increased job satisfaction, higher productivity, and improved staff retention rates. . Depending on the … [Read more...] about Be smart about scheduling to retain hourly employees
Workplace political discussions: Strategies for handling what’s coming
By Lynne Curry Employees care deeply about abortion, gun control, immigration, the uptick in crime, climate change, and other issues that affect their freedom, wallets, and quality of life. As a result, even seemingly innocuous comments concerning news events can escalate into bitter, emotionally charged workplace arguments that alienate coworkers and customers, damage … [Read more...] about Workplace political discussions: Strategies for handling what’s coming
How to handle a scamming, scheming staffer
By Lynne Curry Question: I run a small firm. When I advertised for a new hire, I didn’t find anyone who had the right skill set. “Will” applied. Although he lacked the skills I sought, he interviewed well and said he was willing to learn everything necessary to become my No. 1 employee. I took a chance on him and invested months in training him. He shadowed me, developed … [Read more...] about How to handle a scamming, scheming staffer
‘I’m a threat to my boss because I’m smarter’
By Lynne Curry Over the years of your career, you may have found yourself on both sides of the following situation, first as a bright young staff member and later as a manager dealing with a brash new employee. Question: I am a threat to my supervisor. It’s not my fault, but it may cost me my job. Things were going well between my supervisor and I until last month. In an … [Read more...] about ‘I’m a threat to my boss because I’m smarter’
The power of emotional intelligence: A guide for medical office managers
In today's dynamic healthcare environment, the role of a medical office manager is more challenging than ever. Not only do you need to efficiently manage the administrative tasks, but you also play a crucial role in maintaining a positive work environment and fostering effective communication among your team members. This is where emotional intelligence (EI) comes into play. In … [Read more...] about The power of emotional intelligence: A guide for medical office managers
Don’t delay if you have to deliver bad news
By Lynne Curry “It’s not the difficult conversations that bite you the hardest,” I told the manager. “It’s the ones you put off until too late.” I listened to the manager’s reasons and told him, “Here are the risks you take. You dread telling ‘Robert’ what and how he needs to improve because he lashes out at you and remains sullen for days after you’ve counseled him. You … [Read more...] about Don’t delay if you have to deliver bad news
7 ways to support mental health in your office
May is Mental Health Awareness Month, a good time to devote some thought to how you can support mental health in your office. Here are some ideas for advancing mental health in the workplace: Encourage open communication: Encourage your employees to speak openly about their mental health and provide a safe space for them to do so. Encourage managers to be approachable and … [Read more...] about 7 ways to support mental health in your office