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
Managing staff
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
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
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
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?
Your Role in Preventing Malpractice as a Medical Office Manager
You may not be diagnosing patients or performing procedures, but as a medical office manager, you're on the front lines of malpractice prevention every single day. Your systems, your team, and your oversight all play a critical role in creating an environment where care is safe, efficient, and legally sound. And while the clinical staff handles the medicine, you're the one who … [Read more...] about Your Role in Preventing Malpractice as a Medical Office Manager
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
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