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
Managing staff
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
4 proven ways to increase handwashing
Everyone knows handwashing reduces the transmission of illness. Why then is it so difficult to get staff to comply? Experts recommend four strategies to promote handwashing. 1. Make handwashing part of your practice's culture. 2. Make handwashing part of employee performance evaluation. 3. Make handwashing convenient. 4. Make handwashing pleasant. The importance of … [Read more...] about 4 proven ways to increase handwashing
CHECKLIST: 7 November Tasks for a Smooth Medical Office Finish
As the end of the year looms, November is a perfect month to dive into key tasks that will set your medical office up for a productive finish and an even better start to next year. With the holidays around the corner, it's all about checking off high-impact items before things get even busier. Here are some essential areas to tackle this month. 1. Year-End Financial … [Read more...] about CHECKLIST: 7 November Tasks for a Smooth Medical Office Finish
‘Well that was awkward!’
As an office manager, you’re bound to encounter some awkward situations that require a delicate touch. Navigating these moments effectively can help maintain a positive office atmosphere and demonstrate your leadership skills. Here are some common awkward scenarios and how to handle them with grace: 1. Dealing with Personal Hygiene Issues Addressing an … [Read more...] about ‘Well that was awkward!’
How to improve your office team with cross-training
Cross-training in a medical office is a powerful strategy to boost your team's capabilities, enhance operations, and provide top-notch patient care. By broadening the skill sets of your staff, you create a more versatile workforce capable of handling diverse responsibilities. Advantages of Cross-Training Enhanced Flexibility: Example: A medical receptionist … [Read more...] about How to improve your office team with cross-training