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
Managing staff
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!’
Awkward situations are bound to come up in any office, and handling them with a delicate touch can make all the difference. Navigating these moments effectively helps maintain a positive work environment and showcases strong leadership. Here are some common awkward scenarios—and how to handle them with grace. 1. Dealing with Personal Hygiene … [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
Why your medical practice needs job descriptions
Small businesses, including medical practices, often try to get by without formal job descriptions. The thinking is the manager knows what each position requires, and she or he can share this information with job candidates and new hires. Another argument is that because job tasks tend to change, job descriptions quickly become outdated. Neither of these arguments takes … [Read more...] about Why your medical practice needs job descriptions
HR question: Political gear at work
By Lynne Curry Question: Our problems started in September. Four guys in the warehouse started wearing Camo “Make American Great Again” hats. Two weeks later, they installed in a handmade sign inside the warehouse door that said, “This is Trump Country.” It didn’t bother anyone, or so we thought. But apparently it did. Ten days later, two women in the accounting office … [Read more...] about HR question: Political gear at work
Check this! Your essential staff management checklist
Managing staff effectively is one of the key responsibilities of a medical office manager. Ensuring that your team is organized, well-trained, and supported can significantly improve both patient care and office efficiency. Below is a checklist to help guide you through essential tasks in staff management. Conduct Regular Staff Meetings Schedule consistent meetings … [Read more...] about Check this! Your essential staff management checklist
How to keep things cool as election nears
Navigating political discussions in the workplace can be challenging, especially during contentious times like a U.S. presidential election. As a manager, fostering an environment of respect and civility is essential to maintaining a positive workplace culture. Here are several strategies to help your staffers with differing political positions remain civil to one … [Read more...] about How to keep things cool as election nears
Great ideas to keep your remote staff engaged
Engaging remote staffers can be a challenge, but as a medical office manager, you have the unique opportunity to foster a cohesive and motivated team, even from a distance. Creating a culture of engagement starts with maintaining open and effective communication. Regular check-ins through video calls, phone calls, or messaging platforms can help maintain personal … [Read more...] about Great ideas to keep your remote staff engaged