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
Managing staff
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
Employers need to come to grips with employees’ mental health struggles
By Lynne Curry “I’m not my employees’ babysitter, their mommy, or their therapist,” the CEO insisted. The problem that led to his call—his company’s 2024 employee survey revealed large numbers of his company’s employees expected mental health benefits. “What are these employees thinking?” he asked. “We offer a generous sick leave allowance and they’re asking for paid … [Read more...] about Employers need to come to grips with employees’ mental health struggles
8 proven ways to totally destroy your credibility as a manager
A manager can have great knowledge and great skills, but without credibility with both doctors and staff, don't expect success. What is credibility? It can be defined as "what we do and how we do it that causes others to respect and believe us." The "what-we-do" is the tangible things – the work and its results. The "how-we-do-it" is the behavior that demonstrates a person's … [Read more...] about 8 proven ways to totally destroy your credibility as a manager
The breakroom saga: a true story with a surprise ending
By Lynne Curry Stay tuned for this week’s exciting episode of The Breakroom Saga. If your office’s breakroom is a hotbed of unresolved conflict, you’ll recognize these characters and their dramas. . At 3 p.m., “Harry” exploded into the manager’s office because someone swiped his turkey and cheese sandwich. According to Harry, one bite would have convinced anyone … [Read more...] about The breakroom saga: a true story with a surprise ending
9 tips for virtual onboarding of new remote employees
When onboarding virtual and remote employees for your medical office, setting the stage for success starts with thoughtful planning and clear communication. Bringing someone new into a remote environment requires a different approach, but with the right strategies, you can ensure your new team members feel welcomed, supported, and prepared. First, designate someone to guide … [Read more...] about 9 tips for virtual onboarding of new remote employees
Do you make your employees want to stay?
By Lynne Curry Your employees are leaving, because they want better opportunities. What are you giving them? If it’s not better opportunities, you’ll lose them. Here’s what you need to consider: Do you pay your employees what they’re worth? If you can’t afford competitive compensation, do you compensate by giving employees flexibility and autonomy, allowing … [Read more...] about Do you make your employees want to stay?
Flex-retirement: A win-win strategy for staff retention
Staff retention is not only a cost-effective strategy, but it also helps maintain institutional knowledge and ensures a smoother transition when team members retire. One innovative approach that can facilitate this transition and keep experienced staff on board is “flex-retirement.” What Is Flex-Retirement? Flex-retirement, also known as flexible retirement, is a workplace … [Read more...] about Flex-retirement: A win-win strategy for staff retention