By Lynne Curry Question: I’m a small business owner and trust my employees. The majority are great. In the past two years, I’ve actively sought ways to reward them for hard work and keep them motivated. When our amazing summer began in May, I shortened our work week to four days for as long as summer lasted, giving every employee a guilt-free Friday off. I manage based … [Read more...] about HR scenario: How do I handle ‘quiet vacationing’?
Managing staff
How to outsmart manipulators in the workplace
By Lynne Curry If you’re locked in a work relationship with a manipulative boss or coworkers who learn you’re an easy mark, they’ll manipulate you until you recognize their games and find ways to outsmart them. Here’s what you need to understand and do to stop manipulators in their tracks. Start by understanding who and what manipulators are. Next, realize how you’re … [Read more...] about How to outsmart manipulators in the workplace
How to handle the departure of summer temps
As summer comes to an end, so does the tenure of many summer temps who have been assisting in your medical office. While their contributions may have been temporary, ensuring a smooth transition as they depart is essential for maintaining the efficiency and continuity of your practice. Here’s how you can effectively handle the departure of summer temps. 1. Conduct an Exit … [Read more...] about How to handle the departure of summer temps
Employee morale and your practice’s productivity: 5 easy ways to boost both
By Elizabeth M. Miller bio Employees' attitudes have changed over the years. Good, loyal employees want more than a paycheck and health benefits. Studies have shown that compensation does not even rate in the top 5 of what makes an employee happy with their job. I believe happy employees are productive employees and anyone who believes otherwise is overlooking the … [Read more...] about Employee morale and your practice’s productivity: 5 easy ways to boost both
The temp is gunning for my job
By Lynne Curry Question: I love my job as a midsize medical clinic’s administrative manager. That’s why my husband and I agreed I’d take only a short six-week maternity leave, and he’d take the full two months his employer offered. When I told the managing physician, he thanked me profusely for my commitment. I diligently searched for the best temporary replacement, … [Read more...] about The temp is gunning for my job
Getting your head back in the game after summer vacation
It can be hard to come back to the office after the fun and relaxation of summer vacation. Consider these tips for a smooth transition and an efficient workflow. Reconnect with the Healthcare Team: Upon your return, schedule meetings with key healthcare professionals and staff members. Discuss any recent changes, updates, or challenges that occurred during your absence. … [Read more...] about Getting your head back in the game after summer vacation
What it takes for a good manager to be a good leader
A good manager is often synonymous with being a good leader, but it's important to recognize that while there is overlap between the two roles, they are not identical. A manager typically has responsibilities related to organizing, planning, and controlling processes and resources to achieve specific goals. On the other hand, a leader focuses on inspiring, motivating, and … [Read more...] about What it takes for a good manager to be a good leader
How to save yourself and your career from gaslighting
By Lynne Curry When you discover your colleague led a pivotal meeting you didn’t attend—one to which he invited several key managers but not you—you confront him. He looks affronted, and says, “But didn’t you get the invitation? I sent it to you a week ago. Maybe you deleted it by accident?” His certainty shakes you, and you search your inbox, your deleted files, and your … [Read more...] about How to save yourself and your career from gaslighting
Model Tool: Employee referral form
Why you need this form: Employee referral continues to be the No. 1 source of external hires. Good employees know other good employees, so why not tap this valuable pipeline of potential job candidates? How this form helps you: This customizable, sample form provides a mechanism for tracking employee referrals. How to use this form: This Model Form serves as a template. … [Read more...] about Model Tool: Employee referral form
You should learn your way around office politics
By Lynne Curry Question: I like my new job, my supervisor, and my coworkers, except for a woman I’ve nicknamed “the queen.” The problem began as soon as my first all-hands meeting ended. Several of my coworkers invited me to have drinks with them after work. The queen overhead because she and I were heading into a pre-planned meeting that lasted until the end of the … [Read more...] about You should learn your way around office politics