Creative Office Manager

Managing Up

Handling Conflict with Confidence: Strategies for a Harmonious Office

Conflict is inevitable in any workplace, and as an office manager, it’s your responsibility to handle disputes effectively to maintain a harmonious and productive environment. Successful conflict resolution requires understanding, patience, and the right strategies. Here’s how you can manage and resolve conflicts among your staff. Understand the Root Causes Before you can … [Read more...] about Handling Conflict with Confidence: Strategies for a Harmonious Office

How to Drive Change Without Ruffling Feathers

Change can be exciting, but it can also be met with resistance, especially in an office environment where people are comfortable with the status quo. As an office manager, you may be tasked with implementing new processes, technologies, or policies, but the challenge lies in doing so without disrupting the flow or causing unnecessary stress among your team. Here’s how to drive … [Read more...] about How to Drive Change Without Ruffling Feathers

Insecure Boss Treats Me Like a Threat

By Lynne Curry  Question: I work for a general manager who’s brilliant with code and clueless about people. He bristles at feedback, shuts down suggestions, and appears threatened by the fact that I managed a team with my prior employer. He ices me out in meetings and sidelines me every chance he gets. I like my job, but I’m considering quitting. Why do so many … [Read more...] about Insecure Boss Treats Me Like a Threat

Dealing with Mean Girls and Mood Leeches

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 … [Read more...] about Dealing with Mean Girls and Mood Leeches

Stronger Together: Networking Tips for Office Managers

Networking isn’t just for job seekers or salespeople—it’s a powerful tool for office managers too. Connecting with other professionals in your field can provide you with a wealth of knowledge, support, and opportunities that can enhance your career and improve your office's operations. One of the best ways to start building your network is by joining professional … [Read more...] about Stronger Together: Networking Tips for Office Managers

Get Buy-In Fast: How to Communicate Change with Confidence

When changes are on the horizon, clear and effective communication is your best tool as an office manager. Whether it's a shift in policy, the introduction of new technology, or a restructuring of roles, how you convey these changes can make all the difference in how they are received and implemented. So, how can you ensure that your communication is clear, effective, and … [Read more...] about Get Buy-In Fast: How to Communicate Change with Confidence

Finding a Mentor: Your Secret Weapon for Career Success

In your journey as an office manager, seeking mentorship can be one of the most valuable steps you take. A mentor can offer guidance, share experiences, and provide insights that might take years to learn on your own. Whether you're new to the role or looking to advance further in your career, having a mentor can accelerate your growth and help you navigate challenges with … [Read more...] about Finding a Mentor: Your Secret Weapon for Career Success

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?

Email Like a Pro: Tips for Clear, Professional Communication

You likely send and receive countless emails daily. Effective email communication is crucial for maintaining professionalism, ensuring clarity, and fostering good relationships with your team, clients, and vendors. Mastering email etiquette can significantly improve how your messages are perceived and ensure smooth, efficient communication. Here’s how you can perfect your email … [Read more...] about Email Like a Pro: Tips for Clear, Professional Communication