Finding Balance in Managing Your Staff
Eyecare professionals are trained to approach challenges methodically and with precision—a mindset that extends beyond patient care and into managing staff. While organization and structure are essential, overmanaging staff can stifle creativity, reduce morale, and hinder the efficiency of your practice. It’s important to find a balance and strategies to help you empower your team without micromanaging.
Tip: Learn to differentiate between critical issues that require your intervention and day-to-day tasks that your team can handle independently.
1. Trust in Their Expertise
Your staff was hired for their skills and experience. Whether it’s your front desk coordinator, optician, or technician, each team member plays a specific role in ensuring the success of your practice. Micromanaging their every move can signal a lack of trust, which may lead to disengagement or frustration.
2. Encourage Ownership
Overmanaging can prevent employees from taking ownership of their responsibilities. When given room to make decisions, employees often rise to the occasion, demonstrating innovation and problem-solving skills. Offer guidance, when necessary, but resist the urge to step in unless needed.
3. Avoid Decision Bottlenecks
When every decision, big or small, must pass through you, it slows down workflow and can create unnecessary stress for your staff. Empowering your team to make routine decisions keeps the practice running smoothly and fosters a sense of autonomy.
4. Foster a Collaborative Culture
Micromanaging often creates a top-down dynamic that discourages open communication. Instead, aim for a collaborative culture in which ideas and feedback flow freely. Regular team meetings offer a platform for staff to discuss challenges and successes.
5. Give Constructive Feedback, Not Constant Corrections
Frequent corrections can erode confidence and create tension in the workplace. Instead, provide constructive feedback at regular intervals, ensuring that it’s balanced with positive reinforcement. Acknowledge achievements before discussing areas for improvement, and regularly express appreciation for your staff’s contributions.
Have you found strategies to avoid overmanaging your staff? Tell us about it and share in the conversation on Facebook here.
