Why it is Important to Lead by Example
As an office manager, you have a big influence over your team. How you act will affect how your employees act. Managers must be mindful of their actions and behavior; your team is watching you to see what is expected and what they can get away with.
Here are some examples of how I lead my team.
1. Come to Work with High Energy and Enthusiasm
Prioritize your sleep and rest to ensure you will have good energy and exercise for a healthy body. If you spend several hours a day seated at your desk, set a reminder on your watch to stand and stretch during the day. Incorporate physical activity into your work day by taking a walk during your lunch break. Set a good example and invite your teammates to join you.
Eat nutritious meals and bring healthy food to work for lunch and snacks. Provide healthy snacks in your break room to encourage your team to eat healthy. Keep hydrated; dehydration can affect energy levels. Provide water and reusable water bottles for your team. What you eat and drink can impact your focus and energy levels.
2. Take Care of Your Mental Health
Maintain a work-life balance, take lunch breaks, take time for a quick meditation or deep breathing, and leave on time at the end of the day. Do not work unnecessary overtime. Sometimes, as managers, we think we need to work overtime even though no one has asked or expected that of us.
Delegate tasks and prioritize working smart and efficiently so both you and the team can leave on time and not risk burnout. Do not send late-night or weekend texts and emails to team members.
There should be clear boundaries between work and personal life.
3. Work with Your Team
Spend time working alongside your team. Be a part of their day, and help when needed. Understand each team member’s responsibilities and help them with daily checklists.
Be sure they have enough time to complete their tasks and that they are not overscheduled. Give a person full attention when they are talking. Address their concerns and help come up with solutions and positive actions. Respond to people and make decisions in a timely manner.
If your team sees you as their leader, be sure to act like one. Be willing to complete any task you expect your team to complete. For example, if cardboard needs to be broken down or the restroom needs to be stocked or cleaned, get it done. No job is below you. A manager should always be available and willing to help.
4. Follow the Rules of the Office
A manager should always follow all the rules that employees are expected to follow. If you break the rules, the team will feel it is acceptable for them to break their rules.
Some examples are to arrive on time for your shifts, have a great attendance record, keep cell phone use to a minimum, follow the dress code, and be well-groomed. Be professional, but also set time to have fun.
A fun work environment can lead to increased morale and motivation and boost team performance.
Managers make mistakes, too. When that happens, admit to your failures and learn from them. Be proactive and accountable, and use your mistake as a teaching moment.
5. Attend Webinars and Training
You set an example for your team by actively working on developing your skills. Share what you learned with your team and encourage them to take classes as well. Let your team know what classes they need for their job, help them find classes, and give them time to complete them.
A well-trained office staff is crucial for patient satisfaction and practice success. A knowledgeable team builds trust and confidence with patients.
6. Be Professional
Focus on strong communication, leadership, and organization skills. Watch your words and actions.
Your team will follow your actions. If they see you acting unprofessionally, having conversations that are not appropriate for work, or gossiping, they will think it is ok for them to do it too.
Communicate clearly with your team. Have hard conversations when necessary. Maintain a positive attitude even when dealing with challenging situations. Always act with integrity in all aspects of your work.
Lead Through Actions, Not Just Words
In conclusion, guide your team with your behavior, not just your words. Do not say one thing and do another. Leading by example will build trust and respect, create a positive work culture, and boost employee satisfaction.
About the Author
Donna Nucera, MAADOM
Donna began her career in the dental field in 1985 with an after-school job. She has worked as an assistant and on administrative teams over the years and transitioned to Office Manager at Upper Montclair Dental Associates in 2022.
Donna received her FAADOM in 2023 and her MAADOM in 2025.
