1. Job requirements. It is important to know what this position entails, so you don't get caught out at the interview. Job duties include supervising the day to day workings of a medical clinic or practice. This position is also referred to as the administrator or medical practice manager. As a medical office manager you would handle everything from employees to creating new systems, rosters and budgeting. It certainly is a multi-faceted job which asks for an individual with the right blend of skills, experience and maturity.



2. The best skills. To get a position as a medical office manager, you will need to prove that you have what it takes from the start. This means having a good résumé and performing well in the interview. Good organizational skills, self motivation and attention to detail are important. It wouldn't be going too far to say that if you are a perfectionist with high standards you would be a good match for this post. In addition to all this, a medical office manager must be a good communicator and be very approachable in order to deal with clashes between staff and clients. Due to the budgeting aspect of this job, a course in math would be useful. In the event that you're ever needed to substitute staff or help hire or train a new staff member, it is a good idea to know what these other positions entail also. This is not the sort of job you can jump into straight from high school – well honed managerial skills are needed.

3. Get a good education. Improving your likelihood of getting a position as a medical office manager means you may need to meet the specific requirements of the practice you're aiming to work at. You will probably need an undergraduate degree, to start but an MBA or Masters in health administration would be preferable. Another course that would look good on your résumé would be CMOM (Certified Medical Office Manager) or something similar.

4. Prove you are the one for the job. At the job interview, really highlight your skills and experience. You can still get a job as a medical office manager without all the relevant experience or the exact educational requirements if you can argue that prior positions have been good preparation for this job. If you have had experience as a manager and are used to a fast-paced work environment this will stand you in good stead. Being used to working longer than a regular 40 hour week is another asset. Talk up about your abilities in problem solving, managing, and organizing. Think about what skill sets the potential employer might be looking out for and try to match as many of those as you have.

5. Bring a good set of references. You still may not get the medical office manager job unless your references are legitimate. Have some good referees who sing your praises as an office manager. This will be a great help in getting the job you have always wanted as a medical office manager.