Six Qualities an Employer Looks for In A Medical Office Assistant
Besides the knowledge and understanding it takes to become a Medical Office Assistant, many other different traits and qualities exist that are required for the job too.
If you’re beginning the Medical Office Assistant Program at Trillium College– or interested in it – you are definitely at the right place! We pride ourselves in being passionate about what we have to offer for students, which is nothing but the best.
A day in the life of a Medical Office Assistant unfortunately can’t be described as relaxed or easy-going. Like many jobs, with more work comes more responsibility. There are many responsibilities, duties, and tasks that a Medical Office Assistant must take care of. What makes being a Medical Office Assistant so unique is that no day is the same. If you haven’t already learned, being a Medical Office Assistant is almost being a jack-of-all-trades. Medical components, clinical, office and even physical components can be required in the job.
Being in the medical administrative field requires a few other qualities to have. Employers know you have the education credentials, but they also want to see the extra qualities that can differentiate you from the rest. This is what they are:
1. Patience
As mentioned, a lot of days on the job are not the same. Some days are slower, and other days you may find yourself at a faster pace. When working at clinics or hospitals, you interact with many different people such as patients, families, friends, etc. because everyone wants answers. A lot can be expected from a Medical Office Assistant, whether it is from the health care providers, or the patients. It is important to keep a cool ground. The calmer and more patient you are, the more efficiently you are able to work, which creates a well-functioning work environment.
2. Communication
The ability to communicate properly and effectively is important in every job. In the life of a Medical Office Assistant, delivering key messages to the proper people whether it is a health practitioner, patient, or coworker is crucial. Communication is key across all spectrums. It is important to understand all incoming messages and instructions in order to execute tasks correctly.
3. Organization
Days can get hectic and all of a sudden, the task you were originally working on begins to get pushed back because of another incoming task. Staying organized plays a key role when managing tasks and responsibilities as a Medical Office Assistant. What does organization exactly mean? It means knowing how to prioritize your tasks and taking initiative to create a productive environment for yourself and everyone else.
4. Positive and Energetic
Although this trait can be forgotten about, it is an important trait to have. It’s refreshing to see a positive attitude or smile in any workplace. It can make a significant difference in the medical field when certain days aren’t so bright for some patients or families, and makes a difference in your working environment. There are good days and there are bad days, but being able to smile through it all makes it special!
5. Proactive
Being proactive is another word for taking initiative, such as taking things into your own hands. It means doing something without having to be told to do it. It’s essentially being one step ahead of everyone else. Quickly learn what is expected of you and of your role as a Medical Office Assistant, then go ahead and do it. Note, it’s important to work responsibility. If you are unsure of an answer or how to do something, asking questions is always great and crucial when working with patients.
6. Empathetic
Having empathy means having the ability to understand and share the feelings of others. Often, the medical field is recognized as a career where you must put your emotions aside and focus on the work needed. When working closely with patients, being empathetic is a great trait to have to connect with patients.
Are you ready to begin your new career?
The career of a Medical Office Assistant can be very promising, in respect to salary and lifestyle! Many Medical Office Assistants have been able to find a job after graduating their respective programs and are happy with their careers. Trillium College believes in creating strong knowledge for every single student in every program. Fill out the form below to get in touch with our Career Coaches and begin your new career today!
