ABSTRACT
This chapter looks at some of the ways to improve relationships in practices by examining leadership, communication, personality and motivation. In general practice, personnel issues are usually managed reasonably well, where management deals with the short term, operational level of business management. Human resource management, however, is strategic and long term. If managers work on cultural issues, the organisation will move beyond directing and controlling people. People management then becomes a key element in the strategic planning of a business. Practices can only achieve by the co-ordinated efforts of their members, and it is the manager’s task to get work done through other people. Practice managers need to lead their organisation towards the cutting edge of change. Managers need to be able to recognise potential and harness talent to meet the needs of the organisation. In recruiting, practice managers tend to seek people who are goal oriented, consistent and enjoy taking initiative.
