Finding the Right Team Is Getting Harder and What Employers Are Doing About It

This study and interviews were conducted by OM Marketing.

Earlier this year, OM Magazine spoke with employers and practice leaders from across the country as part of a national study conducted in January. These weren’t formal interviews. They were honest, real conversations about what it’s like to hire and manage teams today. One theme came up in nearly every discussion: hiring and keeping good people is more challenging than ever before. It wasn’t said with frustration. It was said with honesty. From front desk staff and medical assistants to billing teams, coordinators, and leadership roles, the story was the same. What used to work no longer does. And figuring out what does work feels like learning a whole new job. But these weren’t just conversations about the problems. They were full of ideas, new thinking, and real efforts to adapt. Across the board, employers are finding creative ways to strengthen their teams and hold onto the people who keep their practices running. There’s still a lot of hope. And a lot of progress being made.

What Employers Are Seeing

Several patterns came up again and again. If any of these sound familiar, you’re not alone. Generations are working side by side—with different expectations

It’s common to see team members in their 20s working with those in their 50s or 60s. This generational mix can be powerful, but it can also create friction. What feels like common sense to one team member might not be for another. That’s why clear communication, patience, and understanding matter more than ever.

Work means something different now

Younger employees value flexibility, mental health, and purpose. These are no longer optional. If they don’t feel supported, they move on. Quickly. And more experienced employees are adjusting to the changing pace and new expectations that didn’t exist when they started.

Remote work reshaped team dynamics

Some roles can now be done from home, and for many, it’s an expectation. But for employers, this adds complexity. How do you maintain a strong culture when some of your team is remote? How do you keep everyone aligned and accountable?

Everyone’s carrying more

Turnover, onboarding, and filling gaps have taken a toll. Many leaders shared how draining it feels to keep starting over while juggling the demands of daily operations.

What Employers Are Doing That’s Working

Despite the challenges, we heard countless examples of smart, simple strategies that are making a real difference.

1. Setting clear expectations

Many employers said they’ve stopped assuming anything. Instead, they define expectations up front—what showing up on time looks like, what professionalism means, how communication should work. These things are written down, discussed during onboarding, and reinforced in team check-ins.

2. Hiring for attitude, not just experience

The best hires aren’t always the most experienced. They’re the ones who show up curious, reliable, and ready to learn. Many practices are shifting their focus from resumes to people who care and are willing to grow.

3. Offering growth opportunities—even in small ways

Leaders are finding ways to keep their teams engaged by offering cross-training, introducing new tools, or involving staff in small projects. Growth doesn’t always mean promotions. It’s about helping employees feel like they matter and are part of something meaningful.

4. Allowing flexibility where it fits

Remote work doesn’t work for every role, but in areas like billing, authorizations, or scheduling, some practices are offering that flexibility. The key is having clear guidelines, keeping communication strong, and making sure remote staff are just as included as in-office team members.

5. Talking through the tough stuff

One of the most impactful things we heard was this: the strongest teams are having the hard conversations. They talk about generational differences, what works for them, and how they can collaborate better. It’s not always easy, but it builds trust and understanding.