Dos and don'ts for practice production: Delegate everything possible

One of the most common limits on the growth potential of a dental practice is the dentist who micromanages. This behavior radically reduces the amount of time that can be spent on production. It also prevents staff from developing appropriate skills and a sense of purpose -- both of which are invaluable practice assets.

Concentrate on dentistry. Unlike leaders of many other types of businesses, dentists are the main producers in a dental practice. Every minute spent doing charts, checking supplies, or conducting marketing activities results in lost production.

Don't micromanage. Letting go of hands-on involvement in the routine, day-to-day details of running a practice is not easy for dentists who believe that "if you want it done right, you have to do it yourself." However, micromanagement results in microsuccess.