There are many strategies for building successful dental practices; however, dentists should understand that to be effective, strategies should integrate with each other, just like parts of the human body. When one thing is not working well, other things get thrown off.
In some cases, we at Levin Group have observed that the limits of a practice’s growth potential are related to the weakest system in that practice. That said, all aspects of your practice should be effective and function well together. The only way that happens is when the dental team performs as a cohesive group of accountable individuals, each with a clear understanding of their role in the larger organization.
Strategies for building a world-class team
Cultivate effective leadership
After 41 years as the CEO of a dental management consulting firm, I have studied, lectured, and written about leadership hundreds of times. It is one of the most difficult aspects of building a practice, because effective leadership is not achieved within a single step-by-step process. However, building a world-class team does require a dentist who has certain attributes, such as positivity, integrity, dedication, and who is willing to model them to the team.
Never tolerate bad behavior
Dentists should develop a no-tolerance attitude toward negativity in the office. For example, if you have a lazy team member, other team members will either resent that person or emulate their behavior.
Recognize and applaud great performance
All too often, we simply expect people to do a great job, and we do little to express our appreciation. Thanking people and recognizing their good work in front of the entire team goes a long way, and it’s very meaningful to other people.
Follow the systems
I believe we are entering a new era of dentistry. Competition is rising, the economy is uncertain, there are different service delivery models and options, and dental insurance companies are trying to keep reimbursements at the same level or lower.
With these new challenges, practices must be more efficient and have systems that are more effective and current than ever before. Unfortunately, many practices have attempted to put in excellent proven systems without having the team follow them properly. The team must follow the systems exactly as they are laid out so they know what to do, when to do it, how to do it, and what results are expected.
If a team member knows what to do, when to do it, how to do it, and the expected results, you will win. Systems, without question, are the key to successful practices.
We have seen practices sold where the buyer increased production and profit by 50% to 100%, or even more in a short period of time, simply by implementing new systems with energy and excitement. This would indicate that the practice had the potential all along, but the seller or previous owner did not have an understanding that implementing new systems would invigorate their great practice.
Building a world-class team is simply a process. By following the strategies listed above, you will be on your way to a highly satisfying practice environment that attracts the best team members and many patients.
Dr. Roger P. Levin is CEO of Levin Group, a leading practice management and marketing consulting firm. To contact him or to join the 40,000 dental professionals who receive his Practice Production Tip of the Day, visit LevinGroup.com or email [email protected].
The comments and observations expressed herein do not necessarily reflect the opinions of DrBicuspid.com, nor should they be construed as an endorsement or admonishment of any particular idea, vendor, or organization.
