What in the world does a title like that mean? That is most likely the question you asked yourself when you read it. Catchy though, right? And, seriously, who doesn't love a good waffle? But the real question is, what does that have to do with leadership and your team?
Tamela Jones.
It has to do with showing appreciation. Supporting your team or showing them that you care doesn't have to break the bank. There are numerous ways you can demonstrate appreciation in simple, cost-effective ways. Read on to find out just what winning with waffles means!
Just a simple handwritten thank-you card speaks volumes and many times is more appreciated than anything that money can buy. Did you see someone do something extra? Did an assistant take the time to sit in the reception area to assist an elderly guardian in completing needed patient information on an iPad when he was struggling? Or did your surgery coordinator go the extra mile to ensure that a child in pain was taken care of on short notice?
These are great reasons to jot a little note to a team member. Do you need a reason? Nope. You could take the time to write a note to each of the members of your team.
Another simple idea is to have little sayings printed out and attach them to a candy bar, etc. Simple ideas include: "Thank you for all you do! You deserve a break" attached to a KitKat. Or attach "You are a star, and we are bursting with appreciation" to a Starburst package. "We would fall to pieces without you" would go with Reese's Pieces. "Thank you for the extra effort you make every day" with a pack of Extra gum. Or buy a box of Drumstick ice cream cones for an afternoon break with a sign that says, "Here's the scoop ... you are the best team ever!" Let the creativity flow and see where it can take you.
Involve your team in showing appreciation to each other and acknowledgment when they see a team member going above and beyond or when they want to say thank you for lending a helping hand.
These simple acts can be done throughout the year, but during November, my team is encouraged to write a note to each of their teammates saying why they are thankful for them. Some of the notes are silly, some are heartfelt for sure, but each one makes a statement as to what every employee brings to the team.
If you decide to make this a year-round show of appreciation, you could hold a monthly or quarterly drawing using slips of paper printed with team members' names selected randomly out of a jar for some prize. Ideas could include a gift card to a favorite store, a gas card (who doesn't need this these days), lunch with you or the doctor, or perhaps they get the prized office parking spot for the month!
What about the waffles? Well, there was a sale on a set of mini appliances: a set of four (a waffle maker, omelet maker, grill, and donut maker). It was on clearance after the holidays for $10. A box of waffle mix and a bottle of syrup later, and you will never see a happier team! Less than $20, and everyone could enjoy them. It was a win for the team because they could make a quick breakfast, snack, or lunch.
Whatever the reason -- or even for no reason at all -- finding ways to celebrate your team not only makes them feel appreciated, but it is fulfilling to know that you showed the members of your team that they are valued every day and that maybe, just maybe, you won them with waffles!
Tamela Jones is a Missouri native and has been a member of the American Association of Dental Office Management (AADOM) since 2017. She received her AADOM Master Distinction in 2022 and her AADOM Diplomate Distinction in 2024.
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.
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