As dental professionals, we recognize that hiring and onboarding new team members is time-consuming and costly. According to a Society for Human Resource Management study, replacing an employee can require six to nine months' worth of their salary -- a significant investment. In today's dental industry, finding and retaining qualified staff for the long term poses even more critical challenges. However, a powerful solution can alleviate this stress: employee appreciation.
The impact of employee appreciation
McKenzie Webb
Retention boost
Employee appreciation isn't just a feel-good gesture; it directly impacts retention rates. A study by Glassdoor revealed that 81% of employees are more likely to stay with a company that genuinely appreciates their contributions. Conversely, lack of recognition ranks high among the reasons employees cite as to why they leave their jobs.
Performance and morale
Beyond retention, appreciation positively influences job performance and team morale. When team members feel valued, they're motivated to excel. Simple acts of recognition can transform ordinary tasks into meaningful accomplishments.
Practical ways to show appreciation
Verbal recognition
Sometimes, a heartfelt "thank you" or acknowledging specific achievements can work wonders. Break the habit of assuming that recognition is reserved only for significant milestones. Take it further by writing personalized notes expressing gratitude for their hard work. These small gestures create a culture of appreciation.
Unexpected treats and rewards
Tangible rewards resonate with team members. Consider options such as:
- Gift cards: Treat them to their favorite coffee shop or local eatery.
- Company-branded merchandise: Gift practical items like branded apparel or accessories.
- Special perks: Consider giving staff extra vacation days or spa gift cards -- these unexpected treats make a lasting impact.
Work-life balance
Encourage a healthy equilibrium between work and personal life. Show understanding when team members need time off or flexible schedules. Prioritize their well-being, and they'll reciprocate with dedication.
Encouraging work-life balance within your dental practice is not only a compassionate gesture, it's a strategic investment in your team's well-being and overall productivity.
Here's how you can foster this essential equilibrium:
- Microbreaks: Throughout the workday, encourage team members to take short breaks. These moments of respite allow them to recharge, refocus, and maintain optimal performance. Whether it's a brief walk, a few minutes of stretching, or a mindful pause, these small breaks contribute to overall well-being.
- Vacations: Paid time off (PTO) policies are crucial. Ensure team members feel empowered to use their allotted vacation days without hesitation. Whether it's a "use it or lose it" approach or a rollover policy, communicate the importance of taking time away from work. Vacations provide mental rejuvenation, prevent burnout, and enhance long-term productivity.
The impact of rest and rejuvenation
When employees return from a well-deserved break, they often bring renewed energy and enthusiasm. A rested mind is more creative, focused, and motivated. This positive mindset translates into higher efficiency during work hours.
Chronic stress and overwork lead to burnout, a detrimental state affecting individuals and organizations. By actively promoting work-life balance, you mitigate the risk of burnout, ensuring sustained performance and job satisfaction.
Beyond the workplace
Regularly expressing your appreciation to your dental team members has the following rippling benefits:
- Individual happiness: Achieving work-life balance isn't solely about professional success, it significantly impacts one's personal happiness. When team members feel supported in balancing work and life responsibilities, their overall quality of life improves.
- Organizational success: A content and balanced workforce contributes to a thriving practice. A workplace culture that values well-being reduces turnover, increases loyalty, and enhances teamwork.
- Societal well-being: Recognize that your practice exists within a broader societal context. By prioritizing work-life balance, you contribute to a healthier, happier community where individuals thrive personally and professionally.
In summary, work-life balance isn't a luxury; it's an essential component of employee appreciation. By championing this cause, you demonstrate genuine concern for your team's holistic welfare. By combining these employee appreciation tactics, we can quickly and effectively show team members that they are valued within our practice. Remember, employee appreciation isn't a one-time event, it's an ongoing commitment. By fostering a culture of gratitude, you'll retain your rockstar team and elevate your dental practice to new heights.
Editor's note: As a reminder, Dental Assistants Recognition Week is slated for March 2-8, 2025.
McKenzie Webb served as an office manager for more than five years before working as a practice performance coach for a dental service organization in the Oklahoma City area. Webb joined Jameson Management and Marketing as a marketing project coordinator. Webb is a member of the American Association of Dental Office Management (AADOM). She received her AADOM fellowship designation in 2018, her mastership designation in 2022, and her diplomate designation 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.
