As a born Calgarian, and a bred southern Albertan, I shouldn’t be surprised by the weather at this time of the year. Despite years of experience, it still catches me off guard. Do you notice this trend happening in your practice too? Just when we think we’ve got this time of year figured out, it changes on us.
You may be able to relate to this observation. January is usually the slow month with people recovering from December bills, colds they caught from family gatherings, and the general malaise that accompanies the month. This year, for whatever reason, January was quite a good month! Then February hit and did it ever hit hard. It’s a short month already which reduces the number of production days, but then it also seemed to be the month where everyone got sick. The good news is we made it, and March is upon us.
How do we weather these changes?? Outside the answer is lots of windshield wiper fluid and shoes with a good grip. Inside, well let’s explore that…
- Dedicated team…years ago I attended a dental seminar. To be honest I don’t remember the topic, but what has stuck with me for decades is the word “staff”. The host suggested that “staff” is an infection (referring to staph), not a group of committed individuals dedicated to providing a high level of service to your patients and clients. Wow did that stick. You will not hear me utter the word, and if I write it, it’s because Google and SEO told me to. How do you treat your team? Do they feel acknowledged for the work they do? Do you clearly state your expectations? Are they allowed to exercise some autonomy in their role or are you constantly over their shoulder. Money is important and we all need it to live, but if you ask your team, you may be surprised to learn it’s not what matters most.
- Solid systems…nothing needs to be set in stone. Dentistry changes, insurance changes, patient expectations change and we must be flexible. To a degree. The best systems are those with a solid foundation that allow for creativity and flexibility when wanted and needed. Having to guess how to deal with a situation or a protocol on a daily basis creates exhaustion and unrest for all. Not to mention the number of mistakes that are made. Systems must be well thought out, written down and replicable.
- Committed patient base…marketing in dentistry is absolutely necessary to ensure that your message is delivered to your patients, and potential patients. Hire an expert like I have, thank you Effortless Marketing…and then focus on your role. What is that role? To ensure that the words, photos and messages in your marketing are truly what the patient will experience in your practice. It is up to us to deliver what we promise. Internal marketing is 100% your responsibility. Asking your patients to refer their friends and family to your practice can have a significant impact on your patient base numbers.
- Spring cleaning…experiencing those moments where the sun makes everything feel warm, and the windows can be open for a short period during the day reminds us that spring is coming. While you have your own routine for your home and your self care, what does spring cleaning look like in your practice. Is it actually cleaning? Tackling those dusting and organizing jobs that are outside of your janitor’s responsibility? Updating your PIA and IPC manuals? Reach out – we can help with these. Updating patient forms, websites, email signatures? Heading into the spring with your dental house in order is a great way to start the season.
Dentistry can be lonely, but it doesn’t have to be! Reach out today to learn how Tayden Consulting can help with the systems so that you can enjoy your fall without worry and stress.
Our team of Dental Consultants at Tayden Consulting Inc. specialize in
providing on-site coaching to create the optimal experience
for your patients, and the most efficient systems for your team.
Contact us today for a free consultation! We look forward to meeting you.