Good Vs. Not So Good
(Use this simple checklist to see how many “good” vs. “not so good” things are happenning in your dental practice.)
GOOD
Every team member, including the doctor, shows up at least 30 minutes before the first patient is scheduled, and a well-organized morning huddle is part of the routine.
NOT SO GOOD
People show up at the same time the first patient is scheduled and the day is full of chaos and putting out fires.
GOOD
The office policy is “We do not run late.” Protocols, scheduling, emergencies, and all decisions are based on that.
NOT SO GOOD
Patients are kept waiting on a routine basis, giving them the not-so-subtle message that their time is not respected.
GOOD
The treatment that is best for the patient is the standard of care.
NOT SO GOOD
Treatment decisions are made with insurance coverage as a primary factor.
GOOD
Management decisions are made based on understanding the data and KPIs.
NOT SO GOOD
Just get the patients in and treat them as best you can; management decisions are seat-of-the-pants.
GOOD
Regular team meetings are constructive, educational, fun, and a great time for team bonding.
NOT SO GOOD
We don’t do team meetings anymore because they just became finger-pointing bitch sessions.
GOOD
Patients accept treatment because we have gone out of our way to garner trust and respect, and we provide an incredible patient experience.
NOT SO GOOD
We throw a huge comprehensive treatment plan at a patient, and then try to “educate” them in a pressure-filled environment.
GOOD
We’re a team. We pitch in to help one another.
NOT SO GOOD
“That’s not my job!”
GOOD
“Thank you for calling Harbor East Family Dentistry, this is Florence speaking, I can help you!”
NOT SO GOOD
“Dental office, hold please!” (Even worse: “If you’re hearing this message during regular office hours, we’re busy treating other patients.”)
GOOD
We provide top-notch treatment but are still mindful of expenses and keep our overhead reasonable.
NOT SO GOOD
Focusing on the latest technology and gadgetry hoping it will grow the practice has dug a debt hole that we can’t get out of.
GOOD
Everyone on our team has passed the “Seating Chart Rule.”
NOT SO GOOD
Queen bees, backstabbing, and gossip have caused a toxic work environment.
GOOD
We understand that we can’t do it all, and have grown the practice AND practice happiness using truly customized dental coaching.
NOT SO GOOD
We’re doing the same old thing and expecting different results!
