Leadership during unprecedented times is critical, as your employees need direction, and they are looking to you for answers. As a dentist you’re used to providing care for your patients, signing off on payroll, and facilitating team meetings, but what about leadership? With sufficient planning and execution, leadership will foster the success of your practice. Now is the time to step up and be a leader. Your team is counting on you! Bryant Consultants understand the influence of leadership, which is why we are sharing how to be a leader during turbulent times so that your practice not only survives but also thrives.
Watch, Listen, Validate, and Support Your Team
When there is uncertainty, it may be scary for team members. Some people are emotional because of stress, anxiety, or change. Therefore, reach out to your team to find out how they are doing and what they are feeling. Also, ask them if there is anything you can do to help them. Encourage your team to share what they are thinking, so you can validate their thoughts and know how you can help them. Our dental practice consultants recommend holding weekly meetings (can be done virtually or over the phone) to engage with your team. Choose a time that works best for most, but don’t exclude people who are unable to commit to a specific time. Remember to be flexible right now. You could offer to record the meeting and send it to your employees to view at a more convenient time.
Perspective of Circumstances
No matter how difficult or frustrated you become, how you approach the situation could change your perspective from negative to learning and growing. During times of turbulence, use the experience to learn more about yourself, your staff, and your business. If continually watching the news puts you in a bad mood, then turn it off and set aside a designated time of day to catch up on what is happening in the media. Instead, practice some self-care by making sure you get enough sleep, eat healthy, and exercise to boost your mood. Find out what makes you feel relaxed and calm, and do more of that! If that means going on a job or relaxing with a motivation book, do it. Get your mind focused in the right place, especially before you meet with your team.
Appreciation and Assurance
Although your team may not be in the office, continue building relationships with them. Helping them feel like they are part of the family should create a feeling of belonging. Check on them, send texts, make phone calls, or even send them a handwritten card. If you are financially able, consider adding a gift card for them to use towards groceries or something that they can cash in on later. It’s not always about money, though, sometimes your team just needs to hear it from you that everything is going to be ok. Some things are out of your control right now, but you still can communicate with your team. It’s better that they hear news about the practice from you rather than from someone else. Your team needs to know their leader has their best interest in mind and not just company driven directives. Share with your team plans you have to protect and support them and their families during the time of crisis.
Dental Practice Consultants
Navigating turbulent times can be challenging when you are unsure of what needs to be done. Focusing on your team and its success should provide success for a dental practice. If you are unsure how to get your team in the right direction, feel free to contact Bryant Consultants for a consultation. Simply call our office at (877) 768-4799 or visit our website to schedule a consultation today.
