Dental office transitions can represent a challenging time in the dental office. Transitions can happen for a number of reasons – buy outs, buy-ins, associate buy-ins, associateships, mergers, roll-ups, or affiliations. All these different transitions require different strategies to keep an office running smoothly while the transition is happening. However, all these transitions can be helped along by implementing certain strategies in regard to the dental office staff. While the transition can bring about many changes, including changes to the ownership, location, or structure, it is important to make sure that the staff is supported during this time. With proper support, the dental practice can continue to function effectively. This blog will focus on what you can do to manage a dental office transition effectively.
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Keep employees informed
The most important thing that you can do to support your employees during a transition is to keep them informed about the dental office transition process from the very beginning. By letting employees know what changes are happening, why they are happening, and how the transition will affect them, you can help to reduce anxiety and uncertainty among the staff. This will, in turn, allow them to focus on the tasks at hand rather than worry about the transition. It is important to let the staff know as soon as possible when new information arises. During a transition, the staff members must make the decision whether to stay with the old practice or to move on to a new one. Allowing staff to know of changes as soon as possible gives them plenty of time to make these difficult decisions.
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Set clear expectations
If the members do decide that they will stay with the old practice, their roles may change. Because of this, it is important to set clear expectations regarding the staff’s new roles and responsibilities. Outlining any changes to their job duties or the practice’s policies and procedures is an important part of this process. Everyone should understand what is expected of them and how they can contribute to the continuing success of the practice.
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Offer support
Because a transition can be a time that is wrought with anxiety, your staff may need support during this time. Staff may be dealing with changes both to their roles in the office and to a new doctor with new expectations. Providing training for new systems that are being put into place or offering resources that can help them get used to new procedures can go a long way toward supporting the staff during this transition. However, it is not only systems and procedures that are likely changing. Your staff may need emotional support as well. Long-time loyal employees can be taken aside and personally asked about their concerns. Allowing them a chance to talk about their worries and addressing them can go a long way to helping your staff feel supported and heard. Assuring the staff that their jobs, salaries, and benefits will not change can also help staffers to feel supported.
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Provide incentives
During a dental office transition, the morale of the staff is very important. If the office is changing hands, it is beneficial for the new dentist to maintain the old staff. One way to do this is to offer incentives such as bonuses, recognition, or professional development opportunities. They could also let the staff know about enhancements or new benefits to existing health plans. Showing the staff that their hard work and dedication are valued can go a long way toward maintaining a positive and motivated team.
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Be flexible
Flexibility is key during a dental office transition. The staff will be dealing with changes that come with a change in leadership. This can require time to adapt. There may be unexpected changes or challenges that arise, and it is important to be able to adjust to these situations quickly and effectively. Be open to feedback from your staff and be willing to make adjustments to the transition process as needed while the staffers acclimate to the new dentist.
Supporting your staff during a dental office transition is difficult but can be done. This time period requires clear communication and transparency to allow for staff transition – whether the integration of new staffers or the simple transition of the staff from one managing style to another. By keeping your staff informed, setting clear expectations, providing support, encouraging open communication, offering incentives, and being flexible, you can ensure that your practice continues to function effectively during this transition period.
If you are thinking of transitioning your dental office, we at Bryant Consultants can help. Partnered with Tony Myers, a dental practice transitions consultant with over 30 years of experience, we can help you realize your vision in the most effective way possible. To learn more or get started, contact info@bryantconsultants or call (877) 768-4799.
