Looking at this picture brings a smile to my face. I know that many of my fellow office managers can relate too. There is not a problem out there that we do not try to fix. We may not always succeed, but we try and try again! It is what we are called to do. Computer not functioning, call the office manager. Paper jam in the printer, call the office manager. Toilet over flowing, call the office manager. Car won’t start, call the office manager. I think you get the idea.
Exactly how is it though that we became such experts at everything? I am not sure I have a definite answer, but I can give you my opinion. As office managers, we feel responsible for the entire office and everyone in it. We feel we must be a part of every decision and know the moment something isn’t right. This is crucial to us doing the best job for our practice and our patients,right? Is it really though? Can’t we still be great office managers and delegate a little more? Do I really need to know every single time the printer does not print a prescription, or can I allow someone else to find out why the connection was lost?
Delegating is hard work. After all, when things aren’t running as they should it is ultimately my responsibility. However, we can spread ourselves so thin that we are unable to do the one thing we must and that is we must give everyone on the team the chance to become great leaders. We need to let go of the ties that bind, and teach our team how to function on their own. Most of the time they come to us with everything because we have trained them to do so. Give your team the ability to function on their own. Let them be responsible for putting out the small fires, and acknowledge and thank them for doing a good job. Before you know they will be able to put out those big fires too! The rewards for doing this are numerous, such as more time to spend with patients and allowing our team to help grow themselves and the practice.
So in the words of Lois Banta, I double dog dare you to start delegating today. You will not regret it, and neither will your team!
Contact the ”Front Desk Lady” at lisamarie@tcbdentalconsulting for help with your speaking and training needs. Email me today to schedule your “Comprehensive Exam” and learn more about my 3 month consulting program and fees.
As always, I am here to help you “Take Care of the Business” of your dental front office by “Transforming First Impressions into Best Impressions.”
Visit www.tcbdentalconsulting.com to learn more. Thank you, thank you very much!
Copyright (c) 123RF Stock Photos
