Dentistry continues to evolve, especially on the business side. To be successful in today's competitive environment, dentists will need to make improvements to their management and marketing systems. Team members also will need to be receptive when asked to work differently than in the past.
Be honest about your practice's weaknesses. When you analyze your practice as a business, you need a straightforward appraisal of where your practice is weak. Some doctors and staff members try to hide or minimize their practices' shortcomings, but you'll be better off acknowledging them. It's the only way to begin figuring out how to make improvements in these areas.
Don't forget to give patients credit. If you're making changes based on patient feedback, let patients know that you're responding to -- and appreciate -- their suggestions. This will demonstrate that you value their opinions highly and will also encourage them to offer more improvement ideas.
Roger P. Levin, DDS, is the CEO of Levin Group, a leading dental management consulting firm, and one of the most sought-after speakers in dentistry. Dr. Levin has authored 65 books and more than 4,000 articles on dental practice management and marketing. You can sign up for the Levin Group Tip of the Day.
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