Accountability is a key factor in the success of any practice or business. Practices with low accountability often experience breakdowns in the systems, lower practice production, and more stress. The more accountable the team, the more efficient the practice, and the better the systems are followed. This all typically leads to higher production, profit, and income. It also leads to a happier and more satisfying career for everyone in the practice and to building and maintaining an excellent team environment.
Always give a deadline. Nothing creates more accountability breakdowns than the absence of a deadline. If you ask a team member to complete a task without a deadline and you want it done today, the team member may think it’s OK to wait a week. Furthermore, when you provide a deadline, it gives the team member an opportunity to decide whether they can get it done, and it helps you to determine if adjustments need to be made.
Don’t forget to ask if there are any questions. Create an environment where team members are always comfortable asking doctors, office managers, or each other questions when accepting a task. Good questions can save lots of time and energy, and the desired result is more likely to be achieved.
Dr. Roger P. Levin is CEO of Levin Group, a leading practice management and marketing consulting firm. To contact him or to join the 40,000 dental professionals who receive his Practice Production Tip of the Day, visit LevinGroup.com or email [email protected].
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