Orthodontic practices, like most businesses, can benefit greatly by continually developing their teams. And it all starts with culture. The culture of the practice will determine the energy, enthusiasm, and attitude of the team. So how do you determine and develop the culture?
The best way to identify and create a specific culture is by first understanding the core values of a practice. Core values can include concepts such as compassion, integrity, enthusiasm, work ethic, commitment to patients, trust, fun, continual learning, and quality. If you need help brainstorming ideas for how to define your culture, refer to the internet for lists of values to get the ball rolling. It is important that you identify YOUR core values, but here are a few examples:
- Excellence – Outstanding service for every patient.
- Community – Our community inspires us.
- Integrity – We uphold the highest standards of integrity in all of our actions.
- Quality – We provide outstanding and unsurpassed service and treatment.
- Team Member Growth – Our success depends on the contributions of all.
Work with your team to identify 3 to 5 core values that truly represent your practice. Everyone must agree that they are non-negotiable and what everyone must live by. Make sure to gain input from the team because you don’t want this to be just a top–down activity. When your team is part of the development of the practice core values, their commitment will be high.
Post the core values in the staff room and be sure to talk about them at your meetings. They will gradually become the culture if you truly believe in them, talk about them and work to live them. As the culture develops, the team will rise to a higher level than ever before and practice performance will continually improve.
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