Open to Opinions

We encourage open communication to allow everyone to voice their opinions pertaining to the patients and the practice.   Doctors, managers and team members are often surprised when a co-worker who never participates starts speaking up at our workshop.  I have often found that when a team member doesn't speak up it's because they feel they have been shot down in the past.  They believe their opinion didn't count so they stopped sharing.  When team members feel their opinion is welcomed and valuable they become more engaged.

Everyone on the team has the right to express their opinion and be heard without being criticized or made to feel stupid.  Instead share constructive feedback with the team member why you feel it may or may not work.  Being open to opinions means we at least consider the idea.  Considering a team member's input can often lead to better decision-making.  This is because the team members are often the ones directly doing the task, process or service and understand the limitations as well as the possibilities.  When team members feel they are involved in decisions, they take greater ownership for the outcomes.  Ownership is a sign they are engaged!       

Constructive Feedback

We actually schedule feedback time with team members.  If we don't schedule the time chances are it won't happen.  Many offices schedule annual employee performance reviews.  Meeting and discussing progress, achievements and goals on an annual basis is not enough to get engagement.  How engaged or involved would you be in a relationship where you only had a deeper conversation once a year?

What works well is a quick (5 to 10 minute) monthly or quarterly Checkup (to create well being) with the manager or doctor touching base on their progress, achievements and goals.  Questions to ask are:

• What where your goals for this period?
• What accomplishments would you like to celebrate?
• What are your goals or projects for the next period?
• How can I best support you?  

We also establish an open door meeting policy where team members can request to schedule time as needed.  Scheduling time helps avoid constant interruptions and creates a more focused agenda.  Giving timely constructive feedback will help keep your team engaged.    

Opportunity for Personal and Professional Growth