Question: How can I implement change without rocking the boat?
ANSWER: We answered a similar question a few weeks ago and you can read it here. Change can make employees feel uncomfortable because it’s unknown and different. If they’ve always done it this way, you’re asking them to change a habit. When I ask why they do what they do, I hear the same answer from each and every employee: “Because that’s the way we have always done it.” The employees have no idea why they are doing these extra tasks or answering the phones the way they do. They just keep on doing it that way because it’s how they were originally trained, and they never stop to think, “Why do we do this? Is this necessary? Is there a more efficient way?”
I suggest taking a moment to review all the systems you have in place, and decide if they are necessary and producing the intended results. Analyze if there might be a better way or a more efficient way.[mepr-show if=”loggedout”]
[/mepr-show] [mepr-active memberships=”629,630,37388,37393,37672,37676,37670,37668,37674,44674,232156″ ifallowed=”show” unauth=”message” unauth_message=”Answer hidden, please login or purchase a membership to view.”] If there is a daily or weekly task that falls into a questionable category, discuss it. Ask: “Why do we do this?” and “Are we getting the results we want from this?” If you or your coworkers answer with something like “I don’t know, this is just the way we have always done it,” then decide whether there is a better or more efficient way.
Many times things become rote in an organization, and everyone just becomes a creature of habit. But it does not have to stay that way. You have the benefit of an outside perspective and are looking at the office with fresh eyes. Change within organizations often brings with it the unknown, and the unknown can cause people to go into panic mode.
Take the time to identify what might need to be updated and discuss the changes with your team. Explain the “Why” behind the changes and get the employees buy-in. And Lastly, reassure your new employees that you’re looking to reduce the office stress and increase efficiency to benefit them.[/mepr-active]
To learn more about implementing change within your dental team and managing a dental practice, watch this training webinar and following course module! [wpcourse course=”5″ module=”5″ module_desc=”true” /]