6 Proven Ways to Show Your Dental Office Manager They Are Appreciated

 

Office managers are the heartbeat of every dental practice. They’re the unsung heroes who manage a whirlwind of tasks, from handling insurance claims to leading teams and ensuring top-notch patient care.

In a recent survey, we asked AADOM members what makes them feel affirmed and appreciated in their role as dental office managers, and their responses were both insightful and consistent.

We were thrilled to hear that 90% of AADOM office managers “like” or “love” their jobs!

We also heard six common themes in their answers. By implementing these actionable tips, you will show your support as well as invest in the health and success of your practice.

1. “Understand how much I do.”

Your office manager wears many hats, from running the business to helping patients to stepping in for clinical staff when needed. Members tell us their responsibilities include:

• Managing the Team (75%)
• Hiring & Firing (75%)
• Paying Bills (75%)
• Collecting Payments (67%)
• Team Reviews (66%)
• Payroll (65%)
• Insurance (64%)
• Scheduling (63%)
• Answering Phones (61%)
• Errands for Dentists (56%)
• Order Supplies (52%)
• Treatment Presentation (50%)
• OSHA/HIPAA (45%)
• Clinical Support (30%)
• Cleaning (25%)

Action Item: Many managers appreciate having regular check-ins with their dentist to discuss their workload, achievements, and any obstacles they face. Recognize the broad scope of their contributions and the time that it takes to do their job well.

2. “Listen to my suggestions.”

Your office manager is invested in the success of your practice. You can show that you trust and value their expertise and wisdom by implementing their suggestions when possible. Foster an environment where your office manager feels comfortable sharing their ideas and feedback.

Action Item: Before making significant decisions, seek feedback from your office manager for their perspective, especially on matters directly affecting operations.

3. “Back me up to the team.”

Your manager strives to implement systems that will strengthen and grow the practice. When you reinforce their efforts with the team and adhere to the established systems, it helps to build a unified front. This boosts their confidence and reinforces their leadership within the practice.

Action Item: When a team member comes to you with something that conflicts with the established systems, pause and thank them for their feedback. Then, discuss the best next steps with your office manager.

4. “Invest in professional development.”

Today, a trained office manager is a must for a thriving dental practice. Investing in their skills and knowledge benefits your practice and conveys your commitment to their personal growth.

As a professional association dedicated to helping dental managers reach their potential, AADOM provides training and resources for every experience level. AADOM membership is the best deal in the industry at less than $17 a month! (70% of our members tell us their practice pays for their membership.) They can also start with a complimentary “test drive.”

Sign your manager up with an AADOM membership! Encourage them to continue learning and growing through online webinars, local study clubs, pursuing their AADOM professional distinction, and industry conferences.

5. “Compensate me for my contribution.”

Although most office managers tell us they are happy in their position, survey results show that only 52% feel they are fairly compensated for their work and effort. A fair and generous compensation package is a tangible way to show that you value their contributions.

Action Item: Review your manager’s job description to ensure you fully understand their role and contributions. Conduct regular salary reviews and consider offering additional perks to ensure their compensation package is commensurate with their efforts.

Other compensation ideas shared in the survey include:

• Health insurance
• Retirement plan
• Dental discount for the family
• Life insurance
• Paid time off
• Education reimbursement
• Leadership training
• Bonus and incentive plan
• AADOM Conference
• Milestone gifts (5, 10, 15 years)
• Gym membership
• Gas reimbursement
• Cell phone allowance
• Uniform reimbursement
• Profit sharing
• Annual team outings
• Paid time off for volunteering

6. “Tell me that what I do matters.”

Sometimes, the simplest gestures make the most significant impact. Our survey responses reinforced this sentiment. Small acts of appreciation, such as a kind word or acknowledging their successes, brighten their day and reinforce their importance to the team.

Action Item: OMAM is the perfect time to surprise them with a little something extra:

• Write a personalized thank you card
• Take them out for lunch in their honor
• Recognize them with an OMAM shout-out during your team meeting
• Visit the AADOM Marketplace for OMAM gift ideas and AADOM swag
• Give them a gift card to their favorite store or a spa treatment

Make OMAM Memorable for Your Dental Management Superstar!

This Office Management Appreciation Month, show your office manager how much they mean to you and your team. By understanding what motivates them and makes them feel appreciated, you can make this month truly special for them and invest in the growth and success of your practice.

OMAM Resources

• Visit the official OMAM website, sponsored by AADOM and CareCredit, for campaign tools and resources.
• Check out the AADOM Marketplace for fun gift ideas.
• Plus, sign up for an AADOM Membership during the month of September 2024 for a chance to win FREE registration to the 2025 AADOM Conference for both the office manager and the dentist!

 

[DOWNLOAD] 6 Proven Ways to Show Your Dental Office Manager They Are Appreciated – AADOM