Celebrating Those Who Make Us Stronger: A Tribute to Administrative Professionals
On the eve of Administrative Professionals Day, someone gave me a nudge to discuss how and why we honor this day. All kinds of thoughts and ideas came into my head about those who have shaped, challenged, made me stronger, and brought me a smile every day.
As I took time that night to reflect on all of the people who have come into my life since being in the dental industry, I am truly amazed when I think of how the doctors, patients, employees, and our families can have such an impact on each of us. Each group has played an essential part in making me who I am today in the dental world.
So, as we celebrate the day with cupcakes and a “thank you” from those around us, let’s make sure that we, as office managers and leaders, take the time to thank those who surround us with their appreciation, and let’s make sure that we put as much love and energy into them as they do for us!
Recognizing Our Doctors
The doctors are our mentors, leaders, and sounding boards for most of us. We rely on them to help us make good, sound decisions. We need doctors to help us create the environment our employees seek. Employees will look at the doctors first and foremost to see what examples they’re setting and will likely follow suit.
As office managers, we must realize we have very smart, capable people helping us run their businesses. With all the stress that doctors face these days, such as the rise in overhead costs, employee turnover, and multiple other life stressors, we can help ease the pressure and stress of business by simply thanking them.
Thank them for giving you a beautiful, safe office to work in and allowing us as office managers to play such a pivotal role in their business.
Invest in Your Employees
Our employees are our foundation and are so very important.
I have commented, “When we treat our employees right, everything else will fall into place.” That means our patients are treated top-notch because our employees are treated as top-notch!
Some employees have been with us for over 25 years, and those who have been with us for just over a year, yet no matter what amount of time they have given us, they all contribute every day towards making sure that our patients are taken care of and that they are taking care of each other. Those employees are the same ones who can bring a much-needed smile to those of us as we’re making an unpopular decision or having a tough day.
Our employees can make the office manager’s job incredibly rewarding when you watch them grow with the team. Take the time to invest in your employees; make sure that you show them that you want to get to know them personally and that you care as much about their home life as you do their work life.
When you ask your staff, “How are you today?” make sure that you’re looking at them and show them with your body language that you want to know the answer. Take the time to care about them not just on a professional level but also on a personal level.
Your work family is with you most days; make the time with them memorable.
Our Patients
Patients want to feel as comfortable in your office as they do in their homes. They want to be heard. They want to know that we are doing what’s right for them and being fair. Every patient deserves a thank you from us.
Can you remember when the office was closed, but the staff was still present? Maybe you had a half day, and then some working time was scheduled.
Do you remember how quiet it was?
Our patients can light up the room with their stories and smiles. It’s their chatter that keeps the office alive and full of laughter.
Let’s make sure that we thank all those patients who come to see us and let them know that their stories, their time away from work or families, and their commitment to us make our jobs much more meaningful.
Your Tribe
My compass will always point back to my family when I think of what drives me.
I knew long ago that I wanted my husband and children to see me as a good example. I wanted them to see that there are rewards if you work hard and are passionate about your job. I wanted them to be proud of me, what I stood for, and how I approached my job daily. Our families can be our motivators for a better living.
Our family can be the reason that we obtain continuing education and keep perfecting our craft, or they can be the reason that we get up every day and go to work, even on the days it may be hard to get out of bed.
Lean on your family for their support and their love. Take that support and love back to the office daily and build on it with your staff, doctors, patients, and community.
We could all use small reminders to make sure we’re taking the time to say thank you or smile to those around us each day. Showing appreciation is very easy, yet it is sometimes overlooked as we all get so busy in our daily lives.
Take a deep breath, slow down, and make sure that we as leaders are setting a good example of one who is thankful to be in this field and appreciates the opportunity we are given.
About the Author
Michelle Hatch, CDA, MAADOM
Michelle Hacht is an office manager with a personal mission statement: Be a better version of yourself every day you’re allowed.
Two of her most satisfying achievements include creating leaders out of team members who never asked for the title and creating an atmosphere of open communication and radical candor. Michelle’s professional and personal mission is to leave everyone in a better position than when she arrived.
Michelle is a lifetime member of AADOM and currently holds an AADOM Mastership, which she received in 2024.
