Embracing The Change
In 2002, as a green dental assistant with only three years of experience, I got the exciting opportunity to become an office manager. The office manager was moving, and our dentists decided I was the best fit. While excited about the change, I had no idea what that entailed.
Transitioning from dental assistant to practice administrator has been challenging and exciting. There are a few potential pitfalls to manage along with the new responsibilities and benefits. Navigating personal relationships with colleagues is one area I would have appreciated someone giving me advice. Moving from a clinical position to a leadership role presented some challenges. That’s why I’m here to share three pieces of advice I wish I had received to maneuver this transition gracefully and professionally.
Maintaining Friendships
One of the biggest challenges will be maintaining the friendships you developed with your colleagues. While it is important to maintain these relationships, it is equally important to establish boundaries and make it clear your role has changed.
Attending happy hour with your coworkers after work used to be appropriate, but you might notice that you are no longer invited. Don’t take it personally! It’s natural for colleagues to feel some resentment, envy, awkwardness, or separation. It’s essential to understand this is not personal but rather a product of the new power dynamic. They are adjusting to your new role, as well! This change can also be a good thing, so you won’t be tempted to partake in office gossip.
You want to maintain these friendships, so you should be honest and open with your colleagues about the change in your role and set expectations for how you will interact going forward. Make sure they know your new role means you might need to have hard conversations with them and act as the communicator and executor of the dentist’s expectations. A good rule of thumb is not to have conversations with an employee you would not have in front of a dentist. Remember: conversations have consequences. This transition will require an adjustment period, so be patient with yourself and your team, and continue to communicate to the best of your ability.
Educate Yourself on Business Aspects
As a practice administrator, you will be expected to have a comprehensive understanding of the business aspects of the practice. To prepare yourself for this role, it’s important to take steps to educate yourself beyond your current job responsibilities. Consider taking outside leadership courses or attending seminars to improve your understanding of dental office management, insurance billing, financial strategies, or other relevant topics. Don’t be afraid to ask your dentists to send you to these courses. They will invest in your education because they want their practice to succeed. You can also listen to podcasts or read industry publications to stay informed of the latest trends and developments. Some of my favorite podcasts are Dare to Lead by Brene Brown, AADOM Radio, and Beyond Bitewings. Networking with other professionals in your field can provide valuable insight and perspectives. Joining ADDOM offered support as a manager by giving me a place to vent my frustrations in my new role and providing me with resources that I could use daily. For example, If my insurance coordinator gets stumped by a claim denial, I can contact my local chapter friends for suggestions. By investing in your business knowledge and skill set, you will be better equipped to make informed decisions and lead your team to success.
Embrace the Change
Finally, embracing the change that comes with being a practice administrator is essential. You have worked hard to get here and should be proud of your accomplishments! You’ve been recognized for your hard work; now it’s time to run with it! This new role will bring new challenges, responsibilities, and opportunities. Embrace the change, be willing to learn, and seek opportunities to grow and develop as a leader. Remember, the skills that got you here may not be the same skills you need to succeed in your new role. Be open to feedback, seek mentorship, and invest in personal and professional development. Most of all, give yourself grace while you learn and grow into your managerial position! It’s not about perfection; it’s about effort and growth to be the best manager you can be.
About the Author
Lisa Maurer is a practice administrator at Walnut Creek DentistsThis link opens a new tab to the Walnut Creek Dentists website, with 24 years in the industry. She’s passionate about dentistry and transforming practices into profitable businesses with a healthy culture. Lisa earned her FAADOM in 2020. She and her son live in the Bay Area, where she takes pride in contributing to the local dental community.
