Bonds Stronger Than Composite: Nurturing Your Relationship with Your Dentist Boss
Stepping into the shoes of a practice manager means entering a world where your relationship with the dentist isn’t just part of the job—it’s the heartbeat of your daily work life.
Picture this: You’re the confidant, the strategist, and sometimes, the bridge between the boss’s vision and the practice’s reality. Yes, it’s about schedules, budgets, and marketing, but at the core, it’s really about how well you and your dentist boss get along, understand each other, and work together towards common goals.
Forget the adage of ‘keeping the boss happy’; this is about building a partnership where respect, communication, and mutual goals are front and center.
How do you craft this crucial relationship to not just survive but thrive? That’s exactly what we’re here to explore.
Master the Art of Listening
Understanding your dentist goes beyond their words. Stress and busy schedules can make it hard for them to express their needs clearly. Tune into what they say and how they say it—those offhand comments about the budget or new equipment could be subtle pleas for help or reassurance.
By reading between the lines and addressing the unsaid, you strengthen your bond and ensure minor miscommunications don’t escalate.
Numbers Are Your New BFFs
Diving into the practice’s financials and patient statistics isn’t just about numbers—it’s about showing your boss that you’re deeply invested in the practice’s health and success. When you speak confidently about these aspects, you’re essentially speaking their language, fostering a deeper connection and understanding between you two.
Be the Early Bird (But with News, Not Worms)
Proactive communication is critical. Keep your boss updated on both the wins and the looming challenges.
This approach not only prevents problems from growing but also demonstrates your commitment to the practice’s well-being and your boss’s peace of mind. You become an indispensable ally by being the bearer of solutions, not just problems.
Mutual Respect: It’s a Thing
The bedrock of your relationship with the dentist owner is respect.
Remember, you’re both driving towards the same goal: the prosperity of the practice and the health of your patients. Maintaining a respectful stance, especially in disagreements, highlights your mutual dedication to the practice’s success.
This shared commitment transforms potential conflicts into opportunities for collaboration and growth.
Don’t Be Scared to Shake Things Up
Innovation and improvement suggestions show your initiative and foresight.
However, it’s not just about what ideas you bring but how and when you present them. Timing is everything, and a well-thought-out proposal, shared at the right moment, can significantly enhance your working relationship with your boss by demonstrating your strategic thinking and commitment to the practice’s future.
Picking Your Battles
Knowing when to push forward and when to step back is crucial. Not every disagreement needs to be a battle. Sometimes, strategic concessions on the more minor issues pave the way for gaining support on the larger ones you’re passionate about. This balance shows your boss you’re wise, thoughtful, and focused on the big picture.
Being a practice manager is not for the faint of heart, but at its core, your role is about fostering a robust and productive relationship with your dentist boss. Through strategic communication, mutual respect, and a shared vision, you can navigate any challenge that comes your way.
Here’s to building a thriving practice together, where both the team and the patients feel the positive impact of your harmonious partnership.
About the Author
Gabriela Solano, DAADOM
Gaby Solano, originally from Mexico, has significantly impacted the dental healthcare sector alongside her husband, Dr. Guerra. In 2021, they embarked on a journey to open a startup clinic, a venture that quickly grew to over 1800 active patients in less than three years, illustrating their dedication and patient-first approach.
Gaby’s leadership and commitment to creating an inclusive, welcoming atmosphere were recognized when she was honored with the “2024 Startup of the Year” award by the US Small Business Administration (SBA) in Sacramento, CA.
She has completed all AADOM Distinciton levels: FAADOM, MAADOM, and DAADOM.
Her guiding philosophy is to foster an environment where patients feel valued, seen, and genuinely cared for, setting aside traditional production goals in favor of prioritizing patient welfare.
