Tell Me More: A Leadership Standard, Not Just a Phrase
Early in my career, and still today, I’ve had the privilege of working alongside a dentist whose leadership continues to shape the way I lead. Whether I approach her with an idea, a concern, or a challenge in the practice, her response remains steady and consistent:
“Tell me more.”
At first, I didn’t grasp the full impact of those three words. Today, as a dental office manager, I see the value of people, systems, and solutions more than ever.
We are responsible for maintaining a productive schedule, providing support to the clinical team, and effectively navigating the daily challenges we face. Our aim is to ensure the practice runs smoothly, often in real time. It’s a role that requires quick thinking, clear communication, and constant decision-making.
Leading Beyond the Surface
In the day-to-day operations of a dental office, it’s easy to operate at a surface level. A scheduling issue arises—we fix it. A team member expresses frustration—we respond. A system breaks—we adjust.
But leadership requires us to go deeper.
When a team member brings a concern—whether it’s about the front desk flow, clinical handoffs, or a breakdown in communication—it can be tempting to jump straight into problem-solving. After all, efficiency matters.
However, responding with “tell me more” shifts the conversation.
It slows the moment down just enough to gather context. It uncovers details that may not have been initially shared. It allows us to understand not just the issue, but the “why” behind it.
And in many cases, the real solution lies beneath the surface.
Building a Culture of Trust and Accountability
Dental teams thrive when there is trust, clarity, and mutual respect. As office managers, we set the tone for that culture.
When team members feel heard, they are more likely to speak up. When they are invited to share more, they think more critically. When they are part of the conversation, they take ownership of solutions.
“Tell me more” communicates that their voice matters.
It removes the fear of being dismissed. It replaces assumption with curiosity. It transforms conversations into collaboration.
This doesn’t mean we avoid accountability—it strengthens it. When we fully understand a situation, we are better equipped to coach, guide, and support our team effectively.
Strengthening Team Communication
Miscommunication is one of the most common challenges in a dental office. Whether between front office and clinical team members or within the same department, small misunderstandings can quickly impact workflow, patient experience, and morale.
Using “tell me more” creates clarity.
For example:
- When a hygienist feels the schedule is unrealistic
- When a treatment coordinator is struggling with case acceptance
- When the front desk feels overwhelmed with patient flow
Instead of reacting or offering an immediate fix, asking for more insight allows the team member to fully express the challenge.
Often, what initially sounds like a scheduling issue may actually be a communication gap, a training opportunity, or a systems breakdown.
Coaching Instead of Controlling
As leaders, it’s easy to fall into the habit of directing rather than developing.
But great office managers don’t just solve problems—they grow people.
“Tell me more” is a coaching tool.
It encourages team members to process their thoughts. It helps them identify patterns and potential solutions. It builds confidence in their ability to think critically. Instead of creating dependency on leadership for every answer, it empowers the team to become more self-sufficient and solution-oriented.
Over time, this creates a stronger, more resilient practice.
Slowing Down to Lead Effectively
The pace of dentistry can make intentional leadership feel like a luxury. There are patients to seat, phones to answer, and production goals to meet.
But taking a moment to ask “tell me more” is not a delay—it’s an investment.
It prevents repeated issues. It improves communication across the team. It leads to more thoughtful, lasting solutions.
Most importantly, it strengthens relationships within the practice.
A Leadership Habit That Lasts
Years later, I still carry this phrase with me in team meetings, in one-on-one conversations, and in moments of challenge and growth. Because at its core, leadership in a dental practice is not just about managing operations—it’s about developing people.
And sometimes, the most powerful way to do that isn’t by having all the answers, but by asking the right questions.
The Takeaway
As dental office managers, we are constantly balancing efficiency with empathy, productivity with people.
The next time a team member brings you a concern, an idea, or even frustration—pause before responding.
- Choose curiosity over assumption
- Choose understanding over urgency
- Choose leadership over reaction
And simply say:
“Tell me more.”
Because over time, I’ve learned this is more than a phrase; it’s a standard for how we lead. In those conversations, you may discover not just solutions but also opportunities for growth in your team, your leadership, and your practice.
About the Author
Heather George, FAADOM
Heather is a dental office manager with 17 years of clinical experience and 11 years in practice management.
A Certified Dental Assistant (CDA) and Fellow of the American Association of Dental Office Management (AADOM), she is passionate about serving others through leadership, building strong teams, and creating meaningful patient experiences. She is currently pursuing her AADOM Mastership and is committed to growing with purpose and integrity.
