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Building a happy team

Building a team that is happy at work leads to happy patients and better patient care. Here are six things you can do to improve workplace satisfaction at your practice.

1. Invest time and energy into onboarding

When you hire someone new, it’s usually because you were short-staffed, so getting them up to speed quickly is often the primary goal. But taking a more mindful approach to onboarding is more likely to lead to long-term success and job satisfaction.

2. Invest in convenience

Investing in making life easier for your team is money well spent. From upgraded practice management software to time-saving equipment, better Wi-Fi and more, technology has the power to make your team’s work life easier.

3. Recognize a job well done

Make a habit of recognizing successes and extra effort as they happen, along with implementing a more formal system of employee recognition and awards. Try to include both individual accolades, like Employee of the Month, and team awards. For example, a reward for hitting a practice-wide production target.

4. Gather feedback

Along with telling your team everything they’re doing well, take the time to ask your employees what changes you could make to help them do even better. Be sure to listen closely to all team members’ suggestions and keep an open mind.

5. Have fun

Having fun can help your team members bond and build camaraderie. The closer your team feels, the more they will help each other succeed.

6. Effective communication

Be sure that every staff member:

  • Has ready and easy access to all the same work-related information and updates
  • Has a means of contacting you privately
  • Feels welcome and encouraged to bring up any questions or concerns

Effective communication isn’t only about getting the message across but also about how and when you do it. Be mindful of your approach to sharing news and the timing of announcing workplace changes that will impact your team.