Is it possible to inspire a team to perform consistently at a high level?

How does the team venture beyond merely “going through the motions”  just to make it through the day?

Is it possible to have PEAK performance without limit and burnout?

I say there is!

In fact, I’ve experienced high-level performance from hygiene teams who have more energy, are more peaceful, profitable and having more fun. And, it’s no secret. We simply take performance to the next level by designing a game plan grounded in the unique strengths of the team and in perfect harmony with the goals of the practice.

Sound simple?

It really is — especially when we come from a space of being open and with a commitment to excellence. One way I create that opening in working closely with hygienists is taking the time to explore seven distinct areas. What I have found is these areas can produce the greatest impact on performance in the hygiene department. I’ve outlined this into a step-by-step discovery process in creating transformation and breakthrough results that are sustainable.

Allow me to share a glimpse into these areas and what we can uncover:

1 – Satisfaction

This is where we begin because it’s all about getting to the heart of what being a hygienist means. And, looking for how we can nurture their very purpose behind being a caregiver. I liken the practice to a garden for a hygienist — because when we create the space to honor and cultivate this aspect, we shine a light on how this area of their career can be a source of personal growth and fulfillment in their life. YES! Your practice can be a huge source of meaning and fulfillment for your hygienist.

2 – Goal Setting

This is where magic happens because this is where we connect mindset with action. We can implement strategies all day long. However, without a shift in mindset to alter changes in behavior…there are no results. The focus on mindset takes us beyond making lists of goals. We develop a well-rehearsed action plan based on a new set of beliefs and a crystal clear vision that sets the wheels in motion.

3 – Co-diagnosing

Here is where the hygienist becomes the co-pilot alongside the dentist. I like to refer to co-diagnosing as co-partnering with the doctor — in serving the patient, facilitating the exams and setting the stage for case acceptance. There is one critical component necessary in making this a success and it is getting into communication about the doctor’s treatment philosophy. Initially, this may require a breakout session with the doctor in order to get clear about what that looks like and ensure the entire team is on the same page.

4 – Time Management

This is essential in creating a peaceful environment and honoring everyone’s time — team and patients. Therefore, we first design structure for each aspect of the patient appointment, making it organized and simplified — taking the hygienist out of overwhelm and in control of her schedule. We then implement cross-training systems which lead to an increased level of support and enhanced collaboration of the entire team.

5 – Services and Systems

By expanding the services menu and setting systems in place to integrate these we get to create extraordinary experiences and elevate the level of care — that goes beyond “just a cleaning”. It’s about creating value for patients by exceeding expectations and looking for opportunity to set the practice and team apart from the ordinary.

6 – Continuing Education

When equipped with the latest information on research, technology, products and services we become an invaluable and trusted resource to the patient. Patient’s look forward to coming in because their visits are a means of increasing dental IQ and empowering them as they head out to make choices about their health every day.

7 – Instruments and Equipment

This is where we strategically work smarter not harder. Having the right instruments and with enhanced clinical skills, we can save valuable time and increase the longevity of practice for the hygienist through ergonomics. Additionally, we look for ways to save the practice thousands over the lifetime of equipment through proper care and maintenance.

Leading the hygiene team to peak performance doesn’t have to be elusive. The truth is, it is already in all of us. By spending careful time in each of these areas you can inspire a renewed commitment to excellence that is grounded in what’s most important to the team and serving the patient.

I’d love to hear from you and how one or more of these areas has impacted the performance of your hygiene team. What area(s) does your team have mastery over? And, what area(s) could you explore on a deeper level with your team? I look forward to reading your stories and answering your questions.

If you would like support in any of these specific areas please feel free to email me: chris@hygienebydesign.com.

In closing, I’d like to leave you with one of my favorite quotes…

You cannot teach a man anything; you can only help him discover it in himself.  -Galileo Galilei