“The achievements of an organization are the results of the combined efforts of each individual. Individual commitment to a group effort — that is what makes a team work, a company work, a society work, a civilization work.”

        ~Vince Lombardi

As a Lakers fan I couldn’t resist the opportunity to insert a pic of one of their routines in preparation for a game…huddle. I love seeing a team (especially my fav) having their pre-game moment — hands clasped, arms wrapped around each other and locked in a bond that enrolls the fans and inspires the team to bring it — who doesn’t love that?!?

While it may seem odd to imagine a dental office team physically engaged in their huddle in the same way a basketball team would, the spirit and essence of TEAM is no different. When we spiritually embrace our co-workers (or employees) as fellow TEAM members we shift the dynamics and mindset of the entire practice. The mindset of TEAM is focused on unity and partnership and where internal communication is strengthened. Carrying out a morning huddle coming from that space is what establishes clarity of purpose and becomes the foundation for meaningful work that is for the greater good of all involved — team and patients.

I am still puzzled when I hear of practices not engaged in morning huddles but not at all surprised when I see the dismal results. There is an undeniable pattern I have seen between the effectiveness of morning huddles and the flow of the practice, engagement and leadership of team members and productivity. If you are not currently engaged in morning huddles and you’re ready for some game-changing transformation then I insist you commit to making these a number one priority. This is one area you can transform TODAY and I promise, your return is priceless. So, let’s create a framework for you to get started…

Time

Keep it brief, concise and on point at all times. This is not a gossip or gripe session. This is strictly business with a 10-minute agenda for covering all the critical components in setting the tone for a winning day.

Posture

Everyone needs to be standing — this is a readiness posture, keeping everyone engaged and connected. I recommend everyone has a schedule, their charts, or computer screen front and center in order to follow the daily review.

Tone

I recommend the doctor begin the huddle with a quote, maybe reading the vision or mission of the practice, sharing something inspirational, championing or acknowledging the team. This establishes leadership and sets the tone for a inspired, winning team.

Clearing

Everyone gets 30- to 60-seconds to do what I call a “brain drain” exercise — stick to 60-seconds and if someone doesn’t have anything to share they can take a pass to keep the pace. This allows each team member to release any stress or impending event that has them preoccupied in the moment. An example may be a team member had a sick child the previous night, didn’t get quality sleep, was rushed in the morning and stressed finding daycare. Sharing allows her a chance to bring it up, let it go and enroll others in offering some compassion or any support that may be needed throughout the day.  This is a great practice to clear the air and create space for everyone to be fully present during the huddle.

Daily Review

I recommend this be led by the office manager or scheduling coordinator. This allows for control of the flow of the huddle and keeps the team on track.

Areas to cover:

– any special notes, needs or requests for specific patients

– pending/outstanding treatment

– added services to the schedule (ie: radiographs, whitening impressions, etc.)

– openings to create opportunity for patients to complete treatment

– productivity goals — the current status and opportunities to meet benchmarks

I encourage everyone to participate — contribution, creativity, teamwork — all with an emphasis on making the day work for everyone.

The practice of a morning huddle is a commitment to excellence, a commitment to building a winning team and a commitment to an environment that is a platform for your team to make a difference for their fellow team members and your patients. Vince Lombardi is arguably the greatest football coach of all time. He embodied leadership and possessed a true gift to inspire greatness in others. He referred to it as “heart power”. I believe it is “heart power” that is the game changer and is the essence of creating a successful daily practice of morning huddle with your team.

I’d love to hear from you. How are you carrying out your morning huddles? What have you found to work best for you and your team? I invite you to share your experience with morning huddles here with our community. And, I also welcome any questions you may have or support you may need in this area.

Thank you for reading and for your contribution and I look forward to hearing from you.

Team Hugs,