What really makes or breaks a well-functioning team? Buzzing with insights and real-world advice, we lay bare an indispensable component of business success – Regular one-on-one meetings. Dive into this episode with Sandy and Michael as they unfold the multiple layers of importance these interactions hold. From honing effective communication, fostering deeper relationships, to inciting recognition and personal growth among employees, the effectiveness of these conversations shapes the dynamics of your business.
We delve into the significance of timely issue resolution, personalized training initiatives, and making room for these indispensable meetings. Discover how the simple act of note-taking and regular, thoughtful interactions, pave the way for a more harmonic and productive work environment. You’ll want to take notes as we dissect the critical role one-on-one sessions play in cultivating a positive practice culture and perpetuating employee satisfaction.
What You'll Learn in This Episode:
Be sure to tune into this eye-opening episode to equip yourself with the indispensable tool that a successful business runs on. Remember, one-on-one meetings could be the missing piece in your business' success story!
Sponsors:
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Ever questioned how to ace the management of in-house membership plans? This episode delves deeper into this vast topic with Janelle and Bari from Plan Forward, who walk us through tackling challenges and implementing successful solutions. They recount the journey of Plan Forward, a concept born out of the desire to improve customer service and streamline management of membership plans. The conversation embodies an in-depth analysis of the importance of tailoring plans for various practices, ultimately aiding in patient retention and practice growth.
Janelle and Bari underline the vitality of personalized communication with patients, translating into increased customer service satisfaction rates. They additionally stress the significance of understanding practice demographics, which is instrumental for devising effective plans. The discussions reflect their innovative solutions and substantial industry knowledge, ensuring practitioners can manage in-house membership plans effortlessly and efficiently.
What You'll Learn in This Episode:
Plug in your headphones and join us on this informative journey through membership plan management!
Sponsors:
Don’t just look ahead. Plan Forward. Discover the dental membership plan partner that empowers your entire office. Created by a team in your shoes. Find out more here, and be sure to mention Dental Drill Bits for a special offer! https://www.planforward.io/
Are we becoming slaves to our screens even at the workplace? In this engaging episode, Michael and Sandy delve into the impact of screen time at the workplace, particularly assessing the effect of devices like Apple watches, Fitbits, and cell phones. Taking a hard look at the addictive demands of these technologies, they explore how their constant use can compromise individual productivity and professional etiquette.
They zoom into the healthcare field, using dental practices as a case study. Here, Sandy exposes the reality of enforcing phone policies in an environment where personal rights, patient care, and legal considerations such as HIPAA compliance dance a precarious dance. As they shed light on instances of phone misuse, a critical need for clear and enforceable guidelines comes to light. The episode serves up insights on striking the right balance, creating an environment where technology empowers workers without becoming a distraction or liability.
What You'll Learn in This Episode:
Don't miss out on this insightful discussion! Hit the play button and learn how to control technology, not letting it control you or your team!
Sponsors:
Elevate Patient Care with Automation: Are you looking for dental software that puts your patients first? From online scheduling to online forms, patient communication, and office coordination – Yapi simplifies every step of the patient experience. Find out more here, and be sure to mention Dental Drill Bits for a special offer! https://yapiapp.com/
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Have you ever wondered how to properly compensate your team, especially during training sessions and lunch meetings? This enlightening episode explores just that. Michael and Sandy navigate the often-overlooked aspects of employee payment, emphasizing the importance of understanding labor regulations and treating staff equitably. Learn from the friendly banter as they share personal insights – both from an employer's perspective and from a viewpoint of ethical responsibility.
Discover how setting clear terms during hiring can result in beneficial outcomes for both parties involved. The duo also brings to light situations where employers are obliged to cover training expenses and underlines the necessity for transparent communication surrounding matters of monetary compensation for additional training.
What You'll Learn in This Episode:
Don't miss this must-listen episode that unravels the nuances of staff compensation and inspires with valuable insights and real-world examples.
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Is your dental practice is not showing up in search results the way you want? This episode of Dental Drill Bits dives deep into the world of Search Engine Optimization (SEO) and its impact on your practice's online visibility. In conversation with our expert guest, Ali from Docsites, we address the importance of local SEO and elucidate how optimizing your web presence can organically elevate your position on search engine results pages.
Ali covers common misconceptions about SEO and illuminates the potency of a coherent content strategy, mobile optimization, and the effective use of keywords in reeling in prospective patients. We shed light on common pitfalls to look out for, as well as the importance of persevering in your SEO initiatives. Above all, we warn against the fixation on rankings - reminding listeners that it's the consistent quality of your SEO work, not quick fixes or hacks, that truly matters in the long run.
What You'll Learn in This Episode:
Ready to elevate your dental practice? Tune into this episode of Dental Drill Bits for a comprehensive dive into SEO that could transform your online presence.
Sponsors:
Do you need a new website or marketing agency? Check out what Docsites can do for you: https://www.docsites.com/landing-pages/ddb/
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How can you take control over your schedule and make sure it's not running YOU? This episode peels back the layers to reveal the make-or-break role a scheduler plays in any thriving dental practice. Sandy passionately articulates how setting precise production goals and having a clear understanding of individual procedure timings can make all the difference. Michael and Sandy navigate the conversation to highlight the immense value of seamless team communication and overall organization in keeping a well-maintained, high-functioning schedule. Their shared experiences unfold in a treasure trove of tips and tricks to evade common scheduling pitfalls – inaccurate procedure timings or the blow of missed appointments. By the time this episode ends, you will find yourself contemplating your existing scheduling processes and getting excited about the prospect of changes that could revolutionize your dental practice.
What You'll Learn in This Episode:
Don't let your practice run out of time! Tune in to this episode to learn how to take control of your schedule and rise to new levels of productivity and patient satisfaction.
Sponsors:
For modern dental practices, membership plans are the way forward — but not just any plan will do. Look ahead with the platform that puts you in control, effortlessly. Mention Dental Drill Bits for 60 days FREE! https://www.planforward.io/
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Are you crumbling under constant patient cancellations and under-utilized hygienists? If so, this episode is a must-listen. Michael and Sandy go into deep dialogue discussing the art of managing the oh-so precious time of hygienists during those inevitable patient drop-offs. The duo shares their insights on the crucial role of effective communication within a dental practice, with an emphasis on the mighty bearings of the front office in ensuring a bustling schedule, despite the rollercoaster of patient availability.
In this enlightening conversation, Sandy underscores the cardinal importance of forging clear-cut agreements with the hygienists about their pay during the slack periods. They dive into the labyrinth of scheduling and patient management, providing actionable steps towards mastering these often-overlooked aspects of running a dental practice. Most importantly, this episode serves as a poignant call to arms, urging dental practices to give employee well-being the attention and respect it deserves. They conclude by stressing the urgency of a proactive approach in dentistry, a surefire way to trim down on missed opportunities and turbocharge your practice's efficiency.
What You'll Learn in This Episode:
Don’t miss out on this power-packed episode if you wish to skyrocket your practice's efficiency and maximize your hygienist's time!
Mentions and Links:
Front Desk Pro Seminar April 19th, 2024
The 3 R's for Practice Management Part 2: Recall
Are the new patient numbers in your dental practice declining? Dive into this episode, where Michael and Sandy tackle this pressing issue, shedding light on the alarming trend that many dental practitioners face of dwindling new patient numbers. Sandy brings her expertise to the table, sharing startling real-world experiences of dentists and team members who have faced and overcome the same issue. She implores dental practitioners to delve deep to unearth the root cause of the decline.
Sandy also unveils the significance of front office operations in creating a first lasting impression on your patients. She explains how accommodating requests and building healthy relationships with patients not only retains them but also encourages them to refer others.
What You'll Learn in This Episode:
Don’t miss this golden chance to get those patient numbers up, starting today!
Sponsors:
For modern dental practices, membership plans are the way forward — but not just any plan will do. Look ahead with the platform that puts you in control, effortlessly. Mention Dental Drill Bits for 60 days FREE! https://www.planforward.io/
Mentions and Links:
Sponsors:
Do you need a new website or marketing agency with no long-term contracts? Visit DocSites' website here and be sure to mention this podcast episode for a special deal! https://www.docsites.com/landing-pages/ddb/ (Docsites is offering $750 off their plans until the end of February, 2024, so be sure to jump on this amazing offer for our listeners!)
How does an inviting and up-to-date website impact your dental practice? In this episode of Dental Drill Bits, our website wizard, Ali, joins hosts Sandy and Michael to unravel the power of a well-managed website and how it can boost a dental practice's profile. Taking you through the elements of an effective website, they share nuggets of wisdom about the significance of timely updates, patient testimonials, and professional imagery, focusing on how these components create credibility and set your dental practice apart in today's competitive landscape.
In their lively discussion, the trio point out how internal marketing, through a properly curated website, can revolutionize your practice, debunking the common misconceptions surrounding patient acquisition. They dig deep into how showcasing your team's expertise, using before-and-after images, and integrating positive patient feedback can truly enhance your online presence. Moreover, throughout the episode, they provide practical tips to optimize and breathe life into your practice's website, underlining the importance of regular checks and professional assessments.
What You'll Learn in This Episode:
Jumpstart your website and thereby, your dental practice by tuning into this insightful episode!
Sponsors:
For modern dental practices, membership plans are the way forward — but not just any plan will do. Look ahead with the platform that puts you in control, effortlessly. Mention Dental Drill Bits for 60 days FREE! https://www.planforward.io/
Are you curious about how to elevate patient care and streamline processes in your dental practice? Wondering if appointing a treatment coordinator could make a remarkable difference? This episode provide insights and practical advice on the exact topic. In this engaging conversation, Sandy and Michael delve into the roles and benefits of having a dedicated treatment coordinator in a dental practice. Drawing from her personal experience with a treatment coordinator, Sandy emphasizes the critical role of patient education and effective communication in driving treatment acceptance.
In our discussion, they explore the responsibilities of a treatment coordinator and how this role can significantly contribute to your overall success. They discuss the importance of having not only a clear understanding of treatment options and financial aspects but also effective appointment coordination skills and a flair for communication. Sandy talks about the essential qualities an efficient treatment coordinator should possess and provides advice for practice owners contemplating implementing this role. To wrap up the episode, we remind everyone to focus on patient education, maintaining open channels of communication, and providing exceptional care right from the get-go.
What You'll Learn in This Episode:
So tune into this insightful episode and learn how to transform your practice through effective patient coordination!
Sponsors:
Are you looking for dental software that puts your patients first? From online scheduling to online forms, patient communication, and office coordination – Yapi simplifies every step of the patient experience. Find out more here, and be sure to mention Dental Drill Bits for a special offer! https://yapiapp.com/
Still wondering what makes a great front desk team at your dental practice? We're back this week to delve into the multifaceted world of front desk duties, shedding light on tasks that keep your favorite dental practice buzzing with organized, professional energy. We highlight how this vital team scales their workload according to patient inflow, adapting to increased pressures, and strategically splitting tasks among themselves to ensure that no detail, however minute, is overlooked.
In a world increasingly digitized, we're making a compelling argument about the unmatched importance of a human presence at the front desk, weaving in discussions about financial targets, appointment scheduling, and making the most out of open time slots. Amidst the varied roles a front desk team undertakes, we stress the paramount importance of organizational tools like procedure manuals, detailed inventories for each department, and individual statistics that help hold the team accountable and on track.
What You'll Learn in This Episode:
Ready to unlock the mystery of what happens behind the dental front desk? Listen in to learn the ins and outs of keeping your schedule full!
Sponsors:
Are you looking for dental software that puts your patients first? From online scheduling to online forms, patient communication, and office coordination – Yapi simplifies every step of the patient experience. Find out more here, and be sure to mention Dental Drill Bits for a special offer! https://yapiapp.com/
Why is the front desk team so crucial to the life and health of a dental practice? How can you create a driven and dedicated team to keep the wheels of your practice rolling smoothly? Buckle up, because this episode lays out the vital behind-the-scenes work that every front office team should be performing.
We unravel how a well-coordinated front desk team extends the life of a dental practice, offering invaluable patient services that soar far beyond the confines of the office. From appointment scheduling to recalling patients, Sandy provides insight into the practices of an efficient team and the common pitfalls to avoid. Discover why front desk-less offices fall short of expectations and how personalized communication wins every time. The importance of a well-organized schedule and its direct correlation with practice income is also covered.
What You'll Learn in This Episode:
Put your practice on the path to success. Don’t miss a beat of this enlightening part one!
Are you ready to skyrocket your front office team? Register for the next Front Desk Pro with Sandy here! https://classicpractice.com/front-desk-pro/
Do you have patients who refuse to take X-rays? Navigating through this sensitive space requires both empathy and skill. Michael and Sandy meticulously break down the different scenarios that dentists commonly encounter - the cost-conscious deniers, the comfort-focused decliners, and the radiation worriers. They share practical verbal techniques and strategies to engage with each category, effectively conveying the vital role X-rays play in maintaining overall dental health. As they discuss how consistent refusal despite proper communication and patient education might sometimes lead to "firing a patient," they place a spotlight on the importance of detailed note-keeping and educated refusal forms for documentation. Throughout the episode, Michael and Sandy pave the path to nurturing patient relationships through clear communication and deeper understanding.
What You'll Learn in This Episode:
Ready for a deep dive into patient communication? Hit play!
What to connect with like-minded dentists and learn more? Join Dental Gumbo here! https://www.facebook.com/groups/dentaldrillbits/members/
Sponsors:
For modern dental practices, membership plans are the way forward — but not just any plan will do. Look ahead with the platform that puts you in control, effortlessly. Mention Dental Drill Bits for 60 days FREE! https://www.planforward.io/
Wondering what truly underpins success as we start the new year? Join us as we delve into this topic, highlighting key aspects that contribute to not just financial growth, but personal fulfillment in dentistry. We challenge the notions of success, illuminating how it can vary individually. Some dentists might find satisfaction in smaller practices with lower overhead but meeting their financial goals — the two aren't necessarily mutually exclusive.
As we gear up for a fresh year, we're underscoring the significance of goal setting and strategic planning in the dental industry. Exploring key practice statistics—overhead costs, fees, and profit margins—and knowing what they represent is indispensable. Understanding these parameters not only gives you a clear picture of your current standing but also unveils areas requiring improvement.
What You'll Learn in This Episode:
Don't miss out on this enlightening episode — a path to understanding how to build a successful and satisfying dental practice this year!
Sponsors:
For modern dental practices, membership plans are the way forward — but not just any plan will do. Look ahead with the platform that puts you in control, effortlessly. Mention Dental Drill Bits for 60 days FREE! https://www.planforward.io/
Ever wanted to hear straight from an office manager what the benefits of a membership plan might hold? Today, Heather, an office manager with 14 years of experience in the medical realm, unravels her story covering the immense benefits of dental practice membership plans. She elaborates on how regulations and protocols in dentistry may seem complex but with innovative systems like Plan Forward, keeping tabs on membership plans has never been easier.
What You'll Learn in This Episode:
Are you ready to dig into the secrets of successful dental practice management with tips straight from an office manager? Tune into today!
Sponsors:
Do you need a new website or marketing agency with no long-term contracts? Visit DocSites' website here and be sure to mention this podcast episode for a special deal! https://www.docsites.com/landing-pages/ddb/
Wondering how to ease the burden and stress off yourself as the doctor? In this week's episode of Dental Drill Bits, Michael and Sandy are exploring the universe of responsibilities that come with the role of an office manager in a dynamic and demanding dental practice. They break down the essential duties that will keep your practice running smoothly without the added headache.
What You'll Learn in This Episode:
Tune in to this episode of Dental Drill Bits and boost your dental practice's effectiveness, efficiency, and overall success with an office manager!
Sponsors:
Do you need a new website or marketing agency with no long-term contracts? Visit DocSites' website here and be sure to mention this podcast episode for a special deal! https://www.docsites.com/landing-pages/ddb/
In this week's episode of Dental Drill Bits, Sandy and Michael delve headfirst into the crucial role of an office manager in your dental practice. Listen as they unlock the job description of a successful manager and explore how imperative it is for dentists to identify potential talent hidden within their teams while filling this impactful role. Sandy and Michael dissect the cardinal role of duplication skills in a manager's toolbox and how this skill can set apart a thriving practice from a struggling one.
What You'll Learn in This Episode:
Tune in to today's discussion and transform your dental practice with a brilliant office manager!
Sponsors:
For modern dental practices, membership plans are the way forward — but not just any plan will do. Look ahead with the platform that puts you in control, effortlessly. Mention Dental Drill Bits for 60 days FREE! https://www.planforward.io/
Join Sandy Pardue, Dr. James Burneson, and Michael Arias, in their conversation about the positive impact of membership plans on dental practices! Revealing the multifaceted benefits of adopting a membership plan like Plan Forward, Sandy and James dive deep into why this strategy not only attracts new patient numbers but also assures existing ones by enabling them to take control of their healthcare decisions and achieve cost-effective dental care. From the importance of presenting the plan effectively on the website, to the flexible customization potential of membership plans that cater to patient's individual needs, gain key insights from this innovative approach.
What You'll Learn in This Episode:
Tune into this episode to unlock a whole new level of patient satisfaction and practice productivity!
Sponsors:
Do you need a new website or marketing agency with no long-term contracts? Visit DocSites' website here and be sure to mention this podcast episode for a special deal! https://www.docsites.com/landing-pages/ddb/
Tune in to this value-packed episode of Dental Drill Bits as we dive into a topic that's on every employer's mind: the Christmas bonus. How necessary is it, really? And what if you've been doing it for years, but your current funds don't support it? Sandy has not only built a unique approach to the Christmas bonus dilemma but also knows how to leverage this typically seasonal reward to build a stronger, more motivated team year-round.
What You'll Learn in This Episode:
Implementing these strategic changes could change everything about how you approach employee rewards. So go ahead, hit play and let's redefine bonuses!
(This episode originally aired Dec 07, 2022)
Sponsors:
For modern dental practices, membership plans are the way forward — but not just any plan will do. Look ahead with the platform that puts you in control, effortlessly. Mention Dental Drill Bits for 60 days FREE! https://www.planforward.io/
Get ready for a deep dive into the world of dental recruitment this week on Dental Drill Bits! Today we are tackling the common but tricky issue of sourcing exceptional employees for your practice. From leveraging social media and content creation to utilizing the power of internal referrals - no stone is left unturned. We're also shedding light on the secrets of crafting a compelling job post guaranteed to attract quality candidates who are as committed to outstanding oral care as you are.
What You'll Learn in This Episode:
Tune in to get the low-down on finding and hiring top-tier dental talents, right here on Dental Drill Bits!
Join our free Facebook group, Dental Gumbo, to get in on the conversation! https://www.facebook.com/groups/dentaldrillbits/
Sponsors:
For modern dental practices, membership plans are the way forward — but not just any plan will do. Look ahead with the platform that puts you in control, effortlessly. Mention Dental Drill Bits for 60 days FREE! https://www.planforward.io/
In this week's episode of Dental Drill Bits, we're diving deeply into a dilemma most dental practices grapple with - "Should my hygienist clock out when they have free time?" An empty dental chair is definitely the stuff of nightmares for a dental practice. With a keen focus on this issue, we aim to provide a fresh perspective on handling unpredictable schedule gaps due to cancellations and no-shows. We also delve into the potential pitfalls of moving patient appointments and the unseen consequences it can have on your practice's reputation.
If you're looking to find out how to most efficiently use hygiene time in your practice, let's jump into today's episode!
What You'll Learn in This Episode:
Stay tuned for the next registration period for Front Desk Pro! https://classicpractice.com/front-desk-pro/
Sponsors:
Do you need a new website or marketing agency? Mention this podcast episode for Docsites' special Black Friday offer during the month of November, 2023! https://www.docsites.com/landing-pages/ddb/
Welcome back to Dental Drill Bits! This week, we're thrilled to have Ali from our sponsors, Docsites, back on the show. Ali dives deep into the three essential steps for successful online marketing campaigns tailored specifically for your dental practice. We tackle the challenges of getting discovered by potential patients, exploring strategies to increase visibility and attract more eyeballs to your practice. Discover how to build authority and brand recognition, ensuring that potential patients not only find you but are eager to choose your services. Ali shares insights on preventing potential patients from getting lost in the mix and maximizing the impact of your marketing dollars through an effective follow-up process. Plus, uncover the power of a professional website that showcases social proof, your dental philosophy, and the welcoming atmosphere of your office.
Hit play on this episode for a healthy dose of digital marketing wisdom from Ali this week!
You Can Also Reach Out to Ali Here:
Phone: 818-416-0007
Sponsors:
For modern dental practices, membership plans are the way forward — but not just any plan will do. Look ahead with the platform that puts you in control, effortlessly. Mention Dental Drill Bits for 60 days FREE! https://www.planforward.io/
Do you need a new website or marketing agency? Check out what Docsites can do for you: https://www.docsites.com/landing-pages/ddb/
Welcome to this week's episode of Dental Drill Bits! In the dental world, striking the right chord with your team's appreciation can be a delicate dance. This episode dives into the eternal office debate: should you throw an epic office party or dish out those coveted cash bonuses? We've got the insights on celebrating birthdays with professionalism, navigating the holiday season to ensure genuine team joy, and the lowdown on the nuanced differences between Year End and Christmas bonuses. We'll also explore some thoughtful gift and celebration ideas that'll leave your team smiling regardless of your office budget!
Tune in this week to discover the perfect balance between celebrations and cash for team appreciation.
Sponsors:
For modern dental practices, membership plans are the way forward — but not just any plan will do. Look ahead with the platform that puts you in control, effortlessly. Mention Dental Drill Bits for 60 days FREE! https://www.planforward.io/
Welcome to this week's episode of Dental Drill Bits, where we're diving into the ins and outs of starting a membership plan for your dental practice with the brilliant Megan Lohman, founder and co-CEO of our sponsor, Plan Forward. We'll uncover the essential role of robust membership plan software in streamlining your front office operations and eliminating administrative headaches. Discover how to approach the membership conversation with patients, whether they have insurance or not, and see how your plan can actually save your patients money – the numbers don't lie! Plus, we'll explore the challenging landscape of insurance reimbursement rates and rising operating costs for practices, and discuss the perfect timing and messaging to present your membership plan option to patients.
You won't want to miss this episode filled with invaluable insights to propel your practice forward!
Reach Out to Megan Here:
Email: mlohman@planforward.io
Phone: 833-752-7526
Sponsors:
Do you need a new website or marketing agency? Check out what Docsites can do for you: https://www.docsites.com/landing-pages/ddb/
Get ready for this week's episode of Dental Drill Bits, the third installment of our "The 3 R's for Practice Management" series! This week, we're finishing out strong with the critical "reactivation" aspect of your practice. We'll explore the delicate balance between automation and the personal touch of sending physical cards to your patients. You'll learn how to kickstart a reactivation project and when the best time is to begin. We'll also share tips on securing the most up-to-date patient contact information and, most importantly, how to boost your retention rates to an impressive 70% and beyond!
Don't miss out on these essential insights to supercharge your retention rates!
Register for Front Desk Pro, in Dallas, TX, on December 1st, 2023: https://classicpractice.com/front-desk-pro-registration/
Instructions on How to Access
Reactivation Project:
Step 1: WEBSITE
Step 2: CLICK