Begin by showing the staff how appreciated and important they are on a regular basis. The morning huddle is a time for the staff input. Be sure to ask for opinions and information from the dental assistants, office staff, and hygienists.

Be aware of what the team does, and complement them on a job well done. Spread the kindness around. Everyone deserves appreciation. An end of day meeting is a good time to sum up what was done right and how to improve.

When decorating the office ask for staff input. Do not hang yellow shades if your favorite employee hates yellow. When shopping for dental assistant stools, ask the dental assistants what they like. This will give the staff a sense of ownership in the office.

Build camaraderie and mutual respect with lunch and learn opportunities. Ask a staff member to develop a presentation on their area of expertise or to research a topic. Pay that staffer a small stipend, and treat everyone to lunch.

Everyone likes food, and everyone appreciates the people who feed them. Bring sweets, cookies and snacks into the office on an irregular basis. Maintain this as a treat; regularity becomes expected. Take everyone out for lunch for no reason, to discuss business, or to celebrate birthdays. This need not be fine dining. Just the opportunity to get together outside of the office is a team building experience.

Occasionally, allow younger staff members to program the music for the office. Don't complain. Instead, complement their choices. This tiny kindness means a lot to some people.

Of course, there is nothing wrong with augmenting generosity of spirit with plain old generosity. Conversely, cash is not a substitute for appreciation, consideration and courtesy.

Author: Dr. David Leader

© 2008 Associated Content