A first-rate dental leader possesses several qualities that elevate team members from merely successful to those who are significant. These qualities include a willingness to shoulder responsibility rather than placing blame; a commitment to team members that includes being welcoming and appreciative; and maintaining a consistent level of energy and enthusiasm.
Leaders can be categorized as either Transactional or Transformational. Each approach delivers information and builds an effective practice differently. The first type is action and to-do oriented, whereas the second is thought and energy oriented. Team members will aspire to significance when they learn from a leader who is knowledgeable, passionate, and headed in the right direction.
While you may be a successful dentist and practice owner, are you leading your team toward significance? To find out, assess your leadership qualities in the following three areas.
- Area #1: Examine Your Approach. Determine if your leadership qualities are Transactional or Transformational. Transactional leaders are logical, horizontal thinkers and problem solvers, focused on time management and to-do lists. They tell their staff what they need to hear and concentrate on changing behaviors. Transformational leaders are emotional and vertical thinkers who use critical thinking, focus on energy management, and emphasize to-be lists. They are attentive to how their team members feel and changing how they think, which increases the possibility for action, success, and significance. Transformational leaders are solution-finders desiring to discover the root of a problem so it doesn’t reoccur.
- Area #2: Make Leadership Change Decisions. Inspirational leaders are responsive to change and recognize when something isn’t working. They’re willing to alter their approach until the process does work. But incorporating change also requires leaders to personalize their relationship with team members on individual levels, demonstrating care and engaging in conversations focused on any issues that should be remedied, or suggestions and ideas to improve the practice culture.
- Area #3: Use Effectual Communication Tools. Take the time to ensure that your team understands your message and is on the same page as you. Team members should be able to receive the information you have to share—whether good or bad—and act accordingly. Your practice will run more smoothly and, ultimately, be more successful. If you’re a hesitant communicator, then most likely your message isn’t clear with your team. Use software and visual tools to improve the effectiveness of your communication, as well as your confidence.
By assessing your leadership qualities in these areas, you can identify ways to enhance your leadership skills and elevate your team’s potential. Commit to a leadership approach that inspires thought, change, solutions, and appreciation, and you’ll maintain an effective practice that’s not only successful, but also significant.
