Believe it or Not, Money Isn’t Everything to Your TeamWhen someone advises you to “keep your team happy,” what springs to mind? Money, right? That’s what most people would think. But you may be surprised to learn that countless studies have shown that money is not the most effective motivator available when it comes to workplace behavior. While everyone should be paid fairly, there are non-financial ways to keep your team happy. Here are some tips: 1. Empower your employees. Teach the team the reasoning behind the way that you do things, so that they have the ability to view challenges the same way you would—improving the chances that they will make the “right” decision on their own. Yes, people will make mistakes, but good team members learn from mistakes and become more productive. 2. Give your team a sense of purpose. Do you find it odd that many people can’t wait to rush home from the job they are being paid to do, but then spend time volunteering for a cause? That observation should tell you something—namely, that most people are happy to work as long as it is for a good cause. So help your team to feel a sense of purpose, and they’ll be eager to come to work each day. Your practice isn’t just about making money. It’s about improving the lives of individuals by helping them maintain optimum oral heath and bright smiles. Help your team recognize the vital goal they play in achieving this goal. 3. Create a true ‘team.’ Have you ever watched a sporting event in which one team, despite superior talent, is upset by a team with inferior talent—but a true team spirit? These “less talented” teams always seem to do all of the little things right… they hustle, they spur each other on, and they do whatever it takes to win. After a game, you’ll see this team hug each other and walk off the court or field together—while the more talented team splits up and goes their separate ways. If you can create a true team environment in your office, your efficiency and your level of service will dramatically increase. Not only that, but your employees will truly enjoy working together. You create a true team spirit by clarifying goals, holding people accountable, and creating a culture that does not tolerate employees with chronically bad attitudes. In a positive environment, coming to work will be about more than simply making money—it will be about working with teammates to achieve common goals. Many dentists think that the only way to keep their team happy is to continually increase compensation. While money helps, there are a variety of other effective means of keeping your team happy. The suggestions above will get you started in the right direction. |
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