Make a fresh in S.T.A.R.T 2009

Each year we ring in the new year with our resolutions- to get to work on time, to communicate better, to be more productive, to spend less, manage our time better. Yet as the weeks go on we find ourselves back in our same patterns. For example, maybe this year the winter weather will get in the way of meeting your resolutions related to production goals. The snow falls, we cancel a day or two of work and we easily slip into the “oh well, here we go again” mode. 

Let’s look at four areas that can assist you in accomplishing and exceeding your goals for 2009: 

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Self Evaluation: How are you doing?

We are all part of several different teams. Workplaces consist of teams. A family is a team. Your group of friends is a team. But every team is made up of individuals and the most productive teams flourish when each team member is working toward the same goal. We invite you to ask yourself the following questions to assess whether you are acting in a self-directed or team-directed mode.

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Are You a Part of the Team?

There are several significant distinctions between a group and a team. A group is typically a collective number of people who have come together for a variety of different reasons. Usually, the members of the group are focused on their own interests rather than the common good of the group. A team, however, is typically comprised of a collective number of individuals who have come together to advance the team as a unit and who share the same goals.

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Understanding and Being Understood

Have you ever had a conversation with another individual and wondered if you were understood at all? Have you at times had a conversation with yourself and wondered if you understand yourself? Communication is a tool that we take for granted and don't get the opportunity to build skill in very often- but it is the most important tool in the toolbox for vision development, time management, strategic planning, facilitation, team building, interpersonal communications, conflict resolution and leadership skills.

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Is Your Business in Compliance?

Owning and managing a small business can be overwhelming at times. In today 's employment world with labor laws as they are, every business must be up-to-date on labor law compliance. In the past, small businesses have operated without such protection, but in today's litigious society that is not a prudent business decision.

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Proven Steps Toward Highly-Effective Staff Meetings

One hallmark of a great leader is that they take the time to remember, recognize and motivate team members. Team members often report that these small steps create a sense of comfort, camaraderie and a true desire to work to their potential. A dental office truly is a team. The best and most effective leaders understand this and take the time to acknowledge those who contribute to their success every day. Recognition breeds professional satisfaction and also contributes significantly to reducing office turnover.

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Simple Steps to Create a Lasting Impression

One hallmark of a great leader is that they take the time to remember, recognize and motivate team members. Team members often report that these small steps create a sense of comfort, camaraderie and a true desire to work to their potential. A dental office truly is a team. The best and most effective leaders understand this and take the time to acknowledge those who contribute to their success every day. Recognition breeds professional satisfaction and also contributes significantly to reducing office turnover.

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The Essential Seven Motivators

Does it seem like your team members are constantly asking for more money? It’s a common frustration of business managers that spans both industry and geography. But, often times, if you take the initiative to dig a bit deeper, the employee is really asking to be motivated.

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Learning to Fly in Formation

Imagine the opportunity to enjoy an evening on your deck appreciating all the beauty of our spectacular landscape. I take that opportunity whenever possible. This time of year I often find a flock of geese that bless me with their abundant cheering (honking!). It reminds me of a dental team I have the privilege of knowing and working with.

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A True Story of Inspiration and Leadership

Imagine yourself as a young, woman dentist purchasing your first dental practice, ready to set the world on fire. Your patients love you. Your location on the tenth floor of a well- known downtown building suits you. The daily comings and goings of the Washington State Ferry system keep you entertained, as well as the hustle and bustle of the city below. The commute to work is easy, and the art of dentistry excites you.

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