We bet this process will work in your practice!
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I was working with a client who was in complete panic mode. One of Dr. Todd’s key employees had emergency surgery she would miss work for at least the next week. Dr. Todd was scrambling and kicking himself for not cross training his Team. It was something he had wanted to do but kept saying, “I don’t have time.”
I must admit, I cringe when I hear clients say this. Truth is – there is plenty of time to accomplish cross training, it’s just that it hasn’t been placed as a priority.
The highest performing practices utilize a process that’s effective and less time-consuming than you may think. When you create a task-related system and process, you won’t be in a frenzy the next time an employee calls in sick, takes a vacation, or worse yet, has an emergency situation that can demand an indefinite amount of missed work.
Although you may feel as if you don’t have time to train anyone, spending six hours training someone on a two hour per week task saves you nearly 100 hours per year!
So, here’s how you and your Team can get started in 3 easy steps. First, write a list of steps for each task that’s performed regularly and the best ways for completing those steps.
This checklist can be reviewed during the next step. Many people learn through observation, so ask your team members to shadow each other to see how those tasks are performed. This will train more than one employee in each area.
For maximum efficiency, create process sheets for as many activities as possible. Keep in mind, you and your Team only have to create the process lists once but they can forever be referred to. Periodically shift your employees, for one or two hours during your workday, into another role in the office. So, move your therapy employees to the front desk and so on. This allows hands-on experience while being able to refer to the process lists and each other.
The bonus to cross training is unlimited! Not only do you have a well-trained and well-functioning office but the process lists can be used when you hire new employees. You’ve effectively created useful training materials. Plus, the office morale typically shoots thru the roof. Your Team members have a deeper appreciation for each other and the skills necessary to do their jobs well. You also build a more cohesive team as many office roles overlap.
So, your action step is to start creating process lists in your office. Have a 5-10 minute meeting to review the 3 easy steps. You and your Team won’t panic the next time an employee is out… Instead, you’ll all be confident in shifting into different roles!
So, what do you think about these ideas? We’d love to hear from you. Please post your comments, tweet this, like it on facebook or share the link with a colleague.
How would you like to get fifty to a hundred new patients without ever leaving your office – one or two new patients each week. Better yet, how would you like to get an absolutely FREE no-obligation “30-day test drive” to see how this patient attraction system works for you?!! Well – you can – thanks to our sponsor – Endless Patient Referrals! So call and ask me about getting 50 to 100 new patients a year!
Thanks for watching. Until next time, we wish you health and happiness. Here’s to growing your practice from within.
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Growing your practice from within.
