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A Guest Post by Mark Topley
Dental practice owners and managers, it's time for a heart-to-heart about a hidden hurdle within your recruitment process — the "Interim" stage.
This critical period—between the job acceptance and the first day—often goes unnoticed, but it can be pivotal in integrating new hires into your team. Ignoring it may lead to misunderstandings, a lack of connection, and even the loss of your ideal candidate.
If my conversations with clients are anything to go by, this loss of connection in the interim stage is growing increasingly common.
Imagine this: after a lengthy search, you finally find the perfect associate dentist, hygienist, nurse, receptionist or manager. They've signed on the dotted line, and you've set their starting date. You breathe a sigh of relief, but your work isn't done yet. Nowadays, this is when the real work begins.
Communication in the “Interim” can make or break the commitment. No contact can lead to a disconnection; they might not show up or, worse, decline the offer last minute.The steps you take next can either seal the deal or fray the threads of your new working relationship.
Communication: The Linchpin of Commitment
The "Interim" isn't just a waiting period; it's a crucial phase for fostering a relationship with your new hire. A silent void during these days can create doubt and pave the way for a no-show—or worse, a rescinded acceptance. So, what's your move? To navigate this, it’s worth reflecting on the fundamental building blocks for a high performance culture - Belonging, vulnerability, purpose.
Fostering Belonging and Safety
Creating a culture of belonging is essential for integrating new hires during the "Interim" stage. Actions like personalised welcome messages and introductions to the team members can significantly reduce anxiety and build a connection with the dental practice. Regular communication before the start day reassures new employees, making them feel secure and valued, which is critical for their ability to thrive and engage with their new role.
Encouraging Vulnerability
Openness and honesty should be encouraged from the outset, demonstrating to new hires that everyone, including leaders, has room to grow. By sharing personal stories of growth, practice owners set an example, fostering an environment where questions and learning are welcome. This shared vulnerability during the "Interim" period cultivates trust and underscores the practice's dedication to support and continuous development.
Inspiring Through Purpose
Clearly communicating the dental practice's purpose can inspire new hires and energise their commitment. Whether it's focusing on patient care excellence or community health initiatives, establishing how the new role contributes to these goals can give a sense of meaningful contribution. Outlining the impact of their work helps align new team members with the practice's mission, enhancing engagement and fostering long-term loyalty.
The Unique Dental Recruitment Landscape
In the dental industry, the competition for attracting and retaining talent is fierce. There are so many challenges, from a shortage of candidates to the demanding nature of the work, making the "Interim" stage even more significant. Don't let this gap become a chasm.
The Welcome that Works Wonders
But remember, it's not just about niceties. Creating a welcoming environment from the start can substantially boost employee retention. How? By investing emotionally in your new hire before they even step through the door, you significantly increase the likelihood that they arrive eager and ready to contribute from the outset.
A Guide through the "Interim" Maze
Recognising the struggles in the dental recruitment process, I've packaged my experience into a cheat sheet that’s been instrumental for my clients and is now available to you. This guide walks you through the four stages of effective recruitment, turning the often-overlooked "Interim" stage from neglected to necessary.
Don't let an overlooked recruitment phase become the weak link in building your dental practice dream team. Embrace the "Interim" stage. Manifest the commitment and culture that will inspire your new hires to stay and grow with your practice.
Download the cheat sheet, and see how an attentive approach to recruitment can become the cornerstone of your practice’s success.