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Stress Management Tips for Dental Office Staff
Webster defines respect as, “a willingness to show consideration or appreciation to feel or show deferential regard for.” A little respect for one another truly goes a long way. Unfortunately, more often than not there is a lack of respect between fellow co-workers, including the employer or dentist in this case.
Dentistry, more so than other professional disciplines, tends to breed self-absorption of one’s particular job title. This leads to resentment resulting in an underlying stress and tension within the office. Collectively, we tend to concentrate solely on our respective job title and responsibilities, unwilling to recognize our fellow co-workers’ positions. Because of this, we are quick to react and judge others when our day isn’t running smoothly. These confrontations are often carried out in front of other staff members, or even worse, in front of the patient. Let’s ask ourselves why this happens and together work at resolving this issue of respect, or lack of it.
Cross-training is a highly effective method of attaining an understanding of our co-worker’s job and the responsibilities that coincide with it. By implementing a cross-training program within your office, you are taking steps towards running a smooth operation, reducing tension, and promoting mutual respect for one another. You can institute a cross-training program by having each member of the dental team, including the dentist, write down a complete job description encountered during a typical working day. Log these job descriptions into your office manual. Hold a staff meeting allowing the specific person or department to conduct a tour of their work area and act out exactly what transpires during a typical day. By observing what actually goes into a job, one develops a better understanding and respect for it. In addition, one develops the ability to effectively pitch in when a team member is bogged down. The number of staff in your office will dictate the number of meetings it will take to cover all job titles. Obviously duplicate jobs can double up during a meeting.
Cross-training is just one approach to reducing tension in the office.
Other stress busters include:
- An ergonomically organized office applying the principles of Feng Shui.
- Effective communication skills.
- Adequate materials and supplies.
- Updated equipment and instruments.
- A properly-trained and adequate number of staff.
- Deep breathing techniques.
- Brief meditations: Simply close your eyes and concentrate on your body and breathing.
- Taking a 10-minute vacation in your mind by visualizing your favorite place.
- Aromatherapy scents placed throughout your office.
- Drinking plenty of water throughout the day.
- Eating well-balanced meals.
- Fifteen-minute breaks away from the work environment.
- Lunch breaks outside the office setting or in a lounge area.
- Mild stretching positions. Pilates (pronounced Puh-LAH-teez) is a method of stretching that improves flexibility to make you more aware of your body as a single integrated unit to improve alignment and increase efficiency of movement. Fitness is essential to a happy being.
These are just some ideas your office can implement to reduce stress and promote respect.
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