Culture. It’s a confusing term with far-reaching implications, much like the year 2020. See, the culture of your organization determines success, growth, longevity, and more.
It encompasses almost everything within your practice, including core beliefs and behaviors that can potentially add or detract from your bottom line. Establishing a strong culture within your medical clinic is key to achieving optimal results.
For most businesses, culture is a nebulous idea, a critical element that is difficult to define. Because of this, organizations often fail to specify the terms of their culture, keeping employees from fully understanding the expectations associated with their jobs. This leads to confusion and even frustration for EVERYONE.
The best way to combat this is simple: clearly define your values, objectives, and goals. According to Malcom Bradbury, “Culture is a way of coping with the world by defining it in detail.” The more detailed the plan, the better the culture. And the better the culture, the better your clinic’s overall success.
Here are a few ideas to positively build your practice’s culture:
- Lead by example. Your actions directly influence the culture of your clinic. Just as it was said in the movie Remember the Titans, “Attitude reflects leadership.” Greet your employees daily, recognize their successes, and praise them for jobs well done. All people, old and young, appreciate sincere compliments and being seen, literally and figuratively. Follow the Golden Rule and frequently express your gratitude for their efforts.
- Define and set goals. Sit down with each employee and discuss the goals they have for themselves, along with the goals you have for them. Write down these goals, regularly meet with your employees to track them, and be willing to revise them frequently.
- Establish an open-door policy. This is so important. Why? Because your employees need to feel that you’ve got their backs. We all want to feel protected, and you can help make this happen for your employees by listening to their concerns, problems, or questions. Validate their thoughts and help them discover productive solutions. Listen first, respond second.
- Be honest. Even when it’s hardest, tell the truth. If your employee did a subpar job, let him/her know. Don’t sugarcoat the issue, but be tactful in your delivery. No one has ever improved without occasionally feeling a little uncomfortable. As Christian Bosse once said, “Real growth is rooted in honest reflection.”
- Demand perfection. If you demand it, they’ll get close to it. We all know that perfection is ultimately unattainable, but it should be the goal of every organization. Strive for the best and expect your employees to do the same. Vince Lombardi wisely stated, “. . . If we chase perfection, we can catch excellence.”
Contact us today to see how PCIS can help better your clinic “catch excellence.”
