It always surprises me most of the dentists who would benefit from a coach or consultant don’t feel like they need one, or believe the solution is to buy new equipment or take a course on a new technique. Although new materials and updated technology can be beneficial, unless the foundation of your practice is working well, you won’t be able to reap the full benefit of adding a service or changing procedures.
Fixing that foundation is usually what leads dentists to hire third party help, such as a consultant or a coach.
What about you and your dental practice?
Are you ready for an extra hand running your business?
If so, it’s important to distinguish between the benefits of a professional business coach vs. an industry consultant before bringing a third party into your practice.
Since I so often hear from dentists who struggle to balance clinical excellence with the demands running a successful practice (staffing, business management, patient experience and business growth), I am going to delve into the differences between coaches and consultants.
Don’t forget to have a look at the list of 5 signs that you may need a dental coach.
What to expect from a dental coach
If you’re thinking about hiring a dental coach, here’s an idea of what to expect.
Dental coaches don’t tell you what to do, nor do they do the work for you. Instead, a dental coach focuses on one thing: you.
Your dental coach will have discussions with you, identify areas for improvement in your practice, and provide a roadmap to help you reach your goals. Dental coaches also help you focus your attention on aspects of the business that will make the biggest impact.
A dental coach believes that the key to improving your practice begins with you, and he or she will be devoted to helping you reach your maximum potential as a professional.
If you need someone to help you clarify and set goals, keep you motivated, assist in making decisions, and fine tune your skills, a dental coach is the way to go.
Expect self-improvement, business development, and a streamlined practice.
What to expect from a dental consultant
While dental consultants have a lot in common with dental coaches, there is a marked difference between the two: notably, while coaches are “you-focused,” consultants are 100% about the business.
A consultant is an expert in the industry that is there to teach you skills you don’t already have and introduce new systems into the practice. As an expert, they are particularly good at solving specific problems and implementing specific strategies.
Dental consultants will observe your practice, analyze what they see, develop an action plan and implement that strategy.
Working with a consultant is beneficial because they can assign specific tasks and projects that lead to improvements in your business.
5 Signs you’re ready for a dental coach or dental consultant
Now that you know the difference between dental coaches vs. dental consultants, let’s have a look at some of the most telltale signs that you’re ready for a little extra help in your practice.
- You are ready to take your business to the next level.
- Maybe you feel like you are in cruise control. Your business is almost running itself but you know in the back of your mind there is more you could or should be doing. A coach is someone on your side, ready to help you achieve your maximum potential.
- You love the feeling of achieving goals but don’t always enjoy the process.
- Having a trusted advisor will motivate you, know how to keep you on track and support you in realizing your goals.
- You are ready to make a transition.
- Are you bringing on an associate, switching to assisted hygiene, buying a new office or getting ready to retire?
- You feel overwhelmed by the choices in front of you.
- Dentistry is going through a significant industry change and those who make the right decisions will gain the competitive advantage.
- You’re tired of doing it all yourself.
- You feel like you are spinning your wheels and want the support of an ally to understanding your business
Dental Coach or Dental Consultant? Do what’s right for your practice.
So what’s right for your practice? A dental coach or a dental consultant?
At ClearEdge Innovation we believe in a hybrid approach that relies heavily on coaching with a flair for consulting. We trust as dentists you have the vision, skills, and understanding of your practice but may be lacking the motivation, focus and follow through that we can bring as coaches. But because of our in-depth industry knowledge in dentistry we also have the know-how to introduce proven solutions and help you implement them.
If you’re ready to learn more, contact us today.
The right match is essential to the success of any coaching/consulting relationship. Let’s set-up a complimentary 30-minute initial conversation to get to know each other and discuss your desires, ideals, needs, available time and deadlines After that, if you want to get going, we will work on customizing a plan specific to you and your team.