There are times when running a dental practice can feel like navigating a minefield of feedback. A patient mentions a long wait time. A colleague suggests a new approach to a procedure. Sometimes it feels like everyone's a critic! Before you put up your defenses, take a deep breath and remember to quit taking it personally (QTIP).
Whether it’s a simple observation or a piece of unsolicited criticism, the truth is that honest feedback is a gift. It might not always feel like a Tiffany's box, but it's an opportunity to grow, improve, and ultimately, create a more successful practice. Here's how to master the art of QTIP-ing:
Take a Deep Breath. Before reacting, take a moment to center yourself. Remember, their comment is about the situation, not youpersonally.
Listen with an Open Mind. Actively listen without interrupting. Ask clarifying questions to truly understand their perspective.
Seek the Silver Lining. Look for the nugget of truth in their feedback. What can you do to take their feedback to heart in a meaningful way?
Thank Them for Sharing. A simple "thank you for letting me know" shows you value their opinion and are open to improvement.
By QTIP-ing your way through feedback, you unlock a treasure trove of potential improvements. It's not about being perfect; it’s about constantly striving to create the best version of your dental practice. With the right mindset, feedback isn’t personal—it’s powerful!
Kirk Behrendt is a renowned consultant and speaker in the dental industry, known for his expertise in helping dentists create better practices and better lives. With over 30 years of experience in the field, Kirk has dedicated his professional life to optimizing the best systems and practices in dentistry. Kirk has been a featured speaker at every major dental meeting in the United States. His company, ACT Dental, has consistently been ranked as one of the top dental consultants in Dentistry Today's annual rankings for the past 10 years. In addition, ACT Dental was named one of the fastest-growing companies in the United States by Inc Magazine, appearing on their Inc 5000 list. Kirk's motivational skills are widely recognized in the dental industry. Dr. Peter Dawson of The Dawson Academy has referred to Kirk as "THE best motivator I have ever heard." Kirk has also assembled a trusted team of advisor experts who work with dentists to customize individual solutions that meet their unique needs. When he's not motivating dentists and their teams, Kirk enjoys coaching his children's sports teams and spending time with his amazing wife, Sarah, and their four children, Kinzie, Lily, Zoe, and Bo.
