Last updated on Jun 27, 2024

Here's how you can navigate conflicts among employees with differing experience levels in a dental practice.

Conflicts among employees in a dental practice can stem from a multitude of sources, but when they arise between individuals with differing levels of experience, they can be particularly challenging. These situations require a nuanced approach to ensure that all parties feel heard and respected. As a practice manager, your role is to navigate these conflicts with a combination of empathy and strategy, fostering an environment where each team member can thrive regardless of their tenure. It's essential to address these issues promptly and effectively to maintain a harmonious and productive workplace.

1 Recognize Issues

When conflicts arise between employees of different experience levels, it's crucial to recognize the issue early. Listen actively to the concerns of each party involved. Experienced staff may feel their methods are being questioned, while newer employees might feel their fresh perspectives are undervalued. Acknowledge the strengths that each individual brings to the team, and emphasize the value of diverse experiences in fostering a dynamic and innovative practice environment.

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2 Open Dialogue

Facilitating an open dialogue is key to resolving conflicts. Encourage employees to express their viewpoints in a safe and structured setting. This can be done through regular team meetings or one-on-one discussions. It's important for everyone to feel that their voice matters and that they're part of the solution. By promoting transparency and communication, you can help bridge the gap between different experience levels and work towards a mutual understanding.

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3 Set Expectations

Clearly setting expectations can prevent many conflicts from occurring. Ensure that all employees understand their roles, responsibilities, and the standards of conduct expected within the practice. Experienced staff should be reminded of the importance of mentorship, while newer employees need to recognize the value of established protocols. When everyone knows what is expected of them, it reduces uncertainty and friction.

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Michelle Pritchard

Transforming Dental Practices for Unrivalled Success ⇰ Unlock your potential with one to one services ⇰ Empowering dentists & specialists for growth, profitability & fulfilment ⇰ To learn more, check out the Link below👇
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From experience, I have found the following crucial in preventing conflicts among employees with differing experience levels: 1. When Onboarding, Set Clear Expectations: Define roles, responsibilities, and conduct standards. 2. Emphasise Values: Discuss practice values during onboarding and daily operations. This aligns everyone and fosters an environment where strengths are recognised. 3. Focus on Key Factors: Prioritise patient experience, teamwork, and clinical excellence, intertwined with practice values. 4. Promote Open Communication: Encourage a culture of open communication for the benefit of the practice, team, and patients.

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4 Mediate Fairly

When mediating conflicts, it's important to remain neutral and fair. Avoid taking sides based on tenure, and focus on the facts and feelings expressed by each individual. By providing an impartial perspective, you can help employees find common ground and work through their differences. A fair mediation process demonstrates your commitment to all staff members and to maintaining a positive practice environment.

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5 Foster Growth

Encourage professional growth and learning within your team. Offer opportunities for continuing education and cross-training, allowing employees to appreciate each other's roles and challenges. This not only expands their skill sets but also promotes empathy and understanding across different experience levels. When team members grow together, they are more likely to support one another and collaborate effectively.

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6 Celebrate Success

Finally, celebrate the successes of your team as a whole. Recognizing achievements, whether from seasoned veterans or new hires, can boost morale and reinforce the value of every team member. Celebrations can be simple acknowledgments during meetings or more formal recognition programs. By celebrating together, you reinforce a culture of mutual respect and appreciation that transcends experience levels.

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7 Here’s what else to consider

This is a space to share examples, stories, or insights that don’t fit into any of the previous sections. What else would you like to add?

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Here's how you can navigate conflicts among employees with differing experience levels in a dental practice.

1

2

3

4

5

6

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1 Recognize Issues

2 Open Dialogue

3 Set Expectations

4 Mediate Fairly

5 Foster Growth

6 Celebrate Success

7 Here’s what else to consider

Practice Management

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Here's how you can navigate conflicts among employees with differing experience levels in a dental practice.

1

2

3

4

5

6

7

1 Recognize Issues

2 Open Dialogue

3 Set Expectations

4 Mediate Fairly

5 Foster Growth

6 Celebrate Success

7 Here’s what else to consider

Practice Management

Rate this article

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