Dos and don'ts for practice leadership: Know when to rely on outside experts

Once dentists understand the importance of spending 98% of their time chairside, increasing production, they usually try to delegate as much as possible to staff members. The other area where dentists should rely on others -- high-level decision-making -- poses more of a challenge.

Seek the advice of acknowledged experts. Some of the most important decisions practice owners must make are in areas they know little about. By the same token that you spent many years learning to be a dentist, outside experts -- in real estate, law, financial planning, accounting, insurance, and management -- know vastly more than you do in their specialized areas. Take advantage of their knowledge and experience when faced with major decisions in those areas. You and your practice will benefit enormously.

Don't be afraid you'll lose control. Some dentists hesitate to bring in experts because they think it means handing over control to others, being less of a leader. Nothing could be further from the truth. Your experts will make recommendations, but you will still be the ultimate decision-maker -- and a much better one at that.

Roger P. Levin, DDS, is the chairman and CEO of practice management consulting firm Levin Group. You can connect with Levin Group on Facebook and Twitter (@Levin_Group) to learn more strategies and share ideas. Also, check out Dr. Levin's free practice management videos at www.levingroup.com/gp.

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