Involve team members in problem solving

Well-managed practices work on management issues proactively, looking for ways to improve and innovate rather than just responding to the fires that arise each day. Of course, striving for excellence isn't a one-person job. And getting your team involved in finding better ways to serve clients is a great first step to being more proactive.

Challenge team members to find solutions and suggest ways to improve service. When your employees get involved in creating solutions, they become part of the system—and they feel good about their contribution toward helping the practice thrive. When you share the burden of success, your team morale improves. Plus, you get help looking ahead so you spend less time troubleshooting on the fly, which should mean you have more time to dedicate to team members, patients, and clients. And that can only lead to more success.

Stephenie Slahor, Ph.D., JD, is a management educator and writer based in Palm Springs, Calif.