Women in Dentistry - Blog

The Importance of Accountability

Managing a practice is not getting any easier. Being flexible and adaptable is definitely part of the job description. And dentists have proven their ability to do this especially after having to constantly pivot during the pandemic.

Dentists are also leaders. You are leaders in your neighborhood, community, and you are also leaders in your practice. The role of a leader extends far beyond management. As leaders we must be committed to accountability. Effective leadership is critical to inspire trust, foster collaboration, and drive results in the practice.

If we want our teams to be effective and ensure patients have an exceptional experience in the office, as a leader, one is obligated to answer for actions, decisions, and the outcomes of their teams. It is the relentless pursuit of transparency and responsibility that distinguishes great leaders from the rest. When leaders hold themselves accountable, they set a powerful example for their teams, encouraging a culture where everyone feels responsible for their contributions.

We can all agree that trust is the cornerstone of any successful team or practice. Leaders who demonstrate accountability foster an environment of trust, where team members feel safe to express their ideas, take risks, and learn from their mistakes. When leaders admit their errors and take responsibility, they humanize themselves, making them more relatable and trustworthy in the eyes of their staff and ultimately patients.

There is nothing worse than the blaming game. People pointing fingers at others when things do not go right. A culture of accountability enhances team dynamics by promoting open communication and collaboration. When leaders are accountable, they create a safe space for team members to voice concerns and provide feedback. This openness not only strengthens relationships but also drives innovation, as diverse perspectives are valued and considered.

A key benefit of accountability is that it encourages personal and professional growth. Team members who know they are held to a standard of accountability are more likely to take ownership of their work, leading to higher performance and job satisfaction. This sense of ownership can transform a group of individuals into a cohesive and motivated team.

So why be accountable? Why should you explain yourself to anyone? Afterall, you are the one who pays wages and creates economic security for other families while still treating patients. Without accountability so many negative consequences can be created - a toxic culture where blame-shifting becomes commonplace resulting in diminished morale, low productivity and stifling creativity.

Leaders who do not subscribe to the need to be accountable, may struggle to build credibility and respect among their teams. Employees are more likely to disengage when they perceive that leadership is not held to the same standards they are expected to meet. This disconnect can result in high turnover rates and a loss of talent.

So how does one create accountability?

• Set Clear Expectations: Clearly defined goals and expectations provide a roadmap for accountability. Leaders should communicate what success looks like and the standards by which performance will be measured.
• Encourage Open Communication: Foster an environment where team members feel comfortable sharing feedback and discussing challenges. Regular check-ins and making yourself available can facilitate this communication.
• Lead by Example: In other words, walk the talk. Model the behavior you wish to see in your teams. By admitting mistakes and demonstrating a commitment to learning, leaders can inspire similar behavior in others.
• Recognize and Reward Accountability: Acknowledge and celebrate instances of accountability within the team. Recognition can reinforce positive behaviors and motivate others to follow suit.

Remember, accountability is not merely a management tool; it is a vital component of effective leadership. By embracing accountability, as a dentist and as a leader you can build trust, enhance team dynamics, and drive performance. As much as a practice needs patients, (or a business need clients), your success is heavily dependent on collaboration and innovation. Accountability most certainly enables this to be achieved.

Jackie Joachim - COO ROI Corp.

Jackie Joachim is the Chief Operating Officer of ROI Corporation since 2013. As one of the main appraisers in the firm, Jackie has personally been involved in over 10,000 appraisals since joining ROI Corporation. She has had the privilege of appraising practices throughout Canada. Prior to joining ROI Corporation, Jackie was instrumental in helping build the BMO brand in the healthcare sector. Jackie led her own sales team, worked with account managers across the country and strategized with the national head office.

Jackie has been in the industry for over 30 years.She has been a keynote speaker at both national and provincial association conventions where she has had the privilege of speaking with thousands of practitioners across Canada. Jackie understands how a practice works and the unique needs of healthcare professionals. Her personal goal for practitioners is to see them be strong businesspeople who are able to take pride in their profession and reap the benefits of their hard work.