What happens when you need to address declining performance in a well-loved, long-time employee? It’s never an easy conversation, but it's crucial for maintaining the high standards of care in your dental practice. On this episode of the Dental Practice Heroes podcast, join me along with special guests Dr. Henry Ernst and Dr. Stephen Markowitz, as we share our experiences and strategies for tackling these tough but necessary discussions. From Dr. Markowitz’s heartfelt account of confronting a dentist’s performance issues to creating safe and genuine relationships with your team members, we explore how to navigate these challenging conversations with empathy and professionalism.

Tackling complaints about legacy staff, setting firm boundaries, and even quirky communication techniques—this episode has it all. Discover why bringing a witness into challenging meetings might be a game-changer, and how restricting break room access can make a world of difference. Dr. Henry introduces a trust exercise designed to foster open dialogue and honesty within your team, and we highlight the amusing yet effective use of a toy alligator to voice concerns indirectly. Whether it's setting clear expectations or ensuring every team member feels heard, we provide actionable insights for maintaining a cohesive, high-functioning dental practice.

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