Taylor Swift’s Eras Tour: what can practices learn from it?

This month, Lucie Simic discusses why Taylor Swift’s Eras Tour is a blueprint for engaging the modern workforce in dental practices.

Taylor Swift’s ‘Eras Tour’ has not just captivated audiences, but also provided a masterclass in engagement, authenticity and connection.

I will happily admit to some major FOMO (fear of missing out) while it felt like the world and their dog attended the recent concert dates, with everyone taking part in their own way with incredible Eras-inspired outfits or sharing friendship bracelets. You can’t help but get swept up in it all.

But I think there is lots to learn from Swift’s approach to storytelling and audience interaction. Her concerts, a nostalgic journey through her musical career, offer valuable insights into creating a fulfilling and authentic workplace, especially relevant for the dental industry facing a new wave of young professionals coming onto the scene.

The power of storytelling

Taylor Swift’s ability to weave a compelling narrative over the span of a three-hour concert is a testament to the power of storytelling.

This isn’t just about entertainment; it’s about creating a shared experience where the audience feels seen and heard.

In the same vein, dental practices can harness storytelling to foster a sense of belonging among employees. Sharing the practice’s history, successes and patient stories can help team members connect with the larger purpose of their work.

Avoiding alienation

One of the key takeaways from Swift’s tour is the importance of avoiding alienation.

Just as Swift’s concerts are devoid of pretension and full of genuine emotion, dental practices must strive for authenticity in their workplace culture. Asking employees to endorse values that contradict their personal ethics creates a disconnect that can lead to disengagement.

Instead, practices should ensure their core values are not only articulated but also lived. This involves creating an environment where employees can openly discuss their principles and see them reflected in the practice’s actions.

For example, if a dental practice prides itself on patient-centric care, this value should be evident in every interaction and decision, from the front desk to the treatment rooms. This alignment helps prevent the sense of alienation and builds trust within the team.

Increasing authentic living

Swift’s concerts are known for their empathy, kindness and inclusivity – qualities that are equally crucial in a workplace.

Authentic living in a dental practice means creating an environment where team members feel valued for their unique contributions and can see their work’s impact. This involves fostering empathy and active listening, both with patients and among staff.

Encouraging continuous learning and personal growth is another vital aspect. Just as Swift’s musical journey allows her audience to experience an evolution, dental practices should offer career development opportunities that align with employees’ aspirations.

This might mean providing training for new dental techniques, supporting further education or simply creating a culture where feedback is welcomed and acted upon.

Balancing external pressure

The external pressures in the dental industry—such as maintaining high standards of care and meeting regulatory requirements—can sometimes overshadow the importance of authenticity.

Swift’s approach offers a different perspective. Instead of striving for perfection, she embraces her journey, complete with its highs and lows, and encourages her audience to do the same.

In a dental practice, this can translate to promoting a culture of curiosity and continuous improvement rather than one focused solely on flawless performance. Encouraging team members to experiment with new techniques, learn from mistakes and support each other in these endeavours can lead to a more innovative and resilient practice.

Practical steps for creating an ‘Eras’ workplace culture

Narrative and connection: Regularly share the practice’s journey, celebrate milestones, and highlight individual contributions to create a shared narrative
Values in action: Ensure that the practice’s values are reflected in everyday operations and decision-making. Open dialogues about personal and professional ethics can help align these values with the team’s actions
Empathy and growth: Foster a supportive environment where empathy and active listening are prioritised. Provide opportunities for professional development and personal growth to help employees achieve their full potential
Curiosity over perfection: Encourage a mindset shift from perfectionism to curiosity. Create a safe space for experimentation, learning, and open feedback.

I think it’s imperative that practices create a workplace that resonates with the younger workforce’s desire for authenticity, connection and purpose.

Just as Taylor Swift’s Eras Tour captivates audiences by telling a genuine story, dental practices can engage their teams by fostering an environment where everyone feels valued and inspired.

In doing so, they not only enhance employee satisfaction but also improve patient care and overall practice success.