Lucie Simic discusses why introducing an annual pay rise for your dental team is not just fair, but necessary.
In dentistry, we understand the importance of staying ahead in patient care, technology and treatment options. Yet one area where a dental practice can fall behind is compensation for their teams.
While some forward-thinking practices have already adopted regular annual pay rises, others still don’t offer this, despite this being the ‘norm’ across other industries.
A practice’s greatest asset is its people. Dental nurses, receptionists, treatment coordinators and practice managers are the backbone of every successful clinic. Ensuring they feel valued and appreciated is essential to maintaining high morale and retaining staff, especially in a profession where burnout is a real issue.
Inflation impact
It is no secret that inflation is affecting all aspects of life, including the cost of living. As prices rise, team members feel the financial pinch.
I have been travelling the UK for work a lot in the last couple of months, and it is impossible not to notice the increases everywhere – a cup of coffee in a café, hotel rooms and the cost of a meal out. Your team will be noticing this too.
While dental practices are likely already considering increasing fees to reflect inflation, the same logic should apply to staff pay. Introducing an annual pay rise that keeps pace with inflation is not just fair, but necessary.
There’s a common understanding that ‘money doesn’t motivate’. While it’s true that motivation comes from intrinsic factors such as a positive work environment, opportunities for growth, and recognition, financial security plays a foundational role.
If employees are constantly stressed about making ends meet, they are less likely to be motivated, productive or engaged. In short, money may not be the primary motivator, but it certainly helps.
For a while now there has been lots of discussion around staff retention challenges in practices. A practice that invests in its people will likely see a stronger sense of community, increased job satisfaction and, ultimately, better patient care.
A culture of fairness and respect
Those that fail to adapt risk losing valuable team members to other industries or practices offering better pay. The phrase ‘the grass is greener where you water it’ rings true here.
Remember, the team will see that practice fees are rising to accommodate external pressures, but they may notice that their own pay is not increasing at the same pace.
This disconnect can lead to dissatisfaction and a feeling that their hard work is undervalued.
Aligning pay with inflation is not just about staying competitive but about fostering a culture of fairness, respect, and motivation.
Practices that embrace this shift will be rewarded with dedicated teams who are willing to go the extra mile for both the practice and its patients.
After all, the grass is greener where you water it. Let’s water it well.
Read more from Lucie Simic:
- Maximising the summer holidays for practice growth
- Taylor Swift’s Eras Tour: what can practices learn from it?
- Future-proof your dental team: ask ‘who’, not ‘how’
- How to use feedback to grow your practice
- The crucial role of persistence in customer follow-up.
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