Teamwork is an indispensable factor in any professional setting where people work together, including dental laboratories. An efficient and highly motivated team is usually the key to a successful business. In many cases, only a few tweaks are all that‘s needed to motivate and inspire laboratory staff.
It‘s very important for a laboratory to use the latest technology, equipment and materials. The fact that they are working with state-of-the-art equipment and cutting-edge technology will provide team members with much inspiration.
Is the proper equipment the only aspect that needs to be considered?
The work procedures followed by a laboratory are just as important as the equipment it uses. Streamlining the processes within the laboratory will definitely improve the atmosphere among the team members. It will enable them to accomplish their work more efficiently and above all more reliably. This brings us to the subject of process reliability, which is a highly motivating factor.
Dental material is important
The materials you choose to use should be as versatile as possible, but also highly esthetic. When dental technicians have the privilege of working with highly esthetic materials, they will be more inspired to reach new creative heights. In the end they will be proud of having achieved something great. Their well-honed skills and great-quality materials will fully complement each other.
What other factors can have a motivating effect in the dental laboratory?
Dental technicians like to see the outcome of their work in the mouth of the patient. They want to see for themselves how their restorations look and fit and find out if everything is in order. They would like to know how the patient feels about the result. Very often, however, there is a lack of feedback, even though many possibilities are available: for example, a direct report from the dentist, photos of the try-in or even an invitation to attend this appointment.
Being able to see the patient heightens the technicians‘ proximity to the process. If they cannot meet the patient personally, then modern means of communication can help to establish a connection. The work of the technician becomes more personalized, which is important since the restorative process can be very emotional for some people. In any case, it is extremely rewarding for dental technicians to be actively involved in the process.
How important is it as a motivational tool in dental labs?
Dental technicians are keen to master new techniques and processes. They appreciate being given the possibility to further develop their skills and exchange views and experiences with colleagues. These opportunities are not only a reward, but an absolute must. In many areas, dental technicians would not be able to continue working without learning about new technologies.
Conclusion:
It takes only a few small details to motivate your dental laboratory staff. The most important ones have been presented in the interview above:
- Modern technology/equipment
- Highly esthetic, high-quality materials
- User-friendly processes and process reliability
- Personal proximity to the process
- Professional development opportunities