In a previous article I discussed the importance of integrating a new associate into the practice in the right way. But how exactly do you do that?

As I mentioned then, you'll find my comprehensive coaching in the Spear Digital Campus, but here are four essential keys for giving the new dentist a head start on success in your practice.

1. Pair the new dentist with your best assistant. There are several reasons for this. First of all, pairing the new person with your most efficient veteran staffer is the quickest way to get the newcomer up to speed – both clinically and with regard to your office culture. Secondly, it maintains continuity in the eyes of the patients, who will still be seeing a familiar face. And it also gives the new dentist a valuable and influential ally in the practice. It's important that this new dentist is paired up with someone who will see to it that their interests are never overlooked. In fact, assigning this assistant in this way sends a strong message to the new dentist that you are serious about enabling their success.

2. Do regular case reviews and collaborate on case plans. This is where you get to really be involved as a mentor by reviewing the new dentist's cases and working with them on devising treatment plans. They need to be clear that this is not a matter of you checking up on them – this is about collaborating to achieve the best results for the patients and the practice. These meetings should happen at least once a week, and at the start you will be reviewing every treatment plan. Then, as the new doctor becomes more established, you'll just review the more involved cases.

3. Create a shared mindset around value. Not long after the new dentist has settled in, you need to move them beyond the day-to-day operations, and get them thinking about the bigger picture – in particular the three things that drive practice growth: retention, case acceptance and invitations. There are a number of educational sources to help you here, but no matter where you get this training, it is absolutely vital that you select one program and go together. Take it from someone who has had the pleasure of seeing these breakthroughs occur again and again – when you and your new dentist share this experience and are aligned on how to create value in the practice, that's when real acceleration happens.

4. Oversee their ongoing clinical education. Sure, it's probably true that it hasn't been long since your new dentist has seen the inside of a classroom, but you want to establish early on that you put a premium on continuing education and remaining current. To begin with, guide new associates toward practical courses presented by industry leaders. After all, it's one thing to learn in school how to do a restorative procedure; however, it's another thing to see how the masters do it with optimal efficiency. And later, when it comes to learning leading edge techniques as they emerge, it pays to attend together so you can be aligned about implementing in the practice.

Anyone who brings a new dentist aboard with this kind of strategic thinking, support and attention to detail is far more likely to enjoy a successful transition than someone who takes a more free-form approach. By nurturing this crucial process you're protecting your future. If you get this right, you'll take the risk out of the "human variable," and supercharge your transition to create lasting prosperity for everyone involved.


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