Your practice can reach new heights if you leave your ego at the door and start managing your staff with humility, collaboration and open communication.
As a practice management coach for more than 25 years, I’ve seen countless practices rise and fall, and one of the most significant factors in determining their trajectory is how well the team is managed. Running a successful chiropractic practice isn’t just about having the best adjustment techniques or the most advanced equipment; it’s about leading a cohesive team and managing your staff effectively. And when it comes to effective leadership, there’s one thing you must do from the start: check your ego at the door.
The ego trap
In the high-stakes world of healthcare, where lives and well-being are on the line, it’s easy for DCs to feel like the captain of the ship, steering their team through rough waters. However, this mindset can quickly devolve into an ego-driven leadership style that alienates staff, fosters resentment and ultimately diminishes the quality of patient care.
An ego-driven leader may resist feedback, refuse to delegate and demand perfection from their staff without providing the necessary support or resources. These behaviors can create a toxic work environment where team members feel undervalued and overworked, leading to high turnover rates and low morale.
Embrace humility and collaboration
The antidote to ego-driven leadership is humility and collaboration. As a leader, it’s crucial to recognize that you don’t have all the answers. Your staff —whether they’re front desk assistants, chiropractic assistants or fellow doctors— are valuable contributors to your practice’s success. They bring unique perspectives and skills that can help your practice thrive if you’re willing to listen and collaborate.
Humility doesn’t mean diminishing your role as a leader. Instead, it means acknowledging that leadership is about empowering others. Effectively managing your staff is about creating an environment where everyone feels heard, respected and motivated to contribute their best work. When your team knows that their input is valued, they’re more likely to take ownership of their roles and go the extra mile for your patients.
The power of delegation
One of the most significant ways to check your ego is by mastering the art of delegation. As a DC, your expertise lies in providing patient care, not in micromanaging every aspect of your practice. Trusting your staff to handle administrative tasks, patient follow-ups and other non-clinical duties frees you to focus on what you do best.
Managing your staff by delegating key responsibilities also shows your team that you believe in their abilities. It’s a powerful way to build confidence and encourage professional growth within your practice. When team members are given the opportunity to take on new responsibilities, they become more invested in the practice’s success.
Encourage open communication
Another essential aspect of managing your staff is fostering open communication. Encourage your team to share their thoughts, concerns and ideas without fear of retribution. Regular staff meetings, one-on-one check-ins and anonymous feedback channels are all effective ways to keep lines of communication open.
Remember, constructive feedback goes both ways. As a leader, be open to receiving feedback on your performance as well. This willingness to listen and adapt demonstrates that you’re committed to continuous improvement—not just for your practice, but for yourself as a leader.
Lead with empathy, not ego
The most effective leaders are those who lead with empathy, not ego. When you prioritize the well-being and professional development of your staff, you create a positive work environment where everyone can thrive. In turn, your patients will receive the highest level of care, and your practice will grow stronger every day.
Final thoughts on managing your staff
So, the next time you walk into your practice, remember to leave your ego at the door. By managing your staff with humility, collaboration and open communication, your practice will reach new heights.
Mark Sanna, DC, ACRB Level II, FICC, is the CEO of Breakthrough Coaching. He is a Board member of the Foundation for Chiropractic Progress, a member of the Chiropractic Summit and a member of the Chiropractic Future Strategic Plan Leadership Committee. To learn more, visit mybreakthrough.com. He is the author of Cracking the Code: Marketing Chiropractic—How Chiropractors Align Spines and Minds, available on Amazon.com.
