Many optometrists excel in patient care but struggle with the business side of their practice. They see the business side as a necessary evil instead of an opportunity. However, without leadership, clear strategic goals, and a strong team, the business suffers and so does patient care. It’s challenging to provide the highest quality of care when the practice finances become a limiting factor. Shifting your mindset from “doctor” to “CEO” could be the change that benefits everyone!
• Mindset. Think of yourself as an entrepreneur first and an optometrist second.
If executed correctly, this will free you to spend more time on patient care.
• Delegation. Surround yourself with capable team members, so you can delegate responsibilities. Also, communicate with them frequently.
The CEO model does not require you to do everything, it requires you to ensure everything gets done.
• Empowerment. Leaders must understand when to exert control and when to relinquish it. If you’ve hired competent employees and trained them, don’t limit their contributions by micromanaging them.
• Accountability. Emphasizing the importance of this can be as simple as scheduling time to meet with employees, so they can give status updates on their goals and responsibilities. OM
