Strategy: Train from the Ground Up

My philosophy for building a highly productive team starts with hiring people with no dental technology experience. They’re fresh, green and eager to learn. I don’t need to break any bad habits they might have learned at another lab and can train them to our standards.

I also prefer to hire people with hobbies that would transfer well into the lab, like artists or gamers. For example, my most recent hire, Lexie, is a tattoo artist; I was so impressed by the intricacies of her tattoo work and knew she could have the potential to make a great ceramist.

I dedicate time each day for hands-on training of new hires, either by working with them one on one or having another technician show them the ropes. For example, I spent a day teaching Lexie model work, the basics of anatomy and dental terminology. I also had my son, Cameron, spend a few days teaching her about ceramics.

Another key to building a good team and maximizing productivity...