Follow Through Matters
Happy Monday! Thank you if you opened this email to read today’s Pro Tip. This one is reflective of one of my pet peeves. I’m guessing however that those who are guilty of what I am about to discuss will not read this.
For those who are, let me explain. . .
I receive LOTS of emails including junk and things that I no longer am interested in (I’m trying to get better about unsubscribing and you should too) and questions from doctors ranging from how to compensate new associates to my thoughts on EHR and virtual help. Some questions involve research while others are pretty straightforward. In any event, I respond in a timely manner, even if it is only to say “I need to look into this and get back to you.” Acknowledging the doctor and their question is important to me.
What often happens after that is frustrating. . . radio silence. Not a thank you, no additional question, NOTHING, so I follow up a few days later with a “just making sure you saw my answer to your question from (the date).” This usually prompts a response (but not always).
The same has happened recently with a multi-doctor practice who requested private consulting. A meeting was canceled at the last minute (also not my favorite as it is the equivalent of a no-show patient) and then there is no response to my proposed reschedule dates and times. Again, frustrating.
Long story short, follow through matters. Responses are important and show respect and recognition to the other person involved in the conversation. A thumbs up emoji, thank you or let me check the schedule and get back to you by Thursday (setting yourself a reminder to actually do it) will suffice. This applies to everyone you communicate with but is greatly appreciated by your practice consultant.
