Most key performance indicators (KPIs) we track in optometry, such as revenue or patient volume, are lagging indicators, meaning they reflect actions already taken — completing an exam or making a sale, for example. But what if you could focus on factors that drive those numbers in the first place? That’s where a great office culture, supported by ongoing training and education, becomes a game-changer. These are leading indicators — strategies that pave the way for stronger KPIs down the road.
When was the last time you took your team offsite for training? If it’s been a while, it might be time to explore how stepping away from the office can strengthen team cohesion and elevate your practice’s culture. Offsite training free from workplace distractions not only energizes your team but also fosters deeper collaboration and creates a sense of shared purpose, all of which translate into improved patient care and better business outcomes.
Here’s how to make it work:
- Map Out a Quarterly Plan: Determine where to go each quarter, what training topics you’ll cover and whether to involve external facilitators or speakers.
- Set Clear Goals for Each Event: Clarify what you want your team to gain from each offsite event, then hold a debrief afterward to discuss takeaways and practical applications.
- Compensate and Hold Team Members Accountable: From your managers to your technicians, ensuring your team is compensated for their time and held accountable for sharing their insights encourages active participation and shows that their development is valued.
- Use Scorecards and KPIs: Track goals and measure the impact of this training over time.
Here are a few ideas for quarterly offsites:
- Vision Expo: Gain insights into the latest trends in eye care while fostering team growth.
- Alliance Annual Meetings: Learn from industry leaders and develop new strategies.
- Peer or Study Groups: Exchange best practices and fresh ideas with other professionals.
- State Association Events: Engage with your local eye care community.
- Dinner Training: Speak to your lens rep about arranging a dinner session for your team that combines education with a relaxing environment.
Training isn’t just about learning new skills. It’s about fostering a culture of continuous improvement and collaboration. By taking a holistic approach, you demonstrate that growth is a core value of your practice.
Enhance Training With In-Office Sessions
While offsite training offers unique benefits, regular in-office sessions are just as important. These can be shorter, more frequent opportunities to reinforce skills, discuss new strategies or align on goals. Together, in-office and offsite training create a balanced approach to continuous learning and culture-building.
Real-World Application: Dr. C’s Practice
Let's see an example of how this plays out in the real world. Dr. C decided to prioritize offsite leadership training. He sent his managers to Vision Expo, study groups and an alliance meeting. Before each event, he outlined specific goals, including strategies to improve contact lens sales through the hand-off as well as more efficient scheduling. After the events, he held one-on-one meetings to review their takeaways and action plans.
Dr. C even used offsite events at the local bowling alley and Dave & Busters as a bonus for achieving practice goals. These trips didn’t include training; they were purely for team-building and celebrating their success together.
The result? Dr. C’s team returned energized and motivated to implement new strategies, which led to a noticeable increase in revenue and morale. The shared experience of learning and applying new ideas set the tone for ongoing collaboration and growth.
Whether it’s a training-focused offsite, a team-building outing or an in-office session, these events help you strengthen team dynamics and set a culture of continuous learning. Schedule your next offsite to invest in your team and your practice’s success.
