Unlocking the Power of Personality in Your Practice

Running a successful orthodontic practice isn’t just about clinical skills—it’s about building a strong, cohesive team. Understanding personalities can be a game-changer when it comes to leadership, communication, and team dynamics. In the latest Hey Docs! Podcast episode, host Jill Allen sits down with Kimberly Collins, a leadership coach and expert in personality systems, to discuss how tools like the Myers-Briggs Type Indicator (MBTI) and Enneagram can transform workplace culture.

Why Personality Tests Matter in Orthodontics

Personality assessments aren’t just buzzwords—they’re powerful tools that provide insight into how people think, work, and communicate.

🔹 MBTI: Breaks down preferences in four key areas, helping teams understand decision-making styles and work approaches.
🔹 Enneagram: Digs deeper into core motivations and behaviors, uncovering what drives each team member.

Kimberly shares how these tools can help foster self-awareness, improve leadership, and create a workplace where everyone thrives.

How Personality Testing Transforms Team Dynamics

For orthodontic practice owners and managers, understanding individual strengths and preferences can be the key to smoother operations. Here’s how:

✔️ Better Communication: Tailor conversations based on how team members process information.
✔️ Stronger Leadership: Adapt management styles to fit different personality types.
✔️ Improved Team Collaboration: Play to each person’s strengths for a more productive, engaged team.

Jill and Kimberly emphasize that leaders who understand their own personality styles first can set the tone for a more connected, high-performing team.

Setting Your Team Up for Success

The golden rule? Personality tests should never be used for hiring decisions. Instead, they should be a tool for growth, learning, and creating a psychologically safe workplace where everyone feels valued.

💡 Key Takeaway: When introduced the right way, personality assessments can be a game-changer in team development, helping orthodontic practices function more efficiently while fostering a positive, collaborative culture.