Today was my first day at the orthodontic office. It was overwhelming and exciting and exhausting and frustrating and fun all at the same time. I knew working at a new office would be different from working at my dad's, but I had no idea just how different it could be. Just like pretty much everything else I've encountered in New York, they do things completely differently than what I was used to in Utah. I am so lost there, I swear you would never know I've been doing this for four years and have pretty much mastered everything at another office.
But, having said that, it really wasn't bad. I still possess the basic knowledge and skills to do the job. So while I've got a ton to learn about their software, policies, procedures, instruments, materials and employees, I've still got all the basic principles down and I'm sure I'll pick up the details quickly enough. And though some of the girls were totally unfriendly and no help at all, a lot of them were so nice, friendly and willing to teach me things.
And now a little note for all you lovely SmilePerfect girls.
I just have to let you know, you have the best job ever!!! Holy cow, you do not even know how good you have it. That job is amazing. I always loved it, but I didn't fully appreciate it until I had something to compare it to. And the thing is, the office I started at today is seriously the most successful, largest practice in Manhattan, and is supposed to be known for a really positive experience and good customer service. They are great, don't get me wrong, but honestly, they don't even compare.
At SmilePerfect, there is such a great feeling and everyone works together so well, gets along and is so friendly and nice. That is a huge blessing. Having staff huddle every morning, all the free lunches and treats brought in, and staff meetings and play days and showers and parties together, the way we welcome and integrate new employees into the team and train them, how we emphasize being a team and working together and helping each other out all the time, everyone getting along and actually being friends outside of work... all of that is so incredibly unique.
And the way we treat the patients, how we emphasize customer service and being friendly and going the extra mile, all our contests and the warm chocolate chip cookies, the x-box and gameboys, the drink fridge, movie tickets, singing at debonding... the list goes on and on. I didn't realize how unique our office was until now.
If you took the SmilePerfect practice and plopped it down in the middle of Manhattan, people wouldn't know what to do with themselves they'd be so blown away. Honestly, people would be absolutely floored. It is amazing. I'm not advertising SmilePerfect, I'm just reflecting on observations and realizing how amazing it is. I didn't even realize it till I saw something different.
Anyway, love your job and be grateful because it's the best!! I miss it and I miss all of you! (Employees past and present!) You girls are the best. After all the time and experiences we've shared and after helping each other in working for a common goal, you are some of my closest friends. I just wanted to thank all of you for touching my life for good and for being part of the SmilePerfect team. I learned things from the experience of being part of that team that will stick with me and help me be successful for the rest of my life.
