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When a dental practice's phone rings, the goal should be to answer within two rings and be professional. 

However, phone etiquette can be disregarded as necessary, especially when the office gets busy or there are many moving parts to a successful day at the dental office. 

This, in turn, can give callers, particularly potential patients, a negative first impression of a dental practice.

Dental receptionists answering the phone are likely to be will multitasking.

When a call comes in, there may be patients in the reception area, at checkout, or approaching the front desk for assistance. 

In this article, we have many tips for dental receptionists for answering the phone.  

Let's get started. . . 

How Should a Dental Receptionist Answer the Phone?

Here are a few tips to consider when answering the phone as a dental receptionist: 

1. Smile: Before you pick up the phone, smile. 

Why? 

Because when you smile from the inside out, it can not only be seen by the patients waiting in the waiting room, but surprisingly it can also be heard in the town that you use when answering the phone. This can go a long way in connecting with new and returning patients. 

2. Respond: Respond in a regular, courteous manner. Have ideas and scripts in hand that are positive and support the customer service aspect of being a dental receptionist. 

Why? 

Because when consistency and predictability in how you respond to those who are calling into the dental office can be one of the most important tips you can use and implement when answering the phone as a receptionist. On the one hand, it helps the caller know you are ready to help them with their need, and on the other hand, it helps you know what to say or what you can offer patients calling in for both frequently asked questions and or requests. 

3. Make a Note: Make a note of the caller's name and use it frequently.

Why? 

Because name recognition and use can help a patient who is calling in feel heard and seen. 

4. Offer: Offer an appointment. 

Why? 

Because offering an appointment can help a patient be seen and meet their oral health needs. If you choose to offer two days or times, it can also help a patient feel empowered through choices. 

5. Hold message: Consider having an excellent message on hold service for those few occasions when you do need to put a caller on hold.

Why? 

Because being on hold can be challenging to patients who call in. having an excellent message that offers great value and information about your office to patients can help make the waiting process a little easier. 

More Information

Dental Front Office Receptionist Tips

40 Questions You Might Be Asked in an Interview for a Dental Receptionist Position?

Dental Receptionist Skills Checklist 

Dental Receptionist Working Interview

Thank You Letter After Interview for Dental Front Office Receptionist

 

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