According to Weinstock, one of the biggest mistakes doctors make is being unwilling to pay for what they need. “If people feel like they’re compensated and appreciated, they’ll work a lot harder,” she points out. “If you find the right person and you’re not getting them because of a dollar an hour, that’s not worth it.” You’ll likely be able to find someone willing to sign on for that lower amount, “But you want to make sure you’re hiring the right person.”

Once you’ve found that person, remember that she’ll need continual training and feedback. “In essence, hiring is only part of what you need to do,” says Weinstock. “The other part is to give your new employee the tools to succeed.”

Laurie Hyland Robertson is a senior editor with Physicians Practice. She can be reached at lchrobertson@physicianspractice.com.

This article originally appeared in the June 2008 issue of Physicians Practice.