Today we shine the spotlight on Lisa Emiliani, Senior Practice Management System specialist at the dentalcorp Support Centre. Lisa tells us about her decision to return to a role with dentalcorp, her high school sweetheart, and why we should never take life for granted.
Tell us about your background – how long have you been with dentalcorp and what were you doing before you joined?
I originally started with dentalcorp in 2015 as a Practice Manager and was in that role for four years before I left to pursue a new opportunity as a Regional Manager with a direct competitor. I quickly realized that wasn’t where I wanted to be and jumped at the chance to return to dentalcorp within a year when my current position as a Senior Practice Management System specialist became available. From that experience, I learned to always follow my instincts. It’s important to tune-into what feels right and be true to yourself.
I’ve been in the dental industry for 29 years, 19 at a pediatric dental practice, and as a PMS software trainer. I was ready to utilize my experience and knowledge in a different capacity, and this new role has been exactly that – extremely challenging and rewarding. dentalcorp’s values align with my work ethics: feeling supported, valued, and the autonomy to bring individual capabilities forward. Most importantly, dentalcorp has recognized that their team's mental well-being during these difficult times is of utmost importance. The provided support has made a lasting impact.
Can you tell us a little bit about your role on the team? What does a typical day look like?
My role as a Senior Practice Management System specialist and our team as a whole is new to dentalcorp. I am primarily responsible for upgrades and conversions. We are currently working on many different projects, but a recently completed project is our PMS How-To Guides that we created to better support our network of practices. Each day is unique, depending on what projects have been set forth. It’s rewarding to know that the support we provide from the Support Centre makes a difference for our practices and team members by adding ease and value for our practices and departments.
What are your aspirations for personal and professional growth? Do you have a 5-year plan?
Personal growth is always ongoing for me. You take the life lessons learned, move forward with gratitude, and expect nothing in return. That said, I’d love to own a Bed & Breakfast in Italy! But professionally, I’m eager to continue to grow in my new role with my team and bring all that we can offer to the next level. dentalcorp is growing rapidly, and there are many exciting opportunities to pursue. I work with such an amazing PMS/IT team, and I look forward to continuing my journey of learning, growing, and making a difference.
Tell us something about yourself that your co-workers would never guess?
I married my high school sweetheart. Together we have three sons, one daughter, one husky, three rescue cats, and a partridge in a pear tree!
Tell us about an experience you’ve had that’s really left an impact
I have a loved one in a long-term care home. It has been a real eye-opener, as I often reflect that the residents were once young and able to walk and live independently. Today, isolated due to the pandemic, they are lonely. I visit often, and it’s incredible how just a simple conversation or stroll makes their entire day. It has made me realize that we should all live our lives to the fullest when we can. It’s important not to take life for granted – live for the now, not yesterday, and not tomorrow.
What advice do you have for new team members joining dentalcorp's Support Centre?
You will have full autonomy to be the most authentic version of yourself. If you don't know something, it's okay to ask questions and let your vision and passion guide the way!
Tell us something funny that’s happened to you
On my most recent vacation, I wore a bathing suit cover-up with pineapples on it. And to my surprise, I was told by an American guest that a pineapple signifies being a swinger. I immediately ran back to my room, changed, and decided never to wear it again. Google it – it’s true!
