A sense of community is something we all strive for. Whether we are loud and boisterous or reserved and quiet, we all want to feel as though we belong somewhere. We want to feel that we are a part of something bigger than ourselves. I think many of us got into vet med because we… Read More
Team Culture
Merry Mentoring: Consider Giving the Gift of Time and Knowledge This Holiday Season
I like a Starbucks gift card as much as the next guy. I also like a new pair of gloves to keep as extras in the car. There are many small gifts you can give your employees and co-workers during this holiday season, but one stands out as the most valuable and rewarding of them… Read More
Don’t Waste Energy on the Negative
Once upon a time, working in veterinary medicine was regarded as a selfless profession. Everyone employed in the hospital knew at a young age that taking care of animals was their calling. We had more people than we needed to fill vacant jobs and had stacks of resumes from determined people wanting to get their… Read More
True Confessions of a Bottle Shaker
I’m a Certified Veterinary Practice Manager and I’ve been doing this for more years than I care to admit. I’m knowledgeable in most of the well-managed practices, I promise. You want to talk about my ACT or have me list my ABC products? Let’s do it – but there’s one exception: Hi, my name is… Read More
5 Ways to Keep Employees From Dreading Staff Meetings
Staff meetings. Easily one of the most underutilized and often dreaded of staff interactions. Many clinics don’t have staff meetings due to time, workload and staff compliance. Staff meetings are scheduled with intentions of being an open dialogue amongst the team. An inspiring, team-building, and open way to discuss issues in the clinic. With starry… Read More
An Open Letter to My Receptionists
Dear Receptionist, I swear I don’t hate you. I don’t find you annoying. I don’t think you are (insert whatever horrible thing you think about yourself here). The truth is, that I absolutely know you are doing the best you can in this moment. I absolutely know that you have one of the most difficult… Read More