I remember the day I was promoted to be a veterinary practice manager. I had a big grin on my face and my head in clouds, and I thought my hard work, initiative and enthusiasm didn’t go unnoticed. My co-workers liked me, and I had created many friendships over the years. And now, I got a nice raise and a new nametag.
I beamed as the announcement was made. However, my smile faded as I noticed whispering, eye rolls and an angry face. Within a week, I realized I had encountered uncharted territory. I felt utterly alone, craving advice and guidance.
No matter how experienced you are, you might think you took a wrong turn, that a policy was written only to check a box and that everyone is plotting against you.
Veterinary practice leaders sometimes feel lonely and desperately search for advice and understanding. There’s a good chance someone else has been where you are, encountered the same problems and can help you. But where can you find the support you need?
Friends
Some people turn to those close to them emotionally. You might vent to a friend who is a great listener and can deliver a fresh perspective. However, ensure your friend isn’t a co-worker and doesn’t know the people at your clinic. Remember that a friend’s expertise and experience will limit any answers you get.
Organizations
I like safely connecting with others in the same or a similar position. If you are a practice manager, you might find the Veterinary Hospital Managers Association to be a great place to bounce around ideas and talk about issues. Online gatherings can be effective outlets for you, too, but live events always supersede the virtual experience. Other community groups to consider are Veterinary Growth Partners and Veterinary Management Groups.
Business Experts
A business adviser might be the answer if you’re not a fan of group sessions and you prefer a private approach to guide you to your goals. Look for someone with experience in veterinary management. Advisers can provide valuable feedback, suggest ideas you hadn’t thought of and point out the bigger picture. An adviser isn’t someone you always want to take your side. You want them to provide candid viewpoints. Where can you find a qualified adviser? Check out VetPartners at vetpartners.org. (Full disclosure: I am a VetPartners member.)
Mentors
Mentorship involves an experienced individual sharing knowledge, insights and expertise. The relationship can be crucial for professional development, helping you navigate challenges, make informed decisions and, ultimately, achieve your goals. Do you have someone you look up to? Who do you believe in? Sometimes, you just have to ask.
Conferences
Veterinary national conferences are full of educational sessions. The energy of a live meeting and the ideas you carry out the door are endless. For me, the best ideas and eye-opening moments happen over lunch with a stranger, during chitchat with a person sitting in a lecture room or even when standing in line for a concert. I recommend conferences such as VMX and WVC. If you’re not a fan of huge crowds, check out smaller conferences, such as Fetch, Uncharted and the Veterinary Innovation Summit, or attend a local veterinary meeting.
Podcasts
The nice thing about podcasts is you can take them with you. You can listen to them on the plane, on the way to work or when preparing dinner. Whatever works for you. You can choose from seemingly endless recordings. Some are specific, like “Purr Podcast,” which is best for feline practitioners, “Vet School Unleashed,” for veterinary students, and “Manager to Manager,” for — you guessed it — practice managers.
Books
If you dream about practice ownership, I recommend “The E-Myth Manager” by Micheal E. Gerber. Also, check out “Rocket Fuel” by Gino Wickman and Mark C. Winters. If you’re a practice owner or manager, consider Wickman’s “Traction” and “Practice Made Perfect” by veterinarian Dr. Marsha L. Heinke. For leaders, you won’t go wrong with “The 5 Languages of Appreciation in the Workplace” and “The Dream Manager.”
Blogs and Magazines
Books are great, but blogs, podcasts and magazines are the best way to stay current on timely information. Hot topics and fresh ideas can bring you and your veterinary team new perspectives. Sign up for blogs, newsletters and magazines so they are delivered straight to your inbox. That way, you can access them anytime, anywhere.
Online Classes
Continuing education is essential. Many organizations offer free or discounted online courses, and some veterinary conferences provide an online option. In addition, many vendors and practice management software providers promote educational courses. If you are craving for education on steroids, check out NAVC’s VetFolio.
The next time you think you took a wrong turn, feel a policy was written only to check a box or fear everyone is plotting against you, take a deep breath and, instead of appearing lost and lonely, reach out. You can get in touch with your community, a book filled with answers or an adviser.
There’s no need to reinvent the wheel. Somebody has walked in your shoes, encountered the same problems and made similar mistakes. They will likely tell you about those moments and how they nailed the issues.