
Knowledge and skills aren't always enough.
In the course of the late Bob Levoy's career, he conducted thousands of management seminars for business and professional groups, Fortune 500 companies, and leading colleges and universities throughout North America and overseas. Among them were hundreds of veterinary medical associations. Bob holds three degrees from the University of Connecticut and Columbia University and has written seven best-selling books including 101 Secrets of a High Performance Veterinary Practice and 222 Secrets of Hiring, Managing and Retaining Great Employees in Healthcare Practices. Bob hosted a jazz radio program in the New York market (as Bob Collins) for more than 12 years and was a volunteer reader for Recordings for the Blind and Dyslexic for more than 20 years. He passed away in 2014.
Knowledge and skills aren't always enough.
Here's a shorter version of an employee survey designed to explore employee morale and job satisfaction.
Survey your staff and see what your team really thinks about your practice.
Just because you've never heard complaints doesn't mean everyone is happy. Find your fakes and listen to what your team has to say.
Find out what team members are saying behind your back-and use their comments to create a happier, more productive workplace.
Cheap advertising-and improved client communication-is just a click away.
A new study shows that high-pressure scare tactics don't work. A positive approach, however, yields results.
What to do with an overcompensated employee
Every one of your team members might work hard, but taking a one-size-fits-all approach to doling out raises isn't fair to your best performers. So pump up your superstars' salaries by using one of these proven strategies instead.
Without both characteristics, your veterinary practice will struggle to remain profitable.
No interaction with your staff is insignificant. Give your full effort every day to keep team members happy and working hard.
When your clients need to wait beyond their appointment time, don't leave them in the cold.
When the economy improves, valuable team members may head for friendlier waters. It's up to you to show them why they should stay with your practice.
Clear your throat, put on your headphones, and make your voice heard. Appearing on the radio can educate pet owners and attract new clients.
Some human hospitals have come up with a new way for doctors to meet prospective clients. Could it work for your veterinary practice?
Don't dole out harsh reprimands or, worse, ignore the problem. Keep team members in line-and make sure you're being fair.
Be persuasive, but don't push too hard. Otherwise, you run the risk of driving your clients away.
Checking up on your patients can strengthen your bond between with clients-and keep your patients healthy.
Work to eliminate these schedule gaps and wasted opportunities for revenue.
Not getting the results you'd like from your own employee search? An employee referral program might help you build your dream team.
Critical interactions impact client loyalty and practice growth.
Everyone affected by a decision should be involved in the process.
Follow up on defections.
Most veterinary clients expect a brief wait. But keep them waiting too long and you risk losing their business.
Essential characteristics for associates hoping to get their own practice off the ground.
Pushy team members can scare clients away with heavy-handed phone tactics.
A new era in the medical profession is here. Is your veterinary practice ready for it?
Your practice's reputation is crucial. Make sure clients are hearing good things.
Do your knees knock at the mere thought of an upcoming speaking engagement? Follow this advice.
It can be intimidating, but public speaking makes you more a more visible and successful veterinarian.