BizQuiz: Are you a great employee? (Answer 4c)
Taking the BizQuiz? This is the answer to Question 4.
4) C—No way!
Venting frustration is natural, but it’s no solution. And if you duck shifts with a doctor who doesn’t understand his or her vocabulary is undermining client education, you’re just passing on the problem to another hapless coworker—and hurting pets. When you have a problem with a doctor—or any team member—you must take the initiative to solve it, says Debbie Allaben Gair, CVPM, a Firstline Editorial Advisory Board member and owner of Bridging the Gap in Sparta, Mich. In the situation of a veterinarian who doesn’t communicate effectively, it’s time to engage that doctor in a conversation that starts like this: “Could you say that statement in a way I could more easily understand so I can be most effective in working with you and communicating your recommendations to clients.” By focusing on the idea of better serving clients and patients, you’re more likely to reach a better understanding.
Remember that some veterinarians might not even realize their word choice is a challenge—medical terminology seems natural to them. They’ll appreciate you bringing the issue to light.
