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Actions and Words are Transformative and Enduring

By Jim Nash posted 12-29-2018 10:08

  

As we wrap up this holiday season, I had the opportunity to reflect on some of the great gifts I’ve received. Lots of good stuff gifted by thoughtful friends and family which I truly appreciate. I realize however, that gifts are tokens of friendship, fondness and appreciation, but they are rarely transformative. I realized instead that actions and words are transformative and enduring.

Recently dvm360 and VHMA announced the Practice Manager of the Year (PMOY). Before making a decision, we pored over many applications, identified 10 finalists and ultimately named Angelina Morgan, CVPM, the PMOY.

The application narratives highlighted practice challenges that the applicants successfully confronted. Although I have been in the industry for many years, the responses were insightful, inventive and, in some cases, unconventional. I am inspired by the work of these candidates which is truly transformative and will leave an enduring impact on their practices.

I compiled some of the key points gleaned from this year’s applications. I found them compelling and I hope you do too:

Trigger good performance

Your staff has a mixed bag of strengths and weaknesses. Not all strengths --- and weakness --- are obvious. Pay close attention to an employee’s actions and words to develop a deeper understanding of what she or he is capable of. Once a manager has gained insights into the raw materials, the next step is to foster the emergence of innate talent. Recognition and support are powerful triggers.

Be bold and look outside the box

Managers who are willing to think outside the box and deviate from popular opinion can provoke criticism form peers. However, it is not uncommon for innovative thinkers, if they have the confidence to push their ideas forward, to see their creativity result in positive outcomes. Business practices need not always conform to “this is how it has always been done.” Shaking up the status quo can be good for morale and business.

Own your decisions

Professionals trust themselves to make informed decisions. Stand behind and take responsibility for your decisions. You may not be 100 percent right all the time, but there are lessons to be learned from being wrong too.

You can do right by patients and clients and be sustainable

Providing products and services at a price point that will ensure client compliance and the well-being of the patient is paramount to the well-being of a veterinary practice. In reality, clients may not have the financial resources to be compliant with a practice’s recommendations. Managers who consider introducing strategies like bundling services and other innovative approaches can be instrumental in benefiting the client, patient and the practice.

Know the difference between being a manager and being a leader

Outstanding managers know that they must be good leaders. Managers have people who work for them. Leaders have people who follow them. It’s critical to learn how to excel as both a manager and leader.

And there you have it…my gift to you …courtesy of our PMOY and finalists.

As we enter 2019, The Year of the Member, we will spotlight VHMA members who will share their unique perspectives on how they have advanced as managers and contributed to the profession, as well as how they live the VHMA Life.

My best to you and your families. Wishing your health, happiness, prosperity and opportunity in 2019!

Jim Nash, MHA, CVPM
VHMA President

 

 

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