Columns

One early morning recently, I went to my physician’s office for a quick blood draw. As I sat waiting, I realized I had a front-row seat on the awakening practice.

I watched, fascinated, as the doctors and nurses came into the clinic and began their day. It was like sneaking backstage before the curtain goes up! I got to see the “people” behind the professional faces.

When I mention that I teach veterinary students client communications and professional skills, people look at me like my dog Sadie zeros in on voles—tilted heads, puzzled eyes, and all. Many people can’t imagine why such considerate professionals as veterinarians would need to be taught to converse. It’s not until I explain that I also train students to conduct humane euthanasia* that a person will solemnly nod, often sharing a story of saying goodbye to a beloved pet.

As I visit practices and talk with veterinarians, practice managers, and team leaders, I hear many colleagues speak of our shared commitment to practicing the best possible medicine and to working hard to help each other in that process. If we aren’t working well together as a health care team, how can we hope to achieve unparalleled positive clinical results?

Leadership is the potential to influence coworkers in a dynamic way—to move them toward a healthier, more productive form of practice. On days when everything seems to go wrong, including misunderstandings, missteps, and mayhem, you can make a choice to rise above the fray.