Harnessing the Power of the Huddle
Imagine a team where every player has a crucial role in building a cohesive and well-orchestrated unit. A team where direction, resources, and drive provide an experience that produces a loyal following. A team whose winning strategy builds morale and focuses on touchdowns, not fumbles.
While all these attributes could be said about a favorite football team, they can also apply to a veterinary team. What else does America's most popular sport have in common with life in a veterinary practice?
A dedicated coach
A practice manager's job is very much like a football coach: to find the right people and put them in the right positions to make sure the practice is successful. It’s knowing when to boost the team’s morale or time to lay down some hard truths about performance. It’s knowing when to bench certain players and knowing when it’s time to remind the team why they are all here. They are responsible for communicating in a way that ensures everyone knows the end goal - to help people and their pets. All positions don’t have to like each other, but at the end of the day, they must play well together.
A huddle can be a game-changer
Morning huddles are key to ensure communication is solid. They allow a quick run-down of the day, determine which players are needed where, and allow the players to rally together with some team spirit. There will be days when team morale may be a little lackluster. This is why it is crucial for the coach to know their team and what it takes to keep them motivated. Some days the coach will bring the energy and positivity for the day. On other days, different players will fill that space as needed. But at the end of the day, everyone works together towards a common goal.
Train, train, train
Veterinary medicine has a history of throwing new employees in. Sink or swim. While the ability to persevere is needed, the coach’s job is to set up the players for success. Let’s talk training. Creating an onboarding and training program is key to having the team be the best they can be. Utilizing a mix of online and in-clinic training programs will ensure players feel confident in their role. Learning never stops. Making sure the team has access to continuing education allows them to grow and push for success.
Practice makes perfect
The worst mistake a team can make is to be unprepared. Whether facing an emergency surgery, a client who can’t pay, or a patient crashing, there must be a game plan. The easiest way to be prepared is to set up plays. Repeating plays, policies and procedures allows players to have clear guidelines and therefore avoid playing out of bounds. Practicing for emergencies and codes results in a team who stays calm in stressful times. Everyone needs to know where they should be and what their role is so that time isn’t wasted panicking. At the end of any stressful event, it is beneficial to do an impromptu huddle to discuss ways to improve and what went well.
Leaders can encourage, support, and set their team for success. Their focus should always be on what is best for the team and their common purpose: helping pets, people, and each other. A team who has huddled, trained, and practiced will play with passion, direction and purpose. They may even score a touchdown.
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