Finding Support as a Practice Manager

As rewarding as being a veterinary practice manager can be, it is not a role without challenges. As you juggle the responsibilities of overseeing the day-to-day operations, managing staff, and ensuring excellent patient care, it’s easy to feel overwhelmed. The pressure to meet business goals while maintaining a positive environment for both your clients and your employees can sometimes leave you feeling isolated, especially since you are often expected to be the glue that holds everything and everyone together. If you’re feeling the weight of the role and struggling with loneliness, know that you’re not alone. It’s important to reach out for support and take care of yourself as much as you take care of your practice.

1. Connect with Other Veterinary Practice Managers

Sometimes the best support comes from others who truly understand the challenges of your role. Other practice managers face similar struggles and can offer valuable advice, tips, and empathy. If you do not personally know any other practice managers, you can look for professional groups or associations that offer networking opportunities such as the American Veterinary Medical Association (AVMA) or Veterinary Hospital Managers Association (VHMA). Another option for finding support from your fellow peers is to join social media groups or online forums that are dedicated to veterinary practice management.

2. Seek Out a Mentor

If you are looking for more of a personal style of support – a mentorship can provide guidance, reassurance, and a sounding board for your concerns. Having this type of one-on-one support from someone who has been in your shoes and understands the nuances of the role can be a game changer. Some professional organizations such as the AVMA offer mentorship programs specifically for veterinary practice managers. These programs can pair you with someone who can offer structured support and career guidance.

3. Join Continuing Education Opportunities

Sometimes, feelings of being stuck and loneliness stem from a lack of professional growth or from facing challenges that seem insurmountable. Continuing education (CE) can reignite your passion for your role and help you feel more confident in your professional decisions. There are in-person workshops, webinars, and conferences that are aimed at veterinary management. These events often include opportunities to network with peers and learn about the best practices in the industry. Many veterinary business platforms, such as the AVMA and the VHMA, offer specialized online courses for practice managers to improve their skills in areas such as leadership, financial management, and team-building. You can learn new strategies for tactfully tackling common challenges, which can help alleviate feelings of being stuck.

4. Utilize Counseling Services

The pressures of being a practice manager can sometimes affect your mental and emotional well-being. While it is normal to feel isolated or overwhelmed, it is important to address these feelings before they impact your health or your professional performance. Platforms like BetterHelp offer convenient virtual therapy options. You can talk to a licensed professional without leaving the comfort of your own home or office. These services are discreet, flexible, and can help you navigate any stressors or personal challenges that might be affecting your work. Many veterinary practices provide Employee Assistance Programs (EAPs) that can help connect you to counselors, wellness resources, and/or support groups. If your practice offers this benefit, do not hesitate to utilize it.

5. Create a Supportive Work Environment

It’s worth remembering that support doesn’t just have to come from outside your practice. You can also foster a supportive culture within your veterinary team. Regularly check in with your team about their well-being and encourage open, honest communication about challenges or frustrations they are facing within the clinic. This can help reduce feelings of isolation among staff members and allow you to work together as a team to solve problems.

6. Set Boundaries & Practice Self-Care

All too often, practice managers take on too much themselves because they feel responsible for the success of their practice. But it’s important to set healthy boundaries and allow yourself time to recharge. In order to do this, it is important to learn to trust your team and delegate effectively. If there are aspects of your role that can be managed by others, don’t hesitate to pass them on. Whether it’s enjoying a hobby, exercising, or simply spending time with loved ones, make sure you’re carving out time for self-care. Without proper rest, you won’t be able to perform your best at work.

7. Find Support Outside of The Veterinary World

Sometimes, stepping outside of your immediate industry can provide a fresh perspective. Joining a peer group for managers in any industry can help you learn leadership strategies that you can adapt to your veterinary practice. Sometimes, stepping outside of the professional world completely is necessary and helpful, during times like this, it can help to seek support from loved ones such as friends or family.