| Independent veterinary practice ownership can be professionally, financially, and personally rewarding. However, competing in the evolving industry landscape comes with challenges. Here are three keys to building and maintaining a successful independent veterinary practice:
1. Create a Positive Culture
- Communicate effectively - Use tools like Slack, email, or group messages for quick information, but address personal or performance issues face-to-face.
- Adopt a hospitality mindset - Develop active listening skills and interpret body language to better understand client and team behaviors.
- Maximize your team’s potential - Hire the right people and invest in their training for greater efficiency and revenue.
2. Embrace Technology
- Use client-facing solutions - Mobile apps, digital reminders, and online appointment platforms can help you stay connected with clients.
- Be nimble with new tech - Independent practices can quickly adopt new technologies. Train a few team members first, gather feedback, and then implement them with the entire practice.
3. Build Financial Relationships with Clients
- Offer tiered services - Presenting good, better, and best service options can make treatment discussions more flexible.
- Provide payment options - Financing, pet insurance, and payment plans can help ease clients' cost concerns.
The Bottom Line
Independent veterinary practices fulfill a vital need in this growing industry. By focusing on the unique benefits of independent ownership, you can set up your practice for long-term success.
Do you need help with finding associates to join your practice? I’ve been in the recruiting business for more than 30 years, and since 2020, I have submitted 575 veterinarians to 236 privately owned clinics. I understand the special requirements of finding the right doctor for private practices, and my team has consistently put our method to work for our clients, resulting in an 88 percent success rate in presenting quality candidates within the first 90 days of the recruitment process. Allow me the chance to explain how we can find the right match for you and your team. |
