Veterinary professionals are often motivated by their love of animals and desire to help animals and their owners, which can contribute to compassion satisfaction. Despite the long hours, sometimes sad outcomes, high level of responsibility, and occasional bad behavior from clients, the field continues to attract kind and dedicated individuals. Inspirational leaders can build on the profession’s inherent upsides to create even better outcomes for team members. As a veterinarian, you are a leader in your practice, even if you are not an owner. Your moods, nonverbal communication, and degree of empathy can all affect the team. Everyone will have a better experience when you can inspire and engage them. Remember: Leaders model the way.
Leading by Example
You can lead by example to model a good work ethic, authentic caring, and a positive attitude for your team. You can also help ensure that staff members have the freedom to choose how to produce the expected outcomes, which helps build self-confidence, competence, and satisfaction in their work. Even if the practice itself doesn’t offer a safe place for people to share their views, you can individually offer psychological safety to your co-workers so they feel heard and valued. In addition, you can work to improve your practice’s culture.
Supporting Engagement
Being engaged at work means having a strong emotional connection to your job, team, and company, and believing that your effort makes a positive difference. You are motivated to do your best work because it matters, not just for a paycheck. The 2026 State of the Global Workplace report by Gallup showed that highly engaged teams outperform their peers in profitability by 21%. Unfortunately, the report also showed high levels of burnout and disengagement, with only 31% of workers in the U.S. being engaged. Engaged employees are more likely to look forward to work, feel their contributions matter, and see their role as meaningful. They show up with energy, creativity, and a desire to go above and beyond.
Leaders are critical in inspiring and engaging team members and helping them thrive at work. Research has shown that thriving employees have managers who are invested in their success. Leaders of thriving teams support their employees’ success, have empathy, and are approachable.
Final Thoughts
Most Millennial and Gen-Z employees want to make a positive difference in the world, and they are inspired by stories that illustrate how their work matters. Celebrating small wins, showing appreciation for each team member’s contribution, and supporting lifetime learning go a long way with these team members. Tell the stories that illustrate how the practice is living its values and mission. As a leader that inspires your people, you can elevate your team’s satisfaction and your practice’s performance.
Related Reading
- Business Briefs: Implementing Lasting Change in Your Practice
- Business Briefs: How to Deliver Effective Feedback in Equine Practice
- The Business of Practice: How Equine Veterinarians Can Build Confidence
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