Accountability is Your New Best Friend
Why is nobody taking care of the clippers?
Last week it took 20 minutes to shave a cat spay.
20 minutes, and I’m not exaggerating.
It took ten minutes of searching for one sharp blade and one working set of clippers and five minutes shaving the five-pound cat with the sharpest blades that could be found and weren’t that sharp.
So why are there no working clippers?
Here’s the story I was told.
It’s because “everyone” is responsible for the clippers, which basically means “nobody” is.
Houston, we have a problem, and it’s called a lack of accountability.
But this clipper situation is just one symptom of a much bigger problem.
So, let’s talk about it.
If you're like most people, you probably struggle with getting your team to consistently meet expectations and perform at their best, which can be a real head-scratcher, right?
Well, I have good news for you: the key to overcoming this challenge is all about creating a culture of accountability in your practice.
Now, I know what you’re thinking - "accountability" sounds like a buzzkill, often associated with words like blame, punishment, and conflict.
But here's the thing: true accountability isn't about pointing fingers or making people feel bad.
What it’s really about is creating a supportive environment where everyone feels empowered to take responsibility for their actions and work together towards a common goal.
So, stop acting like it’s a bad thing when you should want it to become your New. Best. Friend.
When you have a culture of accountability in your vet practice, magic happens.
Real magic.
It’s jaw-dropping magic.
Your team members will feel more engaged and motivated because they are clear on their role and understand how their individual efforts contribute to the practice's overall success.
Communication will improve because expectations are crystal clear, and everyone is getting regular feedback.
Plus, accountability fosters trust, respect, and collaboration among your team at every level.
All this improvement creates more efficiency, empowered employees, and reduces turnover, which is great for the business.
Let me repeat that... More Accountability = Happy Team = Less Turnover = More productivity = Happier Boss.
Boom.
On the flip side, let’s look at what happens when accountability is lacking because that gets messy fast.
Employees will disengage and start slacking off because they're not sure what's expected of them.
Miscommunication and conflict will pop up left and right because employees feel unsupported and confused about their roles and how to succeed.
While the team may band together for survival, gossip will flourish, and a You vs. Us culture will emerge.
And let's be real, when that happens, not only will you feel like an outsider, but also a baby-sitter as you keep having to direct people on how to do their jobs.
The business will take a hit because of the resulting inefficiency, poor communication, and a frustrated team that leaves sooner.
In other words, No Accountability = Disengaged Team = More Turnover = Unhappy clients = More Patient Risk = Frustrated Boss (I expanded a little).
Ouch.
Remember, accountability isn't about creating tension or conflict - it's about empowering your team to take ownership of their work and collaborate to achieve your practice's goals.
When you make accountability a core part of your practice's culture, you'll be amazed at how your team thrives and your practice succeeds.
So, how can you create a culture of accountability in your vet practice?
It’s never too late, you can start today! In the next blog, we’re discussing how to do it, so follow me there, because - as with any positive change that matters - this will take work and intention.
If you need help with an accountability problem, please reach out to me – Reality Vet can help!
Need help with your accountability culture? Download this free digital workbook today.
