4 Ways to Skyrocket Efficiency in Your Practices
Updated: Dec 30, 2023
Keeping your practice operating is one thing. Keeping it running like a well-oiled machine is another – especially given the hectic and often chaotic nature of the veterinary industry. Any practice owner knows that the key to long-term, sustainable success and future growth is maximizing efficiency. Easier said than done, right? Not if you take the right approach. To follow are four simple strategies that you can employ today that will produce dividends for many years to come.
Use technology to your advantage
Would you bail out a boat with a spoon if you had a bucket? Of course not! So, why would you continue to rely on slow, outdated and antiquated tools and processes to run your practice? We are living in an exciting age where technology is evolving and improving at breakneck speed. Take advantage of what’s available to you, whether it’s VoIP phone service, scheduling software, billing programs or something else. It may require an investment upfront, but the time and effort you and your team will save will far outweigh the cost.
Hire for culture
It’s a simple fact that people who work well together tend to be more efficient and productive. Therefore, creating synergy amongst your team can do wonders for the way your practice operates and performs. The best way to accomplish this is to hire employees who will fit well with your practice culture. Remember, just because someone looks great on paper, doesn’t mean he or she will get along with other members of the team. Clinical skills are important, but you can’t train for character, so keep that in mind when you are hiring.
Train thoroughly, early and often
You can’t expect your employees to perform at their best if they don’t have a clear and accurate understanding of what their job duties are. As such, comprehensive onboarding and thorough ongoing training should be a priority. And don’t forget the importance of mission and vision. Getting and keeping employees up to speed on your practice culture is just as important as making sure they’re following your policies and procedures. Lastly, good training gives employees confidence and makes them feel empowered, which can help to reduce turnover.
Reduce clutter and organize.
Research shows that there is a direct correlation between clutter and productivity. In fact, according to The National Association of Professional Organizations, the average person wastes more than 4 hours a week searching for paperwork. Imagine what your team could accomplish if they weren’t wasting half a workday every week chasing their tails (no pun intended). Besides, not only does a messy office impact your team’s ability to carry out their day to day workload with ease, but it also sends a poor impression to your clients. You can avoid all of this by keeping your office organized and minimizing paperwork as much as possible.
A practice that isn’t operating efficiently is undoubtedly losing profits as a result. If you feel as though you have lost control or you’ve noticed that your team is constantly spinning their wheels but not getting anywhere, give the four tips above a try. You might be surprised at how quickly things turn around.
Our Tips, Tricks, and Expert Advice
How can technology improve efficiency in your veterinary practice?
By leveraging technology such as scheduling software, billing programs, and VoIP phone service, practices can streamline processes and save time, boosting efficiency.
Why is hiring for culture important to increase efficiency?
Hiring for culture ensures that employees work well together, fostering synergy and increasing productivity and efficiency in the practice.
How does thorough training contribute to practice efficiency?
Thorough training ensures employees clearly understand their roles, boosts confidence, reduces turnover, and improves overall practice efficiency.
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