In this podcast episode, we delve into the crucial process of setting and maintaining goals for the upcoming year. While financial considerations often dominate the discussion, this episode sheds light on the equally vital operational aspects that need the same attention. It is important to examine staffing levels, consider adding services, and stay attuned to changes in the community. Effective planning requires dedicated time to ensure the successful implementation of goals, and more importantly needs the buy-in and collaboration of the team.

Today's guest is Meghan Bingham, a CVPM in Houston. Meghan started out in a summer job in her neighborhood clinic, fell in love with veterinary medicine, and worked her way through all the areas up to manager. She has helped to grow the clinic from a one doctor to a twelve doctor practice and has held every position except veterinarian. She was also elected into VHMA's Emerging Leaders and has served as Director for the VHMA board since 2011.

Show Notes:

[2:58] - Once the budget is out of the way, Megan sets the tone of goal setting by picking a "word of the year." It's useful to have a focus.

[4:07] - Having a plan and an accountability partner are important for Megan's goal setting.

[5:09] - Getting a team's buy-in makes a difference in what goals will be successfully met.

[6:56] - A problem is not just one person's problem. There are a lot of moving parts and there can be hiccups. Team members can help come up with a plan.

[8:57] - Managers are great planners. But making sure things are happening is the challenge.

[10:28] - Checking back in throughout the year and celebrating progress are important.

[12:25] - Remember your why.

[13:52] - It all matters. Goals do not have to be financially driven.

[14:52] - Vendors and clients can feel team tension. Staffing goals could be all about how employees interact with each other.

[17:26] - Team building is critical. Megan shares some of her favorite team building exercises.

[20:02] - Some goals seem like they are not measurable but they are. Put them on paper and determine how they can be measured.

[22:24] - To boost the culture in the practice, consider having a kudos board that isn't invisible to clients.

[24:10] - Building people up in the team is a way to boost culture and meet the culture goals you set for the year.

[25:10] - Megan says that the unsuccessful ideas are the ones she comes up with completely on her own. Goal setting and problem solving as a team is key.

[26:21] - Set easier goals to give yourself and the team an opportunity to celebrate wins early on in addition to the bigger goals that might take all year.

Thank you for listening. Remember you are not in this alone. Visit our website for more resources.

Links and Resources:

• VHMA Web Page

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• VHMA Twitter

• VHMA on Linkedin