The importance of allowing your team to lead too

What happens if I'm not around? Why is it impossible for me to go on vacation without being called to solve a problem?

Do these questions sound familiar? If you work in a veterinary clinic and lead a team, it's likely you've asked them yourself at some point.

When you're in a leadership role, everything seems to fall on you. But… does that mean you have to make all the decisions and be on top of every detail? The answer is no. If that's happening, it's time to change your approach and start developing leaders within your team.

At Clinicaleaders, we teach that leadership implies responsibility, but it doesn't mean carrying everything on your shoulders. Being responsible is not doing everything yourself, but rather ensuring your team is prepared to make decisions aligned with your clinic's values.

How to teach your team to lead

Here are some practical tips you can apply starting today:

1. Don't be the quick fix

As veterinarians, we love to help. And as leaders, we usually have more experience. But that doesn't mean we should solve everything.
Next time someone brings you a problem, instead of offering the solution, ask: “How do you propose we solve it?”. Provide support if necessary, but let them take responsibility. They'll gain confidence, and you'll free up time for more strategic tasks.

2. Listen actively

We're trained to provide answers, but not so much to listen. In my most productive meetings, I've presented a couple of problems and asked the team to propose solutions. The result: 90% of the time, their ideas were as good—or better—than mine.
Actively and genuinely listening transforms team dynamics.

3. Give everyone on the team a voice

Every person has something valuable to contribute. From the newest assistant to the most experienced veterinarian. Ask for opinions, listen to them, and value them. A very useful technique is to assign a different person each month to organize and lead the team meeting.

4. Avoid impulsive corrections

Your team is learning, and your words carry more weight than you imagine. If someone makes a mistake (and there's no risk to the patient), first ask what led them to make that decision. Use the moment to align their reasoning with your clinic's values.

5. Trust, but supervise

Leadership is about balance. You can't let go of all the reins at once. Do it gradually, according to the team's level of maturity. Building autonomy takes time, but the result is a stronger team and you, a freer leader.

---

Conclusion

Fostering leadership in your team is not only beneficial for you as a manager; it is essential for the growth of your clinic. An autonomous and motivated team makes better decisions, resolves conflicts effectively, and allows you to rest, delegate, and focus on what truly matters.

And remember: if you're constantly putting out fires, it may not be the team's fault, but an opportunity to lead better. 🌱

---

Would you like to work on these skills in your clinic? Write to us. At Clinicaleaders, we'll support you on this journey.

 

Dr Mark William Hughes MRCVS CertNCS (VPM)