Retaining-and honoring-trusted team members

"It can be difficult for any practice to retain good employees," says Beth Montoya, hospital administrator at Pembroke Veterinary Clinic and Sajo Farm Veterinary Hospital in Virginia Beach, Va., and Great Bridge Veterinary Hospital in Chesapeake, Va. "But in areas with many strong veterinary hospitals, we have to work even harder."

To let team members know they're valued, the hospital managers take each employee out to lunch for his or her birthday. Workers are also given a small gift approximately once a month, with a note of appreciation. "The gifts aren't extravagant, but they come from the heart," Montoya says. "We give notepads, candy, or scented soaps and candles. We're always looking for ways to say, 'We're glad you're on our team. Good job!'"

This month, Montoya plans to start sending a card and gift to each of the hospitals' 70 employees on the anniversary of their employment. "We're always on the lookout for ways to let every team member know how important they are!"