Tell your veterinary team good job!

Ask most people how they know they're doing a good job at work and they often say, "Because no one has yelled at me lately."

Many team members I've interviewed feel frustrated about their work for the same reason: a total lack of recognition of their hard work. And good work that goes unnoticed and unappreciated almost always deteriorates.

Unfortunately, people who feel appreciative often fail to express it. Some veterinarians and practice managers rationalize by claiming their team members are just doing what they're paid to do. Others mistakenly assume people can just congradulate themselves. Even if that were true, a verbal pat on the back provides satisfaction for which there is absolutely no substitute.

Don't take your team members' efforts for granted. Thank them when they do good work or make extra effort—whether it's one-on-one in the hall, a written thank-you note, or in person at the end of the day.

Veterinary Economics Editorial Advisory Board member Bob Levoy is the author of seven best-selling books.