Beyond Borders: Navigating a Multicultural Work Environment

VHMA Manager to Manager

Join us in welcoming Esteban Sotomayor to VHMA for this episode, coming on to help us address multiculturalism in the workplace. Esteban is a veterinary business consultant with an extensive background in Latin American veterinary practices, and he sheds some light on some of the differences between the veterinary practices in Latin America and the United States, including the role of veterinary technicians and the unique challenges and opportunities faced by clinic owners in both regions. (For example, the lack of veterinary technicians in Latin America drastically affects how practices operate, requiring veterinarians to take on tasks that would typically be handled by technicians in the U.S.)

We also explore how competition among clinics and economic factors influence practice management, particularly in Esteban's home country, Ecuador, but a key takeaway from this episode is the importance of building and managing a strong team. Esteban shares his own approach to recruitment, training, and keeping the right people engaged, even in regions where veterinary talent is in high demand. We discuss how cultural differences shape management styles, especially in Latin American clinics where veterinarians often wear many hats, from diagnosing to managing HR.

If you are in the veterinary field yourself and/or are curious about how business practices differ across cultures, then this episode will definitely resonate with you! Tune in for a candid conversation about the realities of managing a veterinary practice, the pressures of client expectations, and how to stand out in a competitive market.

Show Notes:

[2:07] - Esteban compares veterinary practices in Latin America and the U.S., highlighting differences in training and technician roles. [5:56] - Learn about external pressures in Latin America, including political and economic challenges for veterinarians. [8:16] - Esteban stresses the importance of recruitment, training, and retaining talented staff. [11:01] - Esteban suggests changing mindset on how and where we meet people, while Jill discusses management structures. [12:17] - Veterinarians in Latin America manage their own clinics, blending business and medical roles which can be challenging. [14:27] - Jill notes the differences in practice management, especially the delegation of tasks in the U.S. vs. Latin America. [16:36] - Hear how Esteban's clinic stands out in a competitive market by offering high-quality service. [18:50] - Jill highlights the importance of client perception, service quality, and office presentation to attract clients. [21:48] - Jill reflects on how practices are slowing down and why excellent customer service is so important. [23:47] - Clinics can charge more by offering high-quality servicing and managing demand. [26:44] - Esteban highlights three crucial pillars for success: processes, people, and policies. [27:20] - It's important to be adaptable, support teams, and continually recruit for the right staff.

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

Links and Resources:

• VHMA Web Page

• VHMA Coronavirus Resources

• VHMA Facebook

• VHMA Twitter

• VHMA on Linkedin

• Esteban Sotomayor on LinkedIn