Leadership Style in a Small Animal Veterinary Practice

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Leadership Style in a Small Animal Veterinary Practice Kelly Vail University of Maryland University College AMBA620 Professor Edwin E. Olson February 21, 2012 Abstract The role and organizational impact of an ineffective, autocratic leader in a veterinary practice is examined in depth. Using theories of leadership, power, style, and behavior, as well as research in management in the veterinary field, the employee’s behavior is studied and suggestions are presented for how I can work with the employee gain insight into and positively affect her behavior and understand how it impacts co-workers, as well as help her earn back some managerial responsibilities that had been previously taken away from her based on behavioral issues. Additionally, the employee’s effects on my reception as a new manager are also discussed. Introduction Effective leadership is a crucial piece in the puzzle that is organizational success. Leadership can be understood through the exploration of power, influence, and leadership style in the workplace (Colquitt Lepine, & Wesson, 2011). As with any small business or large corporation, a veterinary practice requires strong leaders to flourish. Unfortunately, many practices lack such a leader, including my own, in which one self-proclaimed leader often shows ineffective leadership behavior. As the newly appointed hospital manager, I hope to collaborate with this employee to help her become a better leader. I feel that with open communication and cooperation, her many years of experience in the field and my education can intertwine to develop an efficient, well-managed team and practice. Context One of the employees in the practice I manage has been a part of the clinic for over thirty years, going from being the only employee of one veterinarian a member of the current team in which she has little legitimate authority

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