Conflicts are inevitable in a busy work environment, and misunderstandings or drama can quickly drain energy and impact everyone’s day. However, when managers are equipped with strong conflict-resolution skills, they can steer these challenges toward positive solutions, enhancing team cohesion and overall morale.
Podcast guest Rebecca May started her career at the front desk, trained as a veterinary assistant, and later returned to college to prepare for her management role. She’s passionate about change management and helping team members realize their potential. In her experience, conflicts often arise from mismatched role expectations and around patient care. She’s learned that skills like resiliency, adaptability, and emotional regulation are critical in creating a supportive team environment.
Rebecca shares her approach to building a culture of open communication, where team members can work through conflicts in healthy ways. From diffusing tension with humor to focusing on proactive training, she provides actionable strategies that can make a difference in any practice. Rebecca believes that conflict resolution, like any other skill, can be learned and developed over time, turning everyday challenges into growth opportunities for the team.
Produced monthly by VHMA, hosted by Debbie Hill, CVPM, SPHR, SHRM-SCP, these podcasts will expose listeners to new ideas and practical strategies and solutions that managers---relying on their expertise, experience, and creativity--have adopted to move the practice forward.
To listen, visit the VHMA website or wherever you listen to podcasts.