I often get the question about how important it is to treat everyone fairly in your veterinary practice. Usually I respond with a question of my own. I ask, “Do you mean fair, or do you mean the same?”

These are two very different things.

Fairness in Your Veterinary Practice

Fairness is a subjective term and is based largely on the perception of the individual. The first thing kids say when they aren’t getting what they want is, “That’s not fair.” The truth is, it’s just different than what they want.

Many people believe fairness means everyone in the practice receives the same things. In my experience, that is one of the least fair things possible. People show up with different talents, attitudes, skills, levels of effort, and contributions. If they all get the same thing, we’ve been unfair to everyone involved.

This is especially true for those who contribute less effort and engagement. We have sent a clear message to them that they can do less and still get more in our practice. That’s just not a fair thing to do.

Fairness vs. Equality

Equality is completely different. It often gets misconstrued as everyone getting the same thing. What equality means is that everyone has the same chance to succeed, the same opportunity to develop, the same great coaching, and the same interest in growth by the leaders of the practice. 

Equality doesn’t mean that pay or perks or praise are the same across the board. That just ensures mediocrity.

Questions Around How to Be Fair in Your Practice

If you want to be fair in how you lead your veterinary team, ask yourself these questions:

Success is fair and it leads to more opportunities for everyone involved in helping a practice achieve it. We have a responsibility as leaders to think about fairness a little differently.

Is your veterinary practice fair? Let us know in the comments below.