Ep 227: The Importance of Emotional Intelligence in Veterinary Medicine, with Dr. Monica Tarantino

In this episode of the ‘So You’re a Vet… Now What?’ podcast, host Dr. Moriah McCauley is joined by small animal veterinarian Dr. Monica Tarantino. Dr. Monica Tarantino stresses the importance of expressing empathy to clients as a powerful tool in client communication. By showing understanding and compassion towards the client's situation, veterinarians can establish a connection, making clients feel like they are part of the same team. This initial empathetic statement sets a positive tone for the conversation and fosters trust between the veterinarian and the client.Dr. Tarantino recommends initiating every exam room with an empathetic statement to deepen relationships with clients. Clients are more likely to follow through with recommended diagnostics and treatments when they feel understood and supported by their veterinarian. This approach can lead to improved patient care and outcomes as clients are more inclined to adhere to the veterinarian's advice.In situations where in-person interactions are limited, such as during the COVID-19 pandemic, the challenge of conveying empathy over the phone or through virtual platforms becomes more apparent. However, Dr. Tarantino and Dr. Moriah McCauley discuss the importance of adapting to these circumstances by practicing empathy in different ways, such as acknowledging the client's emotions and demonstrating genuine care for their pets.Moreover, the episode delves into the significance of self-awareness and seeking feedback as essential components for enhancing communication skills. Dr. Tarantino highlights the value of mentors and feedback from others to gain insights into how one is perceived by clients and colleagues. This feedback loop can help veterinarians identify areas for improvement in their communication style and emotional intelligence.Overall, the episode emphasizes the importance of empathy in client communication and its positive impact on client relationships, patient care, and overall outcomes in veterinary practice. By incorporating empathy into every interaction with clients, veterinarians can refine their communication skills and establish stronger connections with pet owners, ultimately leading to better outcomes for both the clients and their beloved pets.Episode Outline[00:00:55] Empathy and storytelling in communication.[00:04:24] Communication skills in veterinary medicine.[00:09:45] The need for communication skills.[00:13:18] Empathy as a secret weapon.[00:15:46] Connecting with pet owners.[00:19:33] Client communication skills awareness.[00:21:45] Self-awareness and communication skills.[00:24:16] Helping the next generation.[00:29:39] Client communication strategies.[00:32:09] Senior pets communication tips.Episode LinksSee more from Dr. Monica Tarantino: https://www.thesprucepets.com/monica-tarantino-dvm-4690408 Connect with Dr. Kelly Cairns: https://www.instagram.com/seniordogdoc/?hl=enMentioned in this episode:So You're a Vet, Now What? - The CourseAre you a new or recent veterinary graduate? If so, Dr. Dave’s course, ‘So You’re a Vet… Now What?’ has been put together specifically for you. The course focuses on non-clinical skills. This is not as dull as it sounds. In fact, almost every career problem that people face is due to not having well-developed, non-clinical skills. These are skills like client communication, so you have great relationships with clients. Emotional intelligence, so you've got great relationships with your teammates. Effective negotiation skills, so you can get paid what you are worth. Management of imposter syndrome, so you can have confidence in your abilities. And, how to build formidable resilience, so you can handle everything that comes your way....