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Q. Our practice is getting busier. How can we keep a personal touch?

Everyone's bound to disagree sometimes, but it becomes everyone's problem when issues aren't resolved quickly, says Pam Weakley, a Firstline Editorial Advisory Board member and the practice manager at Dickman Road Veterinary Clinic in Battle Creek, Mich.

You're the practice manager at a mid-sized clinic. When the stress index is high, one of the associates snaps at team members. Several team members have complained, and a few have threatened to quit. You're ready to discuss the problem with Dr. Sweet, the associate. Firstline Editorial Advisory Board member Pam Weakley offers this sample script:

We're always so busy. How do we find time for regular staff meetings?

I work in a new practice and everyone is used to different protocols. How can we get on the same page?

On the Job: Pam Weakly, practice manager at Dickman Road Veterinary Clinic in Battle Creek, Mich.