Leadership doesn’t always begin with a title. Sometimes, it starts around a campfire. Or in a quiet moment on the dock over the water. Or over a plate of Harriet’s cookies shared with people you just met — who somehow feel like lifelong friends by the end of the week. It’s challenging to encapsulate what the Veterinary Leadership Experience (VLE) is all about to those yet to experience it and I’d like to share my perspective through the lens of a simple, yet effective skill I learned.
When people ask what I gained from VLE, I could tell stories about fun on the field or reflective activities. But the most powerful thing I took away was a skill that became a habit: asking open-ended questions.
That shift — from giving advice to creating space for someone’s voice — changed how I practice, lead, and connect. VLE taught me to ask things like, “What’s most important to you right now?” or “How do you feel about this situation?”
Open-ended questions allow people to express what really matters to them. That small change transforms conversations — from exam rooms to team huddles to boardrooms.
It also reflects how I lead. I’m someone who thrives on connection. I lead best when I listen deeply and invite people to share their full perspectives. That creates space for clarity, trust, and aligned action — especially when navigating complex issues.
The open-ended question skill didn’t stay at VLE or in Idaho for me. I use it every day — in coaching sessions, team meetings, and in conversations about and with the American Veterinary Medical Association (AVMA). It’s not flashy, but it’s foundational. And it’s helped me grow into a leader who values curiosity and collaboration more than control.
So whether you’re heading to VLE for the first time or just looking for one simple leadership shift — consider asking open-ended questions. You might be surprised what people reveal when you make room for them to speak.
