News & Views

So, unless you have been hiding under a warming blanket for the last few years, you know that your services as a Veterinary Professional are in high demand*, perhaps even more so with the recent pandemic, and that demand is only going to increase over the coming few years*…but before you head out for an innocent coffee with that recruitment consultant who has been so persuasively persistent of late, the best way to start is to have “that chat” with your current boss first…and here are the seven steps you need to create a mutually beneficial outcome…

Sometimes changing jobs is inevitable…there is a myriad of reasons…your partner may have secured an opportunity of a lifetime elsewhere, you may need to move a little closer to the family as they need extra care in these trying times or you decide that now is the time to step up, move ahead in your career and changing jobs is the most viable option. So, having made the big decision, it’s now time to start working on your plan…starting with these strategies that the savvy veterinary professionals are discovering…

So, you’ve worked hard and earned the certifications to become a qualified Veterinarian, Veterinary Nurse or Veterinary Technician. Congratulations! But now, a whole new challenge lies ahead… your very first job! Making the transition from student to practicing is an exciting time, but can also be understandably daunting. During this first year of employment especially, a great support network is invaluable. Helpful colleagues, accessible professional resources, and some mindful self-care will not only kick-start your career but will also support your mental and physical health during a potentially stressful time. So, to help you feel more cool, calm, and in control on your journey, here are a few early veterinary career tips that we sourced from Veterinary Professionals who have “been there, done that” and not just survived, but thrived…

As you approach five years into your career as a veterinarian, it’s time to step back and do some reflection. Take a few moments to carefully consider what you have learned, how your job has impacted your worldview, and how you’ve managed to balance your work responsibilities with social or family obligations. You probably don’t need to be convinced of the importance of self-evaluation. After all, you have been pushing yourself since your pre-vet days. Even as a practicing veterinarian, you likely work hard to keep up with evolving technology and techniques. You may put in long and irregular hours, either at the clinic or at home with your nose in reference books and veterinary journals, all in the continued quest for personal and professional development. Five years into your career, you’ve earned your chops and gained confidence in your work. Now it’s time to take a step back and take a big-picture view. What’s ahead for your career? What are your goals in your personal life? Where do you see yourself five years from now?

In this era of unusual demand and supply for Veterinary team members, if you want the best then it’s time to become a great storyteller. We’re not talking about fibs, stretching the truth or outright lies. What we do mean is that in a market where demand clearly is outstripping supply (at a ratio of more than 1:1) Veterinarians, Veterinary Technicians, Veterinary Nurses and just about all Veterinary Professionals are being highly selective about choosing their next career step…and it starts with your Message. You have just a few seconds…That’s it. In today’s attention-span-challenged world, if your Job Campaign does not attract, engage and draw readers or viewers into your story in the first few seconds then your audience will just move on…and, having captured their attention, you must keep their interest right to the very end. As for you Job Seekers, knowing your potential new employer’s compelling story is essential to making the right decision. Both of you will find out why and how here…

You have successfully completed your studies and practical skills placements, and gained your Degree or Certification and you are actively networking and applying, and with good interest being shown…but even though there is a recognized shortage of veterinary professionals across all levels, despite popular opinion, you need more than a pulse, a degree and state registration to get your first veterinary job. And then there is a global pandemic causing all kinds of uncertainty. Finding a practice to put your newly acquired skills to work in an entry-level role has always been a challenge, and now even more so, so here are six proven tactics to help you secure your first job as a brand new Veterinarian, Vet Tech or Veterinary Nurse in these challenging times…