In the world of executive and professional recruiting, especially in the Animal Health industry and Veterinary profession, one question continues to rise to the surface time and again: What motivates people in their careers?
It’s a simple question, but one with complex and revealing answers.
To dive deeper into this topic, we recently posted a poll on LinkedIn to gauge what motivates professionals most in their careers. We posed four options from which to choose:
- Making a positive impact
- Financial growth and rewards
- Recognition and achievement
- Personal learning and growth
The results were enlightening—and perhaps even a bit surprising.
The Poll Results: A Snapshot
Here’s how the responses broke down:
- Making a positive impact – 41%
- Financial growth and rewards – 25%
- Personal learning and growth – 23%
- Recognition and achievement – 11%
Let’s unpack these findings and explore what they say about professionals and the evolving landscape of career motivation.
The #1 Motivator: Making a Positive Impact
Topping the list by a clear margin was “Making a positive impact,” capturing 41% of the votes.
This result is consistent with what I’ve seen firsthand over the years working with thousands of professionals. For many, their career isn’t just a job, it is a mission.
Today, professionals are deeply purpose-driven, including those within the Animal Health industry and the Veterinary profession. They want their work to mean something beyond the paycheck.
This intrinsic motivation often fuels long-term career satisfaction and engagement. It also aligns with the growing emphasis on purpose in the workplace, particularly among Millennials and Gen Z professionals, who increasingly seek careers that align with their values.
Employers should take note: creating a workplace where employees feel they are making a difference can be a powerful retention and engagement tool.
Financial Growth and Rewards: Still a Strong Driver
Coming in second in our poll was “Financial growth and rewards” at 25%.
While not surprising, this result reminds us of a core truth: compensation still matters. It matters a great deal.
Professionals have financial goals, families to support, and futures to build. Competitive salaries, bonuses, and growth opportunities remain essential not only for attraction, but for retention.
That said, financial incentives alone will not be enough to retain top talent. As the poll results show, many professionals prioritize meaning and purpose even above monetary rewards.
The most successful employers understand how to combine competitive compensation with an environment that promotes personal mission and growth.
Personal Learning and Growth: A Close Third
Not far behind financial incentives was “Personal learning and growth,” with 23% of the votes.
This speaks volumes about the forward-thinking mindset of professionals today. People want to evolve. They want to stay sharp, challenge themselves, and expand their knowledge and capabilities.
In the Animal Health industry and Veterinary profession, this is especially important due to the rapid pace of technological advancement, changing regulations, and evolving client expectations. Continuing education and professional development are no longer optional—they are expected.
As a recruiter, I can tell you that candidates often ask about mentorship, advancement opportunities, and support for ongoing learning. Employers who invest in their teams’ development position themselves as leaders in talent retention.
Recognition and Achievement: Undervalued or Overlooked?
At just 11%, “Recognition and achievement” came in last among the four motivational drivers.
On the surface, this may seem surprising. After all, everyone enjoys being recognized for a job well done. However, this result might reflect a deeper insight: while recognition is appreciated, it may not be the primary motivator for most professionals.
Alternatively, it could suggest that recognition is seen as a byproduct of the other three motivators. If you make an impact, grow financially, and develop personally, recognition often follows naturally.
Still, this low percentage should be a gentle reminder to employers: even if it is not the top motivator, meaningful recognition can enhance morale and reinforce positive behaviors. A simple “thank you” or acknowledgment of someone’way, forts can go a long way—especially in high-stress, high-demand professions like Veterinary medicine.
What Do These Results Mean for Employers?
For employers, the implications of these poll results are clear:
- Purpose matters. If your organization has a clear mission, make it known. Help employees see how their work contributes to something bigger than themselves.
- Money still talks. Compensation must be competitive to attract and retain top talent. But it won’t stand on its own without purpose and growth.
- Invest in development. Whether it is CE support, tuition reimbursement, or clear advancement paths, professionals want to grow.
- Recognize effort. Even if it is not the main motivator, sincere recognition boosts morale and builds loyalty.
In short: the most compelling workplaces combine mission, money, mentorship, and meaningful recognition.
What Do These Results Mean for Job Seekers?
If you are a professional in the Animal Health industry or Veterinary profession, reflecting on your own motivators can help guide your career decisions.
Are you most fulfilled when you are helping others or advancing a cause? Do you prioritize learning opportunities or financial security? Knowing your “why” is key to finding the right employer fit—and asking the right questions during the interview process.
And if your current position does not align with what motivates you, it may be time to explore new opportunities.
Directives for Professionals and Employers
This poll was a simple one—but the insight it provided is anything but.
At The VET Recruiter, we believe that recruiting is about more than filling jobs. It is about connecting people with purpose. These poll results reinforce the importance of understanding what truly drives people—and how aligning those motivators with the right role or employer can lead to long-term success and satisfaction.
To all professionals reading this: don’t settle for a career that just pays the bills. Strive for one that ignites your passion and makes you proud.
To all employers: take the time to understand what motivates your team. And if you are unsure—ask them. The answers may surprise you.
And finally, if you’re looking for a role—or a candidate—that aligns with these key motivators, let’s talk. At The VET Recruiter, we’re here to help you make the right connections.
If you’re looking to make a change or explore your employment options, then we want to talk with you. I encourage you to contact us or you can also create a profile and/or submit your resume for consideration.
We help support careers in one of two ways: 1. By helping Animal Health and Veterinary professionals to find the right opportunity when the time is right, and 2. By helping to recruit top talent for the critical needs of Animal Health and Veterinary organizations. If this is something that you would like to explore further, please send an email to stacy@thevetrecruiter.com.