However, before you can successfully hire veterinarians in the new year, you must first successfully recruit them. The recruiting process involves everything up until you make an offer of employment to a job candidate. The job offer is the “moment of truth.” If the candidate accepts the offer, then you have successfully recruited them. If they do not, then . . . you did not.
There are two types of recruitment, active and passive, and you must engage in both types if you hope to successfully recruit veterinarians in this current job market. Before tackling that, though, let us examine the three main challenges for Veterinary employers in 2024:
- Increased demand for Veterinary services—Pet ownership is on the rise globally, driven by a growing awareness of the emotional and physical benefits of having pets. The demand for Veterinary services has surged accordingly, with pet owners expecting high-quality care for their furry companions.
- Shift in work-life integration priorities—Younger generations of veterinarians are placing a higher emphasis on achieving a healthy work-life integration. The traditional model of long hours and extensive on-call duties may not align with the preferences of these new professionals.
- Shortage of specialized veterinarians—Not only is there a shortage of qualified veterinarians overall, but there is also a notable shortage of veterinarians with specialized skills, such as those in exotic animal medicine, orthopedic surgery, and Veterinary oncology. Recruiting professionals with these specialties has become a significant challenge.
How to Recruit Veterinarians in 2024
Now that we have reviewed the challenges that are facing Veterinary employers in this current climate, it is time to tackle the main topic—recruiting veterinarians. As mentioned above, there are two ways to do so: actively and passively. It is imperative that your organization’s recruiting plan involves both techniques, used in conjunction with each other, to produce the best results.
With all of this firmly in mind, below is a comprehensive blueprint for recruiting veterinarians in 2024:
#1—Understand your target audience.
Your target audience, of course, are the candidates you want to hire. As I have noted previously, different generations of veterinarians may have distinct priorities and expectations. Tailoring recruitment efforts to address these specific needs is key to attracting the right talent. For example, younger veterinarians, primarily Millennials and Generation Z, often prioritize work-life integration, professional development opportunities, and a positive workplace culture. As a result, flexible scheduling, mentorship programs, and a focus on well-being can be powerful incentives.
On the other hand, for seasoned professionals, factors such as competitive compensation, opportunities for career advancement, and a supportive work environment are crucial. Highlighting a commitment to continuing education and the integration of advanced technologies can also appeal to experienced veterinarians.
#2—Build a strong online presence.
In the digital age, a robust online presence is non-negotiable. Prospective candidates are likely to research potential employers online before making decisions. With this in mind, ensure that your practice or organization’s website is user-friendly and provides comprehensive information about your values, services, and team. Include testimonials from current employees to offer insights into the workplace culture.
In addition, utilize social media platforms to showcase the personality of your practice. Share success stories, behind-the-scenes glimpses, and updates on professional development opportunities. Social media can be a powerful tool for creating a sense of community and attracting like-minded individuals.
#3—Offer competitive compensation and benefits.
When you are trying to hire top talent, you must be willing to offer top dollar to secure that talent. This is especially the case in the Veterinary profession, where there is a shortage of veterinarian candidates. Competitive compensation packages should be accompanied by a range of benefits that align with the needs and priorities of veterinarians.
Conduct market research to determine the average salary for veterinarians in your geographical area. Offering a competitive base salary is essential for attracting qualified candidates. In addition to salary, a comprehensive benefits package can set your practice apart. Include health insurance, dental and vision coverage, retirement plans, and other perks such as continuing education allowances and professional development opportunities. Also consider implementing loan repayment programs to ease the financial burden on recent graduates. This can be a powerful incentive for attracting talented veterinarians who may be grappling with student loan debt.
#4—Provide professional development opportunities.
Provide opportunities for veterinarians to engage in continuing education programs. This not only keeps them abreast of the latest developments in the field, but it also contributes to their job satisfaction. In addition, establish mentorship programs where experienced veterinarians can guide and support newer members of the team. This fosters a sense of community and can be particularly appealing to younger professionals seeking guidance in their careers.
Support and encourage veterinarians who wish to pursue specialized certifications. This not only adds value to your practice, but it also attracts professionals who are looking to advance their skills in specific areas.
#5—Embrace technology.
Incorporating technology into Veterinary practice is no longer optional—it is a necessity. From electronic medical records to telemedicine, leveraging technology enhances efficiency and also attracts tech-savvy professionals. This means investing in state-of-the-art facilities and equipment and demonstrating a commitment to providing the best possible care through modern technology, both of which can be a significant draw for prospective candidates.
It is also a good idea to provide training programs to ensure that your team is well-versed in the use of technology. This not only enhances the quality of patient care, but it also makes your practice more appealing to candidates who value innovation.
#6—Prioritize work-life integration.
The traditional Veterinary model of long and unpredictable hours can be a deterrent for many prospective candidates. Prioritizing work-life integration is an attractive feature that contributes to employee satisfaction and retention. Offer flexible scheduling options that accommodate different lifestyles and preferences. Consider implementing alternative work arrangements, such as compressed workweeks or telecommuting for certain roles.
Also, while on-call duties are often a part of Veterinary practice, ensuring they are reasonable and well-distributed is important. Implementing a fair on-call schedule can prevent burnout and enhance the overall well-being of your Veterinary team.
#7—Implement employee well-being initiatives.
The well-being of Veterinary professionals is paramount for both individual satisfaction and the overall success of a practice. Implementing initiatives that prioritize mental and physical health contributes to a positive workplace culture. Your organization should consider offering mental health support services, such as counseling or employee assistance programs. The nature of Veterinary work can be emotionally challenging, and providing resources to support mental well-being has proven to be beneficial.
In addition, implement workplace wellness programs that encourage physical activity, healthy eating, and overall well-being. This can include fitness challenges, nutrition workshops, and access to wellness resources. Finally, ensure that your time-off policies are flexible and accommodating. Veterinary professionals may need time to recharge, and providing a supportive approach to time off contributes to a healthier work-life integration.
How We Can Help You Recruit Veterinarians in 2024!
The VET Recruiter stands as an experienced ally in your quest to attract top-tier veterinarians to your Veterinary practice. As the Veterinary landscape continues to evolve, the demand for skilled and passionate professionals has never been higher. The VET Recruiter excels in navigating this uncertain terrain, offering tailored solutions that align with the unique challenges of Veterinary recruitment.
The VET Recruiter employs a strategic approach designed to identify, engage, and secure the most qualified veterinarians for your team. Through extensive networks and a vast candidate pool, we have the ability to tap into a diverse range of talent, ensuring a match that goes beyond qualifications to encompass cultural fit and long-term commitment.
With more than 25 years of experience, we can help you recruit veterinarians in 2024!
We invite you to find out more about our Veterinary recruiting services for employers and also learn more about our recruiting process and how we can help you hire more veterinarians this year.
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.