Episode #330 – Why You Need an Animal Health or Veterinary Recruiter, Part 2
Caleb: Welcome to “The Animal Health and Veterinary Employment Insider,” brought to you by The VET Recruiter. In this podcast, Animal Health executive recruiter and Veterinary recruiter Stacy Pursell of The VET Recruiter provides insight and practical advice for both employers and job seekers in the Animal Health and Veterinary industries. The VET Recruiter’s focus is to solve talent-centric problems for the Animal Health industry and Veterinary profession. In fact, The VET Recruiter’s mission is to help Animal Health and Veterinary companies hire top talent, while helping Animal Health and Veterinary professionals attain career-enhancing opportunities that increase their quality of life.
Today, we’re continuing a new series about why professionals need an Animal Health or Veterinary recruiter. Welcome, Stacy, and thank you for joining us today.
Stacy: Hello, Caleb. As always, I’m glad to be here with you.
Caleb: Stacy, this is the second podcast episode in our series. Can you recap what we discussed last time?
Stacy: Certainly. In the first podcast episode in this series, we discussed why professionals need an Animal Health or Veterinary recruiter if there are so many jobs available. We also addressed the many reasons why professionals are reluctant to trust recruiters and why they should trust an experienced and reputable recruiter. In addition, we talked about the value that recruiters can provide, including access to what is known as the “hidden job market.”
Caleb: Stacy, can you also briefly recap the reasons why professionals need an Animal Health or Veterinary recruiter even though there are plenty of jobs? I know that’s a question that’s on the minds of many job seekers and candidates.
Stacy: Absolutely! The five main reasons include being informed of opportunities that might not be known otherwise, saving time and energy in the job search, gaining valuable insights about potential employers, having an edge in salary negotiations, and staying updated on industry trends. These factors collectively contribute to a more streamlined and informed career growth process.
Caleb: Okay, great! What will we be discussing today?
Stacy: A couple of major things, starting with how you should react when a recruiter contacts you. We’ve touched upon this before on the podcast, but I believe we should revisit it in light of this new series.
Caleb: Let’s jump right in. You’ve been in the industry for a long time, both in the executive search and recruiting industry and the Animal Health industry and Veterinary profession and I’m sure you’ve encountered the question, “How did you get my name?” numerous times. What’s your perspective on this?
Stacy: It’s a great question, and I completely understand why individuals might be curious about it. However, what’s more crucial to focus on is the “why” – why a recruiter is reaching out to you. Generally, there are two main reasons: either they have a compelling job opportunity or they see you as a top candidate for a specific role.
Caleb: That makes sense. So, why do you think people tend to get fixated on the “how” rather than the “why”?
Stacy: Well, it’s natural to be curious about the process, especially if the recruiter is someone you don’t know. However, dwelling on the “how” won’t contribute much to your career. Instead, understanding “why” you’re being contacted is key, as it could open doors to exciting opportunities that align with your professional goals.
Caleb: Absolutely. So, let’s address the “why.” Why would an Animal Health recruiter or Veterinary recruiter contact someone?
Stacy: The “why” can be boiled down to two main reasons. First, they have a job opportunity that they believe might be a significant step forward in your career. Second, they’ve identified you as a top-tier candidate, and they want to ensure you’re aware of this opportunity. In both cases, the focus is on your professional growth.
Caleb: That’s a valuable perspective. In your experience, what’s the significance of considering every opportunity, even if you’re content in your current role?
Stacy: I’ve emphasized before that evaluating opportunities is crucial, regardless of your current situation. You can’t seize an opportunity if you don’t give it proper consideration. Unfortunately, distractions often arise, especially when someone unexpected, like a recruiter, contacts you. The key is to stay focused on the potential benefits for your career and personal life.
Caleb: So, instead of asking, “How did you get my name?” what would be a more beneficial question for professionals to ask when approached by a recruiter?
Stacy: Excellent question. Instead of dwelling on the “how,” professionals should shift their focus to the “why.” Asking, “Why do you think I’m a good fit for this role?” will provide insights into the opportunities that could positively impact their career.
Caleb: That’s a great shift in perspective. Now, let’s talk about the “how” of an Animal Health or Veterinary recruiter. Why might someone be curious about this aspect, and what’s your take on it?
Stacy: It’s natural for individuals to be curious about how a recruiter got their name. However, it’s crucial to understand that recruiters are tasked with identifying top candidates in the field – the top 5% to 10% who are gainfully employed and highly regarded by their current employers. Being contacted by a recruiter is, in itself, a recognition of your professional standing.
Caleb: That’s a flattering way to look at it. Can you shed some light on how recruiters typically source names?
Stacy: Certainly. Recruiters often rely on referrals from individuals within the industry. This means that someone who knows you might have recommended you as a top candidate for a particular opportunity. It’s not a violation of privacy; rather, it’s an endorsement from someone who believes in your potential and wants to see you thrive. The most sought-after professionals within the industry are the ones who get the most calls from recruiters.
Caleb: That’s interesting. Can you share any instances where recommendations played a significant role in your recruitment process?
Stacy: Absolutely. I’ve had cases where a person’s direct supervisor recommended them because they knew that the opportunity, I had could significantly advance their career. In some instances, supervisors were aware of impending layoffs and wanted to look out for someone they cared about, ensuring they had a chance at a better future.
Caleb: It’s heartening to hear that recommendations can come from a genuine place of care and support. Now, let’s talk about the current state of employment opportunities in the Veterinary profession. You mentioned there’s a high demand for veterinarians. Can you revisit that within the scope of what we’re discussing today?
Stacy: Absolutely. The Veterinary profession is currently experiencing a surge in premium employment opportunities. The demand for veterinarians is high, and employers are willing to pay more to attract top talent. This is a result of the Law of Supply and Demand—when something is in short supply and high demand, its value increases. Now is a prime time for professionals to focus on leveraging their skills and making their names known to top employers.
Caleb: So, in essence, this is a favorable time for those working in the Veterinary profession to be noticed and seize career-enhancing opportunities.
Stacy: Precisely. In the current job market, professionals should actively seek to make their names known, as there has never been a better time to capitalize on the abundance of opportunities available.
In other words, embrace the opportunities that come your way, focus on the “why,” and don’t let the “how” distract you from potential career advancements. Your name is a valuable asset—make sure it’s known in the right circles.
Caleb: That’s great advice! So why else do professionals need an Animal Health or Veterinary recruiter?
Stacy: I have yet two more reasons that I’d like to discuss today—a good recruiter will not cost you money and they will not waste your time.
Caleb: Can you elaborate on these points?
Stacy: Certainly. One common misconception is that candidates might have to pay a fee to recruiters. This is not the case in reputable recruitment practices. Recruiters are compensated by the client, the employer, who hires the candidate. The employer pays the recruiter for their expertise in finding the best candidate for the position. The focus is on creating a win-win situation for both the candidate and the employer.
Caleb: That’s an important clarification. So, when someone thinks, “The employer pays you, so you only care about your commission check,” how would you respond to that perception?
Stacy: It’s a valid concern, and there might be recruiters who are solely motivated by their commission. However, reputable recruiting firms, like The VET Recruiter, prioritize long-term success for both candidates and employers. A successful placement is one where both parties are satisfied and happy with the outcome. That’s the reputation we’ve built over 25 plus years, focusing on creating win-win situations.
Caleb: And it’s evident in the testimonials on The VET Recruiter website, showcasing the positive impact on both professionals and employers. Now, let’s explore the aspect of time. How does a good recruiter ensure they don’t waste a candidate’s time?
Stacy: Time is a valuable commodity, and a good recruiter understands that. Recruiters don’t like to have their time wasted either. When a recruiter contacts a potential candidate about an opportunity, it’s because they believe it has the potential to be better than the candidate’s current role. Recruiters know candidates are unlikely to consider a lateral move, especially if they’re passive candidates. Therefore, presenting an opportunity that isn’t a clear improvement would be a waste of everyone’s time.
Caleb: So, it’s about efficiency and ensuring that both the candidate and the recruiter are aligned in pursuing opportunities that genuinely benefit the candidate’s career.
Stacy: Exactly. An Animal Health or Veterinary recruiter who values their own time won’t engage in presenting opportunities that don’t align with the candidate’s career goals. It’s a mutual understanding that ensures everyone’s time is used wisely.
Caleb: That’s a valuable perspective. Now, in the current job market, where opportunities abound, you’ve mentioned a caveat during previous episodes of the podcast, one that I’d like to bring it up again. You’ve said that not all recruiting firms are experienced or reputable. Can you elaborate on this?
Stacy: Absolutely. The booming job market and the shortage of veterinarians have led to the emergence of new recruiting firms. However, not all of them possess the experience and reputation needed to navigate the complexities of the industry successfully. It’s critical for professionals to choose an experienced and reputable recruiting firm to ensure a positive and fruitful collaboration.
Caleb: And that’s where The VET Recruiter stands out with over two decades of experience. What advice do you have for professionals looking to collaborate with a recruiting firm?
Stacy: Research is key. Look for firms with a solid track record, like The VET Recruiter, and read testimonials to understand the experiences of others. A reputable recruiting firm will guide you through the employment marketplace, helping you leverage the opportunities available in the current job market.
Caleb: Excellent advice. Thank you, Stacy, for shedding light on why and how a recruiter can be a valuable ally in one’s career journey. It’s been an enlightening conversation. We’re just about out of time for today. Is there anything else that you’d like to add before we end the podcast episode?
Stacy: Yes, I do. Another way to look at it, and perhaps a better way, is that professionals should view a good Animal Health recruiter or Veterinary recruiter as an agent for their career.
Caleb: Kind of like a sports agent?
Stacy: Yes, just like that. Recruiters represent you to organizations that are looking for top talent, just like athletes are top talent.
Caleb: In what ways are recruiters like agents?
Stacy: Multiple ways, actually. An effective recruiter could serve as a career strategist, offering personalized guidance and advice to candidates. They help individuals identify and articulate their unique strengths, ensuring that resumes and applications stand out in a competitive market. This support extends to interview preparation, where recruiters can provide insights into the specific expectations of employers and help candidates present themselves as the ideal fit for a given position.
Caleb: And recruiters also give you an edge when it comes to networking, isn’t that right, just like a sports agent does?
Stacy: Yes, building a relationship with a skilled recruiter is akin to having an advocate in the job market. Recruiters often have established connections with key players in the industry, allowing them to access exclusive job opportunities that may not be publicly advertised.
Caleb: The “hidden job market”?
Stacy: Yes, that’s right. By cultivating a rapport with a recruiter, professionals in the Animal Health industry or Veterinary profession can gain a competitive edge in accessing coveted positions and advancing their careers.
And believe it or not, the emotional support provided by a recruiter should not be underestimated. Job searching can be a challenging and stressful process, and a recruiter can offer encouragement, motivation, and a sense of reassurance throughout the journey. This emotional support is particularly important in an industry or a profession where individuals are often deeply passionate about their work with animals, and a recruiter who understands and respects this passion can make the job-seeking process more fulfilling.
Caleb: Really? I had not thought of that.
Stacy: Yes, that should also be considered. Ultimately, the role of a skilled recruiter is sometimes thought of as akin to that of a career agent, guiding professionals toward optimal opportunities and fostering long-term success. Establishing a strong relationship with a proficient Animal Health or Veterinary recruiter is not just advisable, but it can be a pivotal step in navigating a rewarding career path. I have placed multiple Animal Health executives and veterinarians, 4, 5 and 6 times throughout their career and they will refer to me as their career agent.
Caleb: Stacy, thank you so much for joining us today and for all of this great information about why professionals need an Animal Health recruiter or Veterinary recruiter.
Stacy: It’s been my pleasure, Caleb. and I look forward to the next episode in our series!
Caleb: If you are an Animal Health company needing to hire top talent reach out to The VET Recruiter. If you are a veterinary practice needing to hire veterinarians reach out to The VET Recruiter. If you are a veterinarian looking for a new position or an Animal Health professional looking to make your next career move reach out to The VET Recruiter. We will be back next week for the Animal Health and Veterinary Employment Insider!