Episode #338 – Your Animal Health or Veterinary Job Search, Part 3
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’ll be finishing our series on “Your Animal Health or Veterinary Job Search.” Welcome, Stacy, and thank you for joining us today.
Stacy: Hello, Caleb. As always, I’m glad to be here with you.
Caleb: Stacy, we’ve covered a tremendous amount of information the past two weeks about a person’s Animal Health or Veterinary job search. What will we be exploring today as we wrap up this series?
Stacy: Once again, we’re going to talk about two main things. The first is the importance of conducting a passive job search, specifically the reasons for doing so. The second involves tips and strategies for conducting an effective job search.
Caleb: That sounds like the perfect way to end this series! How about we break down the concept of a passive job search. I know that we’ve addressed the topic before on the podcast, but for those who might be unfamiliar, what exactly does it entail?
Stacy: A passive job search involves keeping your options open and exploring potential career opportunities while you’re still employed and not actively seeking a new job. It’s about being proactive in managing your career trajectory and remaining receptive to potential advancements.
Caleb: That sounds like a strategic approach to career development. Now, you’ve outlined four compelling reasons why individuals should consider conducting a passive job search. Could you elaborate on each of these reasons for our listeners?
Stacy: Certainly, Caleb. Let’s start with reason number one: the elusive nature of the dream job. Many of us have an idealized vision of what our dream job looks like, but the reality is that only a minority of individuals actually find themselves in that coveted position. For the majority, their current role might be satisfactory, but it’s unlikely to align perfectly with their long-term aspirations. This misalignment is precisely why maintaining a passive job search is crucial—it ensures that you remain open to opportunities that could bring you closer to your dream job.
Caleb: That makes a lot of sense, Stacy. Now, onto reason number two: flexibility. Could you elaborate on how passive job seekers benefit from increased flexibility?
Stacy: Absolutely. Flexibility is a cornerstone of passive job searching. When you’re actively employed and passively exploring new opportunities, you have the luxury of being selective. Unlike those who are desperately seeking employment out of necessity, you can afford to hold out for a position that truly resonates with you. If a potential opportunity doesn’t meet your criteria or align with your career goals, you have the freedom to decline it without feeling pressured to settle for less. This flexibility empowers passive job seekers to make informed decisions about their career trajectory and pursue opportunities that genuinely excite them.
Caleb: Flexibility certainly seems like a valuable asset in the job search process. Now, onto reason number three: working from a position of strength. What advantages do passive job seekers have in this regard?
Stacy: Passive job seekers are essentially in the driver’s seat of their career journey. By actively maintaining a passive job search, they position themselves as desirable candidates who are actively sought after by employers. This puts them in a favorable negotiating position, as companies are more likely to offer competitive compensation packages and perks to entice them to join their team. Additionally, passive job seekers have the luxury of evaluating job offers at their own pace and can afford to be discerning when it comes to selecting the right opportunity. This empowerment enables them to make strategic career moves that align with their long-term objectives and aspirations.
Caleb: It’s clear that passive job seekers wield a considerable amount of leverage in the job market. Now, onto reason number four: making better decisions. How does a passive job search contribute to better decision-making in one’s career?
Stacy: Passive job seekers are presented with a wealth of opportunities and options, thanks to their proactive approach to career management. By remaining open to new possibilities and actively exploring potential avenues for advancement, they gain valuable insights into the job market landscape and industry trends. This exposure allows them to make more informed decisions about their career trajectory, as they have a clearer understanding of the available opportunities and how they align with their skills, interests, and goals. Furthermore, passive job seekers are less likely to make hasty decisions out of desperation, as they have the luxury of evaluating each opportunity carefully and selecting the one that best fits their needs and aspirations.
Caleb: It’s fascinating to see how a passive job search can lead to more strategic decision-making in one’s career. Now, for our listeners who are intrigued by the idea of passive job searching, what actionable steps can they take to get started?
Stacy: There are several key steps that individuals can take to embark on a successful passive job search. First, it’s essential to keep your resume updated regularly, highlighting any new skills, accomplishments, or certifications you acquire. This ensures that you’re always ready to seize new opportunities as they arise.
Second, networking plays a crucial role in passive job searching. Building and nurturing professional relationships can open doors to new opportunities and provide valuable insights into industry trends and job market dynamics. Attend networking events, connect with professionals in your field on LinkedIn, and engage in meaningful conversations with peers and mentors.
Finally, consider enlisting the services of a reputable recruiter who specializes in your industry or field of expertise. Recruiters have access to a vast network of employers and job openings, many of which are not advertised publicly. By partnering with a recruiter, you can gain valuable insights into the job market landscape and access exclusive opportunities that may not be available through traditional channels.
Caleb: Those are excellent actionable steps for our listeners to follow. Let’s shift gears now, Stacy, as we transition to our second main topic for the day, which involves tips and strategies for conducting a successful Animal Health or Veterinary job search.
Stacy: Of course. I’ve distilled down six essential strategies based on my extensive experience in the field.
Caleb: Can we explore each one?
Stacy: Absolutely! The first tip is to be open to opportunity, which I’ve discussed extensively on the podcast. I’ve also written articles and blog posts about the topic.
In today’s job market, it’s crucial to maintain an open mind when it comes to exploring new opportunities. This entails not only being receptive to hearing about potential roles but also actively considering and exploring them if they align with your career aspirations. Remaining flexible and adaptable in your job search approach can lead to unexpected and rewarding opportunities.
Caleb: Yes, we’ve addressed this topic multiple times. I can understand why it’s #1 on your list.
Stacy: Second is updating your resume and LinkedIn profile on a regular basis. Your resume and LinkedIn profile are your digital representations in the professional world and keeping them up-to-date is essential for staying competitive. Aim to refresh your resume and profile at least once every quarter to reflect any new skills, experiences, or achievements. This ensures that you present yourself in the best possible light to potential employers and recruiters.
Caleb: And of course, a person’s LinkedIn profile is not a substitute for their resume.
Stacy: That’s right! When a recruiter asks for your resume, do not say to them, “See my LinkedIn profile.” That’s not a best practice. Send them your actual resume. That is best practice.
Third on our list is researching organizations that you’re interested in working for. A proactive approach to researching prospective employers can significantly enhance your job search success. Take the time to familiarize yourself with the culture, values, and mission of organizations that align with your career goals. Explore their websites, social media channels, and industry news to gain insights into their work environment and current opportunities. This knowledge not only helps you tailor your applications but also positions you as a well-informed and engaged candidate during the interview process.
Caleb: I think the operative word you used there is “proactive.” That’s a big theme for conducting an Animal Health or Veterinary job search.
Stacy: That’s also correct! It pays to be proactive. Fourth on our list is preparing for video interviews.
With the shift towards remote work and virtual hiring processes, video interviews have become increasingly common in today’s job market. Proper preparation is key to making a positive impression and showcasing your skills and qualifications effectively. Start by familiarizing yourself with the video conferencing software or platform used by the employer.
Practice conducting mock interviews with friends or family members to refine your communication style and interview responses. Pay attention to your surroundings and choose a quiet, well-lit space for the interview. Dress professionally and ensure that your background is clean and professional-looking. Finally, don’t forget to send a thank-you note or email to the interviewers to express your appreciation for the opportunity.
Caleb: That’s one of the things that many people forget in this day and age. You have to thank employers for the opportunity for interviewing with them.
Stacy: Right once again! And that brings us to the fifth item on our list, which is investing in your soft skills.
While technical skills are important, employers also value candidates who possess strong soft skills. These include communication, interpersonal skills, emotional intelligence, and leadership abilities. Investing in developing and honing your soft skills can significantly enhance your employability and set you apart from other candidates. Consider enrolling in relevant training programs, workshops, or courses to strengthen your soft skills and demonstrate your value to potential employers.
Caleb: Five down and one to go, Stacy! What is your sixth and final tip for conducting an Animal Health or Veterinary job search this year or any year, really?
Stacy: Our sixth and final tip is to seek out recommendations and endorsements. Building a strong professional network and garnering endorsements from colleagues, mentors, and industry peers can bolster your credibility as a candidate. Reach out to former supervisors, colleagues, or clients and request recommendations or endorsements on platforms like LinkedIn.
These testimonials not only validate your skills and expertise but also provide valuable insights into your professional reputation and character. Additionally, maintain a list of professional references who can vouch for your qualifications and suitability for potential roles.
Caleb: Those are valuable tips for anyone navigating the job market, particularly in the Animal Health and Veterinary sectors. You also mentioned the importance of building relationships with recruiters. How can a recruiter assist individuals in their job search process?
Stacy: Recruiters play a pivotal role in connecting talented candidates with top employers in the Animal Health industry and Veterinary profession. With their extensive networks, industry knowledge, and insider access to job opportunities, recruiters can provide valuable guidance and support throughout the job search process.
They often have access to both visible and hidden job markets, allowing them to present candidates with a wide range of opportunities that may not be advertised publicly. Recruiters also offer personalized career advice, resume critiques, interview preparation, and negotiation assistance, helping candidates navigate the complexities of the job market with confidence and ease.
Caleb: It’s clear that recruiters can offer a wealth of resources and insights to job seekers. Before we conclude, do you have any final thoughts or advice for our listeners as they embark on their job search journey?
Stacy: Absolutely, Caleb. I would encourage listeners to approach their Animal Health or Veterinary job search with a proactive mindset, resilience, and adaptability. While the current job market presents abundant opportunities, success often requires dedication, perseverance, and strategic planning. By leveraging the strategies and tips discussed today, individuals can position themselves for success and achieve their career goals in 2024 and beyond. Remember to stay focused, stay positive, and keep pushing forward towards your professional aspirations.
Caleb: Wise words indeed. Thank you, Stacy, for sharing your wealth of knowledge and expertise with us today.
Stacy: It’s been my pleasure, and I look forward to our next episode of the Animal Health and Veterinary Employment Insider!
Caleb: Before we go today, I want to remind the employers on our show that if you need to hire one person or a team of people, The VET Recruiter can help you find top talent for your team. If you are an Animal Health industry professional or veterinarian wanting to be kept in mind for career opportunities, reach out to The VET Recruiter. Be sure to sign up for our newsletter on The VET Recruiter website that is full of hot Animal Health industry jobs and jobs for veterinarians. You will also receive monthly career tips from The VET Recruiter. The VET Recruiter is the Animal Health and Veterinary Executive Search and Recruiting firm. Thank you for joining us today and we look forward to connecting with you soon!