Category: Career Tips

  • Was London Vet Show Your Career Development...

    Was London Vet Show Your Career Development Springboard?

    London Vet Show was super busy, so we’re offering you the same career development downloads we offered the folks that attended. Download Now!

    Posted: 27/11/2023

    Read Time/Watch Time

    5 minutes

    Who should read this?

    Veterinarians, vet nurses, vet techs, employers.

    Author(s)

    Adrian Nelson-Pratt

    Region

    Global content

    Was London Vet Show your career development springboard?

    As the dust settles on another London Vet Show, did you make the most of it for career development purposes? Or was it a recruitment opportunity for you instead?

    I’ve been going to LVS since the first event in 2009. In fact, I remember clearly arguing with the organisers about whether another show was needed, whether London was a good venue and whether delegates will travel. At the time I was Vet Affairs Manager for Hill’s Pet Nutrition, had a budget to manage and I wasn’t convinced. I’m definitely convinced now! 

    The 2023 edition definitely fulfilled the brief. We’re clearly over the post covid blues and into new territory with the scale of the show. Over twenty streams of CPD to dive into, hundreds of exhibitors and thousands of delegates. It was the busiest I’ve ever seen it and I think there was a real buzz about the place that sends a message – we may have been in the doldrums for a while and whilst we still have problems to solve in the profession, there’s an energy and engagement I’ve not seen in years. I think that leads to a healthy situation for those in the career development space. 

    Several observations lead me to that conclusion, aside from the obvious delegate throng. Firstly, the number of exhibitors was huge and it wasn’t just the usual companies. There were new entrants galore from across the globe. New products, technologies and services were everywhere, suggesting innovators and suppliers have confidence in the veterinary sector, investing in stands, promotions and giveaways. 

    Secondly, the scale of the investments and efforts to engage with delegates. Did you see the size of the sweet dispenser stand, the circus stand or the proliferation of sponsorship? When companies are working that hard to engage with delegates, you know that you’re a valuable commodity, your influence carries weight and that having you onboard is critical in a highly competitive market. 

    Finally, the breadth of content in the lecture streams. It’s expected that the RVC will deliver awesome clinical content, but to have multiple species, referral, career development, business, innovation and BVA Congress streams as well, speaks to the nature of a modern veterinary career. There’s no such thing as ‘just’ a vet or vet nurse anymore. 

    Given all the action, did you take advantage of the show as a career development or recruitment opportunity? If not, don’t worry, VSGD has you covered. We know you had a fab show, were super busy and perhaps didn’t get time to visit the VSGD Basecamp. We also know that a fair number of you won’t have made the London pilgrimage. 

     

    So it’s only fair we offer you the same career development downloads we offered the folks that attended. We’ve taken some of our most popular downloads and turned them into resources just for you. Each is intended to cover one element of veterinary recruitment or career development, whether you’re a candidate or a recruiter. Click this link to download them now.

     

    The Ultimate Guide to Getting Your Career Unstuck

    We’ve taken a coaching approach and provided you with a mini workbook. By posing you questions, giving you space to doodle and then helping shape your answers through reflective exercises, the workbook is designed to get you thinking and create some action. It’s a great starting point and perhaps a first step towards our Group Career Coaching or Personal Coaching Programs, which you can check out on our website

    The Ultimate Guide to DIY Headshots

    Your photo is the first thing people see with your online presence. Whether it’s for Linkedin, social media or as an avatar for an application, it’s critical to make a great first impression. If you missed the chance to get a photo at the VSGD Basecamp during London Vet Show, then our guide gives you hints and tips that are simple to follow at home. All you need is a smartphone and a little time to follow the guide. Get snapping!

    The New Grad’s Guide to Finding Your Ideal Workplace

    When you’re a new grad, asking the question about how your ideal workplace looks can be difficult, especially if you’re younger with limited work experiences. It can be difficult to identify what’s important, so this guide contains prompts and questions that will help you find insights from previous workplaces, school and experiences and draw insights from your past. We’ve included green and red flags too – markers of things you want or don’t want in that first role. 

    The Ultimate Guide to Finding Your Ideal Workplace

    When you’re in career development mode, one of the key questions is what your ideal workplace looks like. It can be difficult to identify what’s important, so this guide contains prompts and questions that will help you think back to previous workplaces and experiences and draw insights from your past. 

    The Smart Employer’s Guide to Making Job Ads Easy

    We absolutely understand that writing a job advert can be daunting and time consuming. Hurdles such as finding the right way to show off your clinic’s key features, being camera shy or feeling uninspired can get in your way. And how do you achieve a standout advert amongst the masses? Our guide gives you a framework to use and plenty of hints and tips to ease the process. 

    And if you’re still struggling, why not check out the VSGD Careers advertising platform? It brings web and social media together, adds unique live events and our team of copywriters to help you find your voice and write a breakout recruitment campaign. 

    Download the free e-guides for career development and veterinary recruitment NOW! 

     

    That’s London Vet Show wrapped for the year and hopefully your networking, contacts and follow up list will bear fruit in whatever step you take next in your career. We’re here to help throughout your career journey so if you need anything, drop us a line to hello@vsgd.co, make sure you ask the community in the Facebook Group and you never know where your vet passport might take you next. 

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  • An Introvert’s Guide to Attending an In-Person...

    An Introvert’s Guide to Attending an In-Person Conference

    So you are going to attend an in-person conference. Your excitement builds until you remember—you're an introvert. Mingling with strangers. Attending countless lectures. Engaging in small talk. These make you reconsider your decision already. But fret not, my introverted friend. You can reap the rewards of a conference without burning yourself out.

    Posted: 31/10/2023

    Read Time/Watch Time

    5 minutes hot tip at 2mins

    Who should read this?

    Veterinarians, vet nurses, vet techs, employers.

    Author(s)

    Sandra Milburn

    Region

    Global content

    An Introvert's Guide to Attending an In-Person Conference
    Maximise Opportunities Without Draining Your Batteries

    So you are going to attend an in-person conference. Your excitement builds until you remember—you’re an introvert.

    Mingling with strangers. Attending countless lectures. Engaging in small talk. These make you reconsider your decision already. But fret not, my introverted friend. You can reap the rewards of a conference without burning yourself out.

    Here’s how:

    1. Choose Intentionally

    You don’t have to attend every lecture, panel, and networking session on the conference schedule. Be strategic. Research the events that align with your goals and interests. That way, you make the most of your time without overexerting yourself. And yes, it is ok to allocate some ‘free time’.

    2. Pre-game the Game

    Before stepping into the conference hall, engage in some online stalking—uh, I mean, research. Check out the speakers, attendees, or companies that interest you. When you have a game plan, approaching people becomes less overwhelming. It’s like going to a potluck but knowing which dishes you want to try.

    3. Create a Social Buffer Zone

    Let’s be honest; even the idea of socialising can be exhausting. Consider bringing along a more extroverted friend or colleague who is happy to take the lead in conversations. They’re the icebreaker ship, and you’re comfortably cruising in their wake.

    4. Master the Art of Small Talk

    Sure, small talk can be challenging and uncomfortable. But think of it as the warm-up before your workout routine; it gets the juices flowing. You can move from talking about the weather to discussing your favorite panel. This opens the door for more meaningful conversations. Stay curious – I am often amazed at how much I can learn and pick up during these initial conversations.

    5. Recharge with Purpose

    Have intentional ‘decompression time’. Find a quiet corner or an outdoor spot to catch your breath and thoughts. Is there a space that’s designed to help you recharge? More conferences are catching on to this. Go check out the Wellbeing Room program at the London Vet Show. 

    Use this quiet time to jot down key takeaways or even breathe or meditate for a few minutes.

    6. Follow-Up Smartly

    The conference is done and dusted, you collected an assortment of business cards, and now you’re home. The final step is to follow up. Since introverts often excel in one-on-one settings, consider setting up virtual coffee dates or sending personalised emails. You’ve already made the first impression; now it’s time to solidify the connection.

    The Takeaway

    Conferences don’t have to be the bane of an introvert’s existence. They can be a great opportunity to grow, learn, and connect or re-connect- both with other people, but also with our purpose, values, and vision. 

    With some prep work, strategic choices, and scheduled downtime, you can navigate the conference seas without feeling like you’re drowning. Remember, it’s all about quality, not quantity. Now, power up your social batteries and make the conference world your oyster!

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  • Networking for people who hate networking

    Networking for people who hate networking

    Networking is critical and 90% of people on LinkedIn agreed, even though 40% find networking awkward... find out how to get rid of networking anxiety with our top tips.

    Posted: 29/09/2023

    Read Time/Watch Time

    5 minutes Top 5 list 1/2 way down.

    Who should read this?

    veterinarians, vet nurses, vet techs, employers.

    Author(s)

    Melanie Barham

    Region

    Global content

    Networking for People who Hate Networking

    If you don’t enjoy networking, you’re not alone!  40% of people on a recent LinkedIn poll said they do not enjoy networking, even though 90% recognized it as “critical”!  

    As a veterinary professional, you might also recognize how critical networking is to your success, especially as we are in a small field.  Most of the people we interview for our monthly career Q and As have leveraged their connections to land their jobs, or make career transitions, or even create jobs where there were none!  (Check out the replays here)

    Networking is critical as well if you’re a business owner, side hustle owner, or if you’re looking to break into speaking, consulting, or freelancing of any kind.  And how many people have been hired following a great conversation at an event?  

    So, we’ve established that networking is important… how can you make it less cringey and anxiety-inducing?

    Here’s our top tips to get comfortable with networking:

     

    1. Embrace the awkward

    When I learned how to become better at public speaking, I learned that it was always going to feel a little awkward for me, no matter how many stages I crossed or how many events I facilitated.  Now I know that feeling of anxiety and how it will play out, and how I’ve survived it and thrived despite it.  Let’s consider that those feelings of interacting in unknown situations are normal, but just like learning a new veterinary procedure, we get less nervous with time, and we learn to cope with them.  I take some deep breaths if I’m feeling a bit keyed up, and assume a power pose (cheesy but it works).

    2. Have a prop

    I watched my young children do this as they learned to enter new situations. They found it easier when they brought something with them as a conversation starter. For little kids, it’s a stuffy to talk about, or an interesting rock.  As adults, it can be a drink (“Have you tried the signature cocktail at the event?”), or even a statement piece of clothing that someone may comment on.  Even having a business card can be helpful after starting the conversation.

    3. Get some small talk questions prepped

    I remember back in the stone age when I started dating, and you had to call on a landline.  You had to speak to the boy’s parents and then make conversation awkwardly on the phone. My uber organized friend gave me a good tip: have a little cheat sheet of “nice parent questions” and “questions for the boy you are dating” questions banked to whip out should things get dull.  Luckily, there was no video calling, so you could definitely flip through your notebook to consult questions. I’m not even ashamed to admit I’ve used this tip.  “So what was your favorite lecture today?” at a conference, or “tell me about your family,” or “what’s new in your area?  What are you excited about?” Have a couple on hand, or consult when you take a bathroom break.

    4. Be curious, not desperate

    I always advise job seekers to simply approach people with curiosity when they network, as opposed to viewing the interaction as a transactional one where the end result is finding out if the person has a job you can apply to.  I prefer to advise that we approach with open ended questions, like a dermatology or behaviour consult- “Tell me about how you got to your current position?” “What do you like the best about your role?”  Most people will happily answer questions about themselves, especially if you seem interested.

    5. Lend value

    If you have an idea or thing you think they might benefit from, let them know. Maybe a book, movie, process etc.  “You know, you mentioned that you love Brené Brown as an author.  I wonder, have you read any …” 

    6. Segue into topics where appropriate 

    If you have a service or idea that you could offer or help solve for the person, it’s totally great to either gently discuss it at the time, or grab their card to follow up later.  “So neat that you’re thinking about bringing in speakers to your practice.  I love speaking. What topics are you thinking of this year?”   Or “Wow, that sounds really cool; love to see people thinking like you are.  Can I grab your card?  I’d love to stay in touch.” Then follow up with a nice email offering a further chat and some of your ideas or services if they are interested.


    Next conference or networking event, please make great use of your time, and remember that almost everyone there is as awkward feeling as you!

    If you still feel awkward or unsure about networking, or leveraging yourself into a new area, this is 100% an area coaching is helpful.  Check out our coaching services here or drop us a line.

     



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    I need some career support to work out what's next for me.

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  • How to believe in that little idea...

    How to believe in that little idea you have

    How to summon your courage and believe in yourself. Top tips and inspiring community members.

    Posted: 27/09/2023

    Read Time/Watch Time

    5 minutes

    Who should read this?

    veterinarians, vet nurses, vet techs, employers.

    Author(s)

    Melanie Barham

    Region

    Global content

    How to believe in that "little" idea you have

    Will you believe in yourself?  Will you say your idea out loud?

    When I started writing about non-clinical careers in vet med, it was an idea I kept quiet in my head for a LONG time.  To be honest, I was so shy about the idea, about standing out or being a tall poppy that for a long time I just researched it, getting deep into articles about how to build a website and blog.  Imagine if I had never done anything?  I’d have missed out on a lot of cool things.

    I see this time and time again, where people in our profession have a super idea they are afraid to say out loud, let alone bring it to reality.  Not even letting that idea ever be said aloud.

    Down with that, friends.  

    What a shame it would be to get to the end of your life, career, or year and have never ever taken a chance.  What waste os exceptional brain power- yours!

    Since the days when I couldn’t even say that I wanted to share stories of non-clinical careers, I’ve gained a lot of confidence, a global community of colleagues, and so so much.  

    I LOVE cheerleading people to bring their ideas to light; it brings me so much joy and energy, and I love hearing how people have summoned their courage and done something amazing with their idea.  Most of them, like me, have watched that tiny bit of courage grow into new avenues and opportunities they didn’t even know existed.  

    As a recovering “hide your light under a bush” person who almost didn’t get up the courage to write that first blog, here’s a few top tips I can share if you’re feeling the same way.

    1. Write your idea down
    2. Share your idea with people who deserve to hear it
    3. Take 1 small first step, and then another
    4. Remind yourself of other times you’ve been brave and it’s been ok
    5. Write out the worst case scenario
    6. Watch Ted Lasso (not joking, I love this show)

    If you’re looking for support as a leader or an individual, check out group career coaching in the UK and North America.  We’ve helped people like Emily Singler from Vet Med Baby take her big idea from dream to reality. It makes change possible.  And we’ve got 10 cohorts of success to show it! 

    There’s still time to register for the fall cohort- check it out now HERE!

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    I need some career inspiration.

    I'm looking for a new job/career path.

    I need some career support to work out what's next for me.

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  • How to make change easier on yourself

    How to make change easier on yourself

    Here's some top tips from change science (yes, it's a real thing!)

    Posted: 05/09/2023

    Read Time/Watch Time

    5 minutes

    Who should read this?

    veterinarians, vet nurses, vet techs, employers.

    Author(s)

    Melanie Barham

    Region

    Global content

    How to make change easier on yourself

    Why is change so hard to make happen?

    I remember how “easy” it was for me to set my mind to applying o vet school.  It was arduous, and hard to study that much, but I did it with relative ease.  Other change like career shifts, changing how you work, bringing new ideas to your team…. so much harder.

    What gives?

    Change science tells us that change is more successful when:

    • You are in a supportive environment
    • You aren’t the only change agent
    • There are others who are going through the same thing
    • You have tools and support to succeed

    Hm, this does sound like I had the ingredients for success in applying to vet school.  Climb Mount Chore Re-evaluation… not so much.  

    Here are some additional top tips for making change easier on yourself from leading change scientists:

    Examine your competing beliefs

    Kegan and Lahey described the Immunity to Change process in their book (which I recommend so much I should be their brand ambassador).  TL;DR version: you might have a goal or change in mind, but you won’t be successful at making it happen if you have a competing belief.

    Willpower alone will not cut it

    The theory of willpower posits that, “I want the change to happen, so I’ll make it happen!”  But there are very few people in the world who actually achieve all their goals on willpower alone (American Psychological Association, 2021).  It is ONE change model, but for some reason, willpower has become an overwhelming, overarching singular theory.  

    Are you ready to make changes?  Is your team or the people around you?

    Evaluating readiness for change is part of the principle used in motivational interviewing (underpinned by the transtheoretical model of change… say that 5 times fast!).  Turns out, there’s at least 5 steps in being ready to really make a lasting change. So, if you are roadblocked, it could be that you (or your team), are stuck at the beginning phases of change, or haven’t made the leap to the next phase.  The good news is that using techniques like coaching can help you understand yourself and what you need to move to the next phase to make change happen.

    Evaluate what you are in control of, and what you’re not

    Often with change, we expect that we can change everything, or if it doesn’t ALL happen the way we want, it was a failure.  The theory of “Circles of Control” is a useful one to help set realistic expectations for success.  There’s a small circle that you can control directly.  There are areas you can influence, and areas you can have concern for also.  Don’t get stuck defining successful change by things you have no control or influence over.   Don’t get defeated by setting goals that you have no control over.  You can’t control if you’ll get hired, but you can control how many jobs you apply for, how much effort you put in, and how you show up for interviews etc.  Own what you can, and let go of the control of the rest.

    (image credit Positive Psychology, 2023)

    Change can feel hard, whether that’s leading the charge for a team, making changes to your career or job, or simply renegotiating your life and work parameters.  You don’t have to go it alone.

    If you’re looking for support as a leader or an individual, check out group career coaching in the UK and North America.  We’ve got all those elements of success included, for good reason.  It makes change possible.  And we’ve got 10 cohorts of success to show it!

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    I'm looking for a new job/career path.

    I need some career support to work out what's next for me.

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  • When something’s got to change

    When something’s got to change

    If you feel like you're out to sea, flailing about, you're not alone. Here's what to do!

    Posted: 21/08/2023

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    5 minutes

    Who should read this?

    veterinarians, vet nurses, vet techs, employers.

    Author(s)

    Melanie Barham

    Region

    Global content

    When something's got to change

    As a mom, professional, and CEO, I’ve felt like I was on the edge of managing way too much many times.  Life can be overwhelming, and I know I’m not alone.

    Honestly, the image I have in my head at these times is a recurring one: me riding a large old fashioned bicycle teetering on the edge of a cliff with a very thin track to stay on, and me merrily cycling along in a straw boater hat with a glib smile on my face yelling, “EVERYTHING IS FINE!”  Yes, like some kind of Mary Poppins meme!

    At those times, I’ve made changes.  Big ones.  (I’m sure you’re not surprised; that image of me on the brink of madness is pretty graphic!)  Maybe you have lives similar times.

    Here’s some of the things I have done when I have felt like “things needed to change around here!”

    I’ve changed jobs.  Got help.  Been blunt.

    If this has ever been you, or if you’re at that breaking point where you feel stuck and unable to continue,  riding a wobbly bicycle on the edge of “this is way too much”…. Stop your scroll.  

    Come back to me.  

    You CAN make changes in your career, your life, your work parameters and home parameters.  

    Is it easy?  Not alone, no.  Making changes is seriously tough when you’re alone.  

    Here’s 5 things that have made change easier for me and many other people in their transitions to different life and work parameters:

    1. Make some breathing room

    Take a break, get your spouse to take the kids somewhere else, cancel everything.  Get yourself some brain space.  Even if it means disappointing someone, they’ll recover.  See what you can remove from your schedule.  Just go for a 10 minute walk, or do a short journalling or meditation session.  

    2. Pad yourself with people who care and who can support you in the way you need right now

    Know that not everyone is able to support you in the way you need, and that is A-ok.  My super blunt and direct friend is NOT who I call when I need a soft hug.  It’s ok if you don’t have anyone to do this, or you don’t feel like you have the right people in your corner. This is why coaches, therapists, and other impartial people can be so helpful.

    3. Get help- turn towards connection, not away

    Reach out to a colleague, mentors, or a coach.  And if you feel that you need additional support or aren’t sure if mental health struggles are at play, please pay a visit to your doctor or health provider.  It’s not weak to ask for help.

    4. Go easy on yourself

    Being at the precipice of change is not easy.  It’s messy, and we rarely do it perfectly.  It’s ok.  Be kind; you’re doing your best.

    5. Really: please go easy on yourself

    Yes I’m saying it twice for those in the back, and because we vet med enthusiasts need this reminder at least twice.  Making a change in how you do vet med is not a failure.  Changing parameters about your life is not embarrassing; it’s a sign of being reflective and making good choices.

     

    Change is hard, especially when your world is moving so fast you can’t even think straight.  This is why VSGD came to be in the first place!  

    And it’s why we firmly believe in offering support through programs like our group coaching program.  We are here for you if you’re ready to make your career more sustainable no matter your role.  Employer, parent, student, job seeker, stuck in chaos professional, or just as a person.   

    If you need support to get to career sustainability and satisfaction, we’re got life boats at the ready!  Group coaching sessions are available in North America and the UK and we have individual coaching sessions as well.  Check it out below, or fill in the survey and book a char to see if it’s right for you.

    It IS important to note that if you are struggling with mental health issues, please visit your doctor or mental health provider.  Coaching is not a substitute for medical care or therapy.  

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    I'm looking for a new job/career path.

    I need some career support to work out what's next for me.

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  • Are you slipping or sailing?

    Are you slipping or sailing?

    If you feel like you're out to sea, flailing about, you're not alone. Here's what to do!

    Posted: 15/08/2023

    Read Time/Watch Time

    5 minutes

    Who should read this?

    veterinarians, vet nurses, vet techs, employers.

    Author(s)

    Melanie Barham

    Region

    Global content

    Are you Slipping or Sailing?

    Slow your scroll to take a moment to assess

    I read an interesting report from the Mom Project that reported on the challenges of summer childcare and logistical juggling for working parents, and particularly moms.  

    Workplaces in summer are often short staffed, and none more than vet businesses with a shortage of veterinary professionals.  Overwork is a common complaint, or coverage and staffing.

    I have to ask: are you sailing on calm waters right now?  

    Or do you feel like you’re floundering around without a life jacket in rough seas?  

    If you’re sailing on calm seas without a care in the world, I’d love to know what helped make it stress free and smooth for you.  Tell me all the things!

    If you’re more in the floundering/drowning category, here’s 5 questions to ask yourself to “coach yourself”.  If you’re overwhelmed, please just pick one.  (Overachievers, I see you… just pick one!)

    1.  What’s one thing that you could do today to help make your day easier right now?

    Maybe this is a quick walk, a meditation, or a simple grounding exercise (5 things you can see, 5 things you can touch, 5 things you can hear).

    2. What is one item you could offload or say no to right now?

    NOT picking up groceries tonight.  

    3. Who or how can you ask for help with one small thing?

    This doesn’t even have to be asking a person for something. Sometimes getting the help you need is ordering dinner in/getting takeout, or doing click and collect groceries.  

    4. What’s one thing that’s brought you joy in the past 24 hours?

    If you’re on the churn of overwhelm and flailing, this is one thing I’d pick to do.  For me, one day when I was utterly exhausted and could see no good in the world, I challenged myself to find one joyful thing.  It was my little boy smiling at me, and feeling warm sun on my face as I walked to feed my animals.  It didn’t stop the surrounding chaos, but it calmed and centred me.

    5. If I could imagine myself being past this time, maybe 6 months down the road, what would be different?

    This helps us see what is possible, and why this time of struggle is worth going through to get to better times. This question can also clarify what we’ll never do again.  

    I see you, struggling, flailing, overwhelmed person.  I see how hard you’re working, and even if you feel like you’re failing, I guarantee most other people in your life have a different vision of how you’re doing.  Take a deep breath.  You’ll get through this, and it doesn’t always have to be this way.  

    If you need support to get to career sustainability and satisfaction, we’re got life boats at the ready!  Group coaching sessions are available in North America and the UK and we have individual coaching sessions as well.  Check it out below, or book a chat to see if it’s right for you.



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    I'm looking for a new job/career path.

    I need some career support to work out what's next for me.

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  • How to avoid vacation burnout

    How to avoid vacation burnout

    And return refreshed, energized, and ready to go. Seriously. Even with kids!

    Posted: 27/06/2023

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    5 minutes

    Who should read this?

    veterinarians, vet nurses, vet techs, employers.

    Author(s)

    Melanie Barham

    Region

    Global content

    How to avoid vacation Burnout

    Did you know in summertime we see an increase in people looking for career changes? While I haven’t done a case controlled study, I think it is due to people taking time to reflect, get aligned with what matters to them, and that gets them thinking about how they spend their days… at work!

    Now, if you’re like me, “vacation” are termed loosely, as our kids are busy, and so are vacations. I work hard to make them rest and recharge times so I CAN come back energized with new ideas.

    Here are 5 things you can do this summer to make your time off more of a recharge:

    1) Be realistic
    I’m going to be honest, I’d LOVE nothing more than to devour 10 leadership books, trashy beach reads and high brow fiction, and long hikes. But vacationing with two kids is not the kind of vacation that allows for this. Whatever your season of life, or traveling companions, be realistic about what you want to do to relax. I enjoy listening to a podcast or journaling as a way to amplify my time off and make it more restful, coupled with lots of exercise and outdoor time in short bursts with my kids.

    2) Get early morning light
    Early morning light improves our mood, modulates our circadian rhythms, and livens up our brain. Every morning when we camp, I take a coffee out and sit with my journal or book for a few minutes. Let’s be honest, it is only a few minutes before someone wants breakfast, or a bike ride, but that few minutes is something I hold on to all year long (and I try to do it at home too).

    3) Embrace the joy
    It can be stressful to go on vacation (#firstworldproblems right?) The hustle, bustle, and madness of getting ready to go away and get everything squared away at work can be challenging. Wherever you can, choose the easier road, and choose the joyful thing. If it means everyone takes a dip in the lake before bed to avoid cleaning faces and hands after dinner and wrestling small kids into jammies unwillingly, I’m in. If it means the house isn’t perfectly clean before departure, so be it. It’s ok. Be present, have fun, and take a photo with your mind of these moments that you can recall later.

    4) Reflect
    One of the nicest things I did last summer was go for a 5km kayak ride with my close friend Alix while we were on vacation. We paddled away from shore, leaving the kids and dads to their beach fun. The water was clear and you could see right to the bottom to the granite rocks below. When we reached the island we were paddling for, we stopped for a swim and a chat. We talked about the things we loved about our lives right now, and what we wanted in the future.

    I’d encourage you to think about what you’re loving about your life right now too, and what you want more of and less of in the coming year. Sometimes change comes to you like a lightning bolt idea, and other times the answer is “I’m in the exact right place.” Our 5 days of coaching clarity is a great one for prompts- available free here.

    5) Scroll intentionally
    I wish I was one of those fab people who do an electronics cleanse during vacations. I don’t. But what I do is set my intentions. I scroll through things that matter to me, and avoid topics and sites/apps that are upsetting or negative to avoid eliciting a secondary trauma response. I do scroll through things that might inspire me, get my mind thinking. If you’re thinking of a career swap, why not focus on a VSGD community, or LinkedIn, or search the company profiles on VSGD.co?

    I hope your vacation allows you all the things you need: rest, relaxation, joy, activity, time outdoors and time spent with people or pets you love.

    If you want to get in touch about coaching for your business or career, check out our coaching page here. We offer free discovery calls where we chat through your needs and discuss if coaching is right for you, or another resource!

    Come on the journey with Vets Stay Go Diversify

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  • Microvalidations: an antidote for difficult days

    Microvalidations: an antidote for difficult days

    Are you supporting your team and self with positive interactions? Here's how to use microvalidations to increase resilience, team cohesion, and improve your work life satisfaction

    Posted: 05/06/2023

    Read Time/Watch Time

    5 minutes

    Who should read this?

    veterinarians, vet nurses, vet techs, employers.

    Author(s)

    Melanie barham

    Region

    Global content

    Microvalidations: the antidote to Difficult Days

    The Gottman Institute says in healthy relationship, you should have at least 5 positive interactions for every negative one.  This applies to co-workers as well, and direct reports. Building other people up gives us as much or more of a hit of dopamine as receiving one, and it also boosts serotonin (see this article here).  If you want to be more satisfied in your career, and have a team that feels the same, read on!

    So I’ve known that Gottman stat for a while, but often thought: “cool; how do I do that consistently?” 

    On Friday, I read this article from HBR  and it struck me like a lightning bolt.  Microvalidations are small, impactful appreciations of someone’s character, work, or contributions.  They are the antidote to micro aggressions and negative interactions.  

    I loved the concept of micro validations, but what struck me was that I can remember EVERY SINGLE microvalidation that an employer has given me.  I didn’t know they were called that at the time, but the name is fitting.  One boss used to stop me before I left every day, and even on the crummiest day, he would say, “Melanie, thank you so much for your hard work today.” There would often be a specific example too. He shared with me that that had become his habit many years ago to never let an employee leave without hearing those words.  

    Providing micro validations isn’t limited to bosses and “bigwigs.”  We are all part of teams, and we rely on one another for success and especially when we have difficult days.  

    Microvalidations also increase our resilience and team cohesion, and interestingly, they have a great effect on us too.  

    After reading the article, I stopped, and took 15 minutes to send each member of my team a slack message.  It was a great way to end a Friday.  

    Here’s how you can try it too:

    1. Be specific
    2. Use their name
    3. Be sincere
    4. Write a note, call them up, send a text, or say it before they leave.

    e.g., A text to a new RVT/RVN: “Claire, I really appreciate your attention to detail, and how you are kind with your reminders to me when I forget something.  I’m so glad to have you on our team.”

    Here are some other ideas to use also:

    • Say thank you at the end of the day to your employees
    • Leave a note on their desk
    • Praise them in an external meeting in a specific manner “Sarah is incredible at pulling together the most difficult information and making it into a cohesive outcome; I’d love for her to take this on.”

     

    How do you micro validate people in your life?  What results have you seen from this technique or others on your satisfaction and the people around you?

    If you’re looking for more inspiration and support like this in your career, check out our coaching.  VSGD has a wide array of qualified coaches to help support teams, individuals, and career transitions as they seek to create satisfying workplaces and careers.  Having expert support with frameworks, research, and tested techniques can amplify and accelerate your success and goals.

    Chalkboard surface with the words "be kind" written

    Come on the journey with Vets Stay Go Diversify

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    I'm looking for a new job/career path.

    I need some career support to work out what's next for me.

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  • If You Are Feeling Lost, Start Here.

    If You Are Feeling Lost, Start Here.

    With these tips, you can confidently navigate the resources offered by VSGD and gain a better understanding of your next career steps. Remember that being "lost" doesn't mean you're stuck; there are always ways to progress.

    Posted: 28/05/2023

    Read Time/Watch Time

    10 minutes

    Who should read this?

    veterinarians, vet nurses, vet techs

    Author(s)

    VSGD

    Region

    Global content

    If You Are Feeling Lost, Start Here

    1. Take a deep breath.

    It’s not uncommon to feel a bit overwhelmed, whether this is stemming from dissatisfaction in your career, frustration around not knowing what steps to take first, or stress about how to fit in something this important around a busy schedule.

    The good news is that there are plenty of people just like you who have been there before and know what you are going through! We are building a supportive community to help guide you through this so that you can ultimately find the career path that is right for you, whether that means Staying in practice, Going on to new pastures, or Diversifying within the veterinarian field.

    2. Create your candidate profile.

    Take action and craft a standout candidate profile with us. This is the ultimate way to showcase your unique abilities to potential employers, whether you’re seeking to make a career pivot or looking to document your experiences and competencies for negotiating promotions or salary increases. We also encourage people to put themselves out there (if you don’t ask, then you don’t get). Reverse Recruitment is a great way to find a role that was built just for you.

    Employers also have the opportunity to showcase their business values by creating company profiles.

    3. Let us help with your job search.

    At VSGD, we have launched a jobs board that provides you with a variety of roles to choose from based on your needs. We firmly believe in the importance of transparency and flexibility in negotiations between companies and their future employees. Our job board features a range of clinical and non-clinical roles, with options for both full-time and part-time positions, as well as the ability to work from home. Be sure to explore our “Interview the Boss” sessions to gain further insight into the employers.

    4. Check out our career coaching services.

    We offer a dynamic developmental group coaching programme to help veterinary professionals gain the support and clarity to take control of their own careers, empowering them to identify their next steps towards a career that works for them. This is in partnership with VDS Training and guests. Find out more information here. Looking for 1-1 coaching for instant results? Check out our career coaches here.

    5. Think about all your transferable skills.

    Write down all the things you are good at, enjoy and would like to do more of. It’s important to focus the things you WANT to do, the things you feel passionate about or feel naturally drawn to rather than just the things you dislike or want to rule out.

    To become a veterinary professional you will have no doubt garnered an amazing skillset unique to you. Think about all the experiences you have had that led you to this point. Many of these skills are transferable inside and outside the clinic, for example:

    • Client management, team management, ability to work both alone and in a team

    • Empathy, patience, resilience

    • Problem-solving, critical thinking, ability to learn quickly

    • Teaching, mentoring, leadership

    Sometimes it’s hard to work out what you want to do with all these skills. VDS Training advisors Carolyne Crowe and Penny Barker present this webinar on “Working out what you want” in conjunction with VSGD.

    You can also check out the excellent session from VSGD LIVE! by Adrian Nelson Pratt on “Stop Selling Yourself Short- A CV and Interview Clinic” if you want help to dust off that CV into something that sells YOU!

    Need further CV/Resume support? Invest in yourself by looking at our CV review and branding packages.

    6. Find your ‘people’.

    It never hurts to expand your social and professional network. Which is precisely why we run fantastic events to facilitate this! VSGD celebrates the diversity of talent, expertise, and skills originating from the veterinarian profession. The VSGD groups are intended to provide a forum for free, independent and safe exchange of information between veterinary professionals considering diversification of their careers as well as for professionals to receive advice on how to remain satisfied in the clinic. Taking action and surrounding yourself with other career pioneers in the community can really give you the spark that you may need. Come to an event or chat with us in the VSGD online forums – we’re sure you’ll find people you vibe with!

    Vets: Stay, Go or Diversify

    VSGD Careers

    Vets: Stay, Go, Diversify – North America

    Vets: Stay, Go, Diversify – Down Under

    These are closed groups, not directly available to the public. Membership of the groups are limited to those with direct interest in the aims and objectives of the group. Members must have a vet degree, a qualified nursing/tech degree, or be students of respective training.

    7. Check out our resources.

    We have compiled career interviews of career pioneers, as well as practical blog posts on pertinent topics to help motivate you and online courses for support on landing that job and understanding the power of negotiation. PLUS we have loads of CPD video content available to stream online, recorded from our live events.

    We also offer Secret Support for anyone wanting to ask a question to our community anonymously. Secret Support allows for safe, open, honest and anonymous discussion of sensitive topics with other members of the community. We cover all kinds of topics and welcome any kind and constructive comments regardless of viewpoint. Email us at community@vsgd.co if you have something that you would like to be shared with our Facebook community.

    8. Let’s stay connected.

    Subscribe to our weekly newsletter and stay ahead of the game with the latest events, job postings, and words of wisdom on how to uplift and fulfil your career. Trust us, your inbox will be filled with career inspo that you won’t want to miss.

    Need more help?

    We are here to help. We have an amazing, supportive community, and tonnes of resources! Email us and let us know what you need. We’ll do our best to point you in the right direction.

    Come on the journey with Vets Stay Go Diversify

    I need some career inspiration.

    I'm looking for a new job/career path.

    I need some career support to work out what's next for me.

    Newsletter

    We send out regular updates with articles about creating a sustainable career in vet med, along with job opportunities and more. Employers, we’ve got great articles for you too!

    Continue Reading

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