Are you ready to turn your dream of working with animals into a reality? It is good that you begin at a vet’s office because it is a great way of getting some hands-on experience. Even though it is not easy for these jobs to come by, it is possible for you to increase your chances of getting one by paying attention to some tips. These are explained below.
How to find an opportunity? First, it is worth knowing that small animal clinics need many workers. Your best opportunity as a starter in the veterinarian industry will be at a small clinic as such clinics need a large support staff as they mostly board patients overnight or daily. Larger animal vets visit their patients at farms hence have only a single ‘ride long’ assistant moving with them. Secondly, do not depend on the classifieds. A variety of veterinarian jobs are never advertised; one has to seek them out. You should develop a list of clinics within your area by searching online. Some veterinarian clinics can post a ‘help needed’ ad in their window.
Get a veterinarian clinic’s attention. First, prepare a resume that has references. You should consider a brief introduction letter and avoid using the salutation, ‘to whom it may concern.’ You need to tailor your letter and resume to the particular clinic you are applying with. In case it is possible, consider taking the letter and resume to the clinic personally. This can create a chance of you being noted by the office manager or the vet himself/herself. Secondly, highlight relevant experience. Include any animal experience, for example, working at a farm or riding stable, bathing and grooming pets, dog walking, pet sitting, and more. If you possess a college degree or certifications related to the animal sector, point that out. In case you are a student who wants to pursue veterinary medicine, say so. Many aspiring vets secure positions as assistants while schooling and vets do much to help them succeed in the industry.
What to do during the interview. First, arrive on time and dress nicely. First impressions count and arriving late for an interview makes an employee wonder if you will always be late for work. The dress code reveals your personality. Secondly, offer a brief period of unpaid work prior to the clinic deciding whether to hire you as this will ease the task of getting your foot in the clinic. Thirdly, be open to the idea of working your way up.
After the interview? Immediately after the interview, write a thank you note because as much as a veterinarian clinic may not have openings currently, they tend to remember interviewees who are courteous as many applicants are not. You should also keep looking, that is, even though an interview goes well, do not sit at home and wait for a clinic to get back to you. Constantly send your resume and go for interviews at man clinics to expose yourself more and increase your chances of landing at a job.