Being an introverted veterinarian comes with its own set of challenges, especially in a field that often requires frequent interaction with clients, networking at events, and integrating into new work environments. But fear not! In this blog, we share our top tips for thriving as an introverted veterinary professional.
On networking events
- Do your research: Once you know you’re attending an event, do some research on the attendees, speakers and companies of interest. This way, you’ll be ahead of the game and will know who you want to speak to and what about. Hopefully, being prepared will reduce any anxiety you may have about approaching people.
- Play to your strengths: Introverts tend to be better listeners than speakers. Plus, most extraverted people love to talk – so let them! Prepare a handful of open questions to keep the conversation going but on the whole, active listening will serve you well at your next networking event. You might even learn a thing or two.
- Bring your duracell bunny colleague: If your social battery isn’t the fullest, why not bring one of your more extroverted colleagues? Let them work the room and do the small talk so you can network without having to do much of the leg work.
- Follow-up: And breathe! You got through the event – well done. But remember you still need to follow-up with those you met. Remember, you’ve already introduced yourself so the hardest part is over. Just be yourself and build rapport with those you got on with/have shared professional goals.
On talking to clients
- Listen intently: When interacting with clients, focus on active listening. Show genuine interest in their concerns and needs. Often, clients appreciate a veterinarian who takes the time to understand their pet’s situation thoroughly.
- Empathy is key: Put yourself in the client’s shoes and empathise with their emotions. Acknowledge their concerns and reassure them with your expertise and care. Building trust and rapport with clients is essential for a successful veterinary practice.
- Take breaks: Don’t forget to take breaks between appointments to recharge. Even extraverts need moments of solitude to regain energy and focus.
On starting a new role
- Get in early on your first day: This is already a given as it’s always a good idea to make a positive first impression upon starting a new role. Give yourself time to find your bearings and introduce yourself to your new colleagues before the working
day starts/one-to-one as they arrive.
- Don’t be too hard on yourself: Be patient! You can’t expect to be bestfriends with all your colleagues from the get-go. However, it is important to put yourself out there and make small talk (we know, it’s hard work). When the time comes when you need support you’ll be glad you did.
- Focus on your strengths: Talk about the things you know well – don’t feel like you have to be constantly ‘performing’ or witty during conversations as this is what will ultimately drain your social battery. Be yourself!
Being an introverted veterinarian comes with its own set of challenges, especially in a field that often requires frequent interaction with clients, networking at events, and integrating into new work environments. But fear not! In this blog, we share our top tips for thriving as an introverted veterinary professional.
On networking events
- Do your research: Once you know you’re attending an event, do some research on the attendees, speakers and companies of interest. This way, you’ll be ahead of the game and will know who you want to speak to and what about. Hopefully, being prepared will reduce any anxiety you may have about approaching people.
- Play to your strengths: Introverts tend to be better listeners than speakers. Plus, most extraverted people love to talk – so let them! Prepare a handful of open questions to keep the conversation going but on the whole, active listening will serve you well at your next networking event. You might even learn a thing or two.
- Bring your duracell bunny colleague: If your social battery isn’t the fullest, why not bring one of your more extroverted colleagues? Let them work the room and do the small talk so you can network without having to do much of the leg work.
- Follow-up: And breathe! You got through the event – well done. But remember you still need to follow-up with those you met. Remember, you’ve already introduced yourself so the hardest part is over. Just be yourself and build rapport with those you got on with/have shared professional goals.
On talking to clients
- Listen intently: When interacting with clients, focus on active listening. Show genuine interest in their concerns and needs. Often, clients appreciate a veterinarian who takes the time to understand their pet’s situation thoroughly.
- Empathy is key: Put yourself in the client’s shoes and empathise with their emotions. Acknowledge their concerns and reassure them with your expertise and care. Building trust and rapport with clients is essential for a successful veterinary practice.
- Take breaks: Don’t forget to take breaks between appointments to recharge. Even extraverts need moments of solitude to regain energy and focus.
On starting a new role
- Get in early on your first day: This is already a given as it’s always a good idea to make a positive first impression upon starting a new role. Give yourself time to find your bearings and introduce yourself to your new colleagues before the working
day starts/one-to-one as they arrive.
- Don’t be too hard on yourself: Be patient! You can’t expect to be bestfriends with all your colleagues from the get-go. However, it is important to put yourself out there and make small talk (we know, it’s hard work). When the time comes when you need support you’ll be glad you did.
- Focus on your strengths: Talk about the things you know well – don’t feel like you have to be constantly ‘performing’ or witty during conversations as this is what will ultimately drain your social battery. Be yourself!