As a newbie vet, networking is probably the last thing on your mind. But expanding your network and building a support system is integral to your success as a veterinary professional. Why? Because it means you will always have people to turn to when you need advice – or better, leads for new opportunities when you’re looking for a career pivot.
In this blog, we share our top three strategies for effective networking as a graduate vet.
1. LinkedIn (surprise, surprise)
An obvious first choice, but for a good reason. LinkedIn is an easy and effective way to reach out to experienced vets and build up your professional network. If you’re stuck with where to start, try joining relevant groups such as the British Veterinary Association (BVA) and the Royal College of Veterinary Surgeons (RCVS). It might also be useful to get involved with local vet pages so you can get to know fellow professionals in your area.
In terms of the basics, remember to include a clear summary and brief headline that captures your experience, as well as what you’re looking for. Top tip: include SEO-rich words that you would want your profile to come up under when searched (e.g. graduate vet looking for new opportunities).
Last but not least: keep your headshot professional and don’t be afraid to message people first! Find out more about the benefits of LinkedIn for vets in our previous blog here.
2. Be enthusiastic!
While most vets go into the profession because they prefer animals to people (we don’t blame you), it’s really important that you introduce yourself at networking events and build rapport with like-minded individuals. You don’t have to be the most extraverted person in the world to make a bit of small talk and share your interests and career goals – trust us, it’s worth making the effort. Show your enthusiasm for veterinary care and push yourself to be confident (in other words, work the room!). This might feel a little intimidating at first, but the more events you attend, the easier it will become.
3. Build rapport with colleagues
Networking is not just about meeting new people; it’s also about nurturing existing relationships. Cultivate connections with colleagues, professors, and alumni from veterinary school or previous workplaces. Stay in touch, offer assistance when needed, and show genuine interest in their work. These relationships can lead to referrals, collaborations, and valuable advice.
So there we have it – networking doesn’t have to be painful, it’s just about finding your tribe and using these opportunities to your advantage. You never know who you might meet, and which doors you might unlock along the way!
Get in touch with our lovely team on 0203 9784 104 to learn more about our current veterinary vacancies.
As a newbie vet, networking is probably the last thing on your mind. But expanding your network and building a support system is integral to your success as a veterinary professional. Why? Because it means you will always have people to turn to when you need advice – or better, leads for new opportunities when you’re looking for a career pivot.
In this blog, we share our top three strategies for effective networking as a graduate vet.
1. LinkedIn (surprise, surprise)
An obvious first choice, but for a good reason. LinkedIn is an easy and effective way to reach out to experienced vets and build up your professional network. If you’re stuck with where to start, try joining relevant groups such as the British Veterinary Association (BVA) and the Royal College of Veterinary Surgeons (RCVS). It might also be useful to get involved with local vet pages so you can get to know fellow professionals in your area.
In terms of the basics, remember to include a clear summary and brief headline that captures your experience, as well as what you’re looking for. Top tip: include SEO-rich words that you would want your profile to come up under when searched (e.g. graduate vet looking for new opportunities).
Last but not least: keep your headshot professional and don’t be afraid to message people first! Find out more about the benefits of LinkedIn for vets in our previous blog here.
2. Be enthusiastic!
While most vets go into the profession because they prefer animals to people (we don’t blame you), it’s really important that you introduce yourself at networking events and build rapport with like-minded individuals. You don’t have to be the most extraverted person in the world to make a bit of small talk and share your interests and career goals – trust us, it’s worth making the effort. Show your enthusiasm for veterinary care and push yourself to be confident (in other words, work the room!). This might feel a little intimidating at first, but the more events you attend, the easier it will become.
3. Build rapport with colleagues
Networking is not just about meeting new people; it’s also about nurturing existing relationships. Cultivate connections with colleagues, professors, and alumni from veterinary school or previous workplaces. Stay in touch, offer assistance when needed, and show genuine interest in their work. These relationships can lead to referrals, collaborations, and valuable advice.
So there we have it – networking doesn’t have to be painful, it’s just about finding your tribe and using these opportunities to your advantage. You never know who you might meet, and which doors you might unlock along the way!
Get in touch with our lovely team on 0203 9784 104 to learn more about our current veterinary vacancies.