The Art of Hiring Great Vets and Nurses: Overcoming Barriers in the New Normal
A new challenge has emerged for owners and leaders: the daunting task of recruiting new vets amidst a sea of change and self-doubt. The aftermath of COVID-19 has significantly altered the decision-making process for many, transforming what used to be leaps of faith into cautious steps filled with hesitation.
Gone are the days when the question "What's the worst that could happen?" was met with a shrug. The pandemic has shifted this narrative to "Anything could happen," amplifying the usual self-doubt and fears associated with major career decisions. This newfound apprehension is not just a phase; it's our new reality.
Through my work at Simply Veterinary Coaching, and in close collaboration with our sister headhunting firm, my team and I have become intimately familiar with this shift. We've seen first hand how, despite a smooth interview process, candidates often experience last-minute hesitations upon receiving an offer. This phenomenon has led us to develop an extensive toolkit designed to support individuals through these pivotal moments.
Why This Matters to You
As practice owners or clinical directors, navigating the subtleties of a candidate's decision-making process can be challenging. The dynamics between a prospective employer and a candidate are inherently complex, often making it difficult for you to glean the full scope of their concerns or hesitations. It's a common scenario: a candidate progresses through the interview process, perhaps even verbally agrees to an offer, but then decides to stay in their current position. These moments, when a change of heart leaves you wondering about missed signals, highlight the nuanced nature of recruitment.
The team at my headhunting firm have the advantage of engaging with candidates from a different vantage point. This unique position allows us to ask questions and explore concerns in a way that might not be feasible from within the practice. By delving into the psyche of candidates, we uncover the root causes of their hesitations, offering insights and support to navigate these complex emotions together.
From Insight to Action
As a practice owner or leader, tackling these recruitment challenges directly is essential to draw in and retain the industry's finest. But how exactly can you leverage these insights for impactful outcomes?
Allow me to introduce three exclusive strategies, each meticulously designed to revolutionise your approach to recruitment and secure the exceptional talent your practice deserves.
- Find Your Practice's Sparkle
Every practice has something that sets it apart, its own unique "sparkle." Identifying and articulating what makes your practice special is crucial. It's not about the size or shape of your practice but its heart and soul. Discovering and confidently communicating this essence gives potential hires a clear vision of what you stand for and how they can contribute to your practice's journey. Remember, alignment of values is key in today's job market.
Special Offer: Act quickly, and the next 10 respondents will receive 10% off our exclusive "Find Your Practice's Sparkle" session, designed to help you uncover and articulate your unique value proposition. Discount code: FINDYOURSPARKLE2024
- Conduct Awesome Interviews
Enhance your interview process with our PEC method, a three-step approach designed to engage candidates deeply and meaningfully. This method not only evaluates skills but also fosters a connection, helping candidates see themselves as part of your team. Discover our PEC method here.
- Provide a Clear Career Pathway
It's essential to hire with the future in mind, not just to fill an immediate vacancy. Demonstrating how a role fits into the broader vision of your practice can significantly impact a candidate's decision. Show them not just where your practice is now, but where it's going, and how they can play a role in that growth. Learn why this approach is effective.
For more insights and resources on veterinary recruitment, visit our blog.
If you would like some help getting recruitment ready, and getting recruitment right, book a consultation with me here.
