Career Pathway Programs To Retain Veterinary Employees

We know the demands placed on veterinarians every day in their practice, and they would not be able to function successfully without the credentialed veterinary technicians (CVTs) and veterinary assistants who work alongside them. These crucial members of their support team help distribute the work more evenly, enabling the clinic to operate more efficiently. However, there is a shortage of CVTs and vet assistants due to reasons such as lack of career advancement and inadequate benefits. It is important to run your clinic in a way that provides clear pathways for advancement for these CVTs and vet assistants who may be feeling burnt out and under-appreciated.

Here are some of my thoughts on how to establish a career pathway program at your clinic:

• Clearly define the career levels at your practice. What skills and qualifications are necessary to fill each role? What does the promotion/job progression process look like at your practice?

• Establish a program to teach the skills needed to advance employees’ careers. The only way for employees to feel like they are excelling in their patient care services is to train them in the professional skills needed to succeed. You could offer training classes or provide them with the opportunity to further their education and training.

• Ensure a positive, encouraging work environment at every level. Employees will feel motivated to improve their skill set if they feel like they are valued and their time in the training classes will be worth it.