Veterinary Recruitment Agency
Monday, 25 September 2023 04:42 GMT
Locum vets: Surviving the economic turndown
Do the maths: Can you afford not to be flexible?
There`s an old axiom in the veterinary profession that the field essentially is recession-proof. In the past, it appears that pet owners have continued to purchase necessary veterinary care. With pets increasingly seen as members of the family, many industry leaders have the sense that spending on veterinary care will remain a priority for pet owners.
Now even billionaire Warren Buffet saying he`s feeling the pinch, is it possible for the veterinary profession to emerge unscathed?
Unfortunately not, the last six months have shown us that the veterinary profession been affected by the economic turndown as well. We have seen a significant drop in the number of advertised positions throughout the UK.
We expect that this situation should ease significantly over the summer and the upcoming holiday period. Meanwhile, we ask our locums to take the following tips into consideration:
Fee review:
We do not recommend to anyone to increase their professional fees within the next six months. The economic recession in not only in the employer’s wallet but also in the employers mind! This year’s advice is very simple: Stick to your last year’s professional fees or risk to be out priced in an uncertain market!
Be more flexible:
Flexibility is the key issue to ensure an uninterrupted employment schedule. Everyone prefers long term locums. However, short term positions are on the rise. We adjust accordingly to it – and so should you! Further, be also more flexible with your travel arrangements and preferred location. There are always positions out there, so broaden your spectrum!
Speak to the practice manager or principle when you leave:
We advise that you make an effort to call for a debriefing meeting after your locum period. His shows to the practice that you care about their clients and their business and that you are not only there for the money. This also can give you a valuable feedback of your perceived performance. Furthermore, it puts you on their top list for their further locum requirements!
Keep cool:
We see clear indications that the market is picking up again. Keep in mind, that most of the UK vets are employees rather than employers and are therefore entitled to annual leave. This predicts only a short term drop in the locum market before everyone realizes that they still want to go on holiday.
Keep your word:
Nothing is more annoying than a cancellation of an existing agreement. Please keep in mind that it severely damages your reputation as a locum as well as a professional if you pull out from a locum position at the last minute. Word goes around fast and people will not deal with you again.
Keep in contact:
Please ensure that you inform Alpha Impact Locums well informed about your locum requirements. We now have locum requests for more than three month ahead and we will book our locums in accordingly.
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