Understanding what drives veterinary professionals’ job satisfaction and retention has never been more crucial for our industry. A comprehensive study by the University of Exeter and the British Veterinary Association has revealed fascinating insights into vets’ day-to-day experiences and their impact on career longevity.
The Core Factors That Matter
The research highlights three fundamental elements that shape vets’ workplace satisfaction and career commitment:
1. Feeling Valued and Admired: When veterinary professionals feel their colleagues value their input and expertise, they demonstrate higher confidence levels and stronger career ambitions.
2. Sense of Fitting In: Vets who feel they fit in with successful predecessors report better work-life balance and greater job satisfaction.
3. Access to Role Models: Having professional role models emerged as perhaps the strongest predictor of retention in the veterinary field.
Understanding the Work-Life Balance Challenge
The study revealed that only 50% of veterinary professionals feel they have a good work-life balance. Interestingly, the perception of work-life balance isn’t just about hours worked – it’s deeply connected to how well individuals feel they fit within the profession. When vets feel they belong, they’re more likely to view their work-life balance positively.
The Long Hours Culture
A significant finding concerns the profession’s culture of long working hours. The research showed that vets typically work between 44 and 49 hours per week. While this culture is widely acknowledged, its impact varies:
· Those who endorse long working hours show lower intentions to leave the profession
· However, challenging this culture could be key to improving career satisfaction and reducing burnout
Gender Insights
The study revealed several important gender-related findings:
· Female vets reported lower career ambition and confidence levels compared to male colleagues
· Women were less likely to be sought out by colleagues for advice and guidance
· Male vets reported working approximately five hours more per week than female vets (49 vs 44 hours)
Moving Forward: Creating Positive Change
For veterinary practices looking to retain talented professionals, the research suggests focusing on:
· Creating more opportunities for colleagues to seek ideas and advice from one another
· Ensuring accessible and attainable role models are available
· Developing clear routes to success for all staff members
· Challenging assumptions about long working hours
· Fostering an inclusive environment where all team members feel valued
The Bottom Line
The research makes clear that day-to-day experiences significantly shape vets’ workplace satisfaction and retention. While individual factors matter, the overall working environment and culture play crucial roles in maintaining a motivated, satisfied veterinary workforce.
By focusing on creating supportive workplace environments where professionals feel valued, can identify with role models, and find a genuine sense of belonging, practices can better retain skilled staff and foster long-term career satisfaction.
