Whether you’re applying as a front desk receptionist, veterinary technician, vet assistant, practice manager, or veterinarian, veterinary job interviews can be nerve-racking. You’re not alone! Everyone feels the pressure, no matter how experienced they are.
I’m Austin, the Recruiting Manager for Vetcelerator, and as a recruiter who’s spent nearly five years interviewing professionals across every corner of veterinary medicine, I’ve seen just about everything. I can tell you this: preparation makes all the difference.
Let’s walk through what you can expect in your next vet clinic interview and how to stand out from the first phone call to the final handshake.
Tips for the Initial Vet Job Phone Screening
A phone screening is usually the first step for any veterinary job interview, regardless of whether the screening is performed by a recruiter or in-clinic staff. While it may feel casual, it’s often the most important. It’s your first impression, and it sets the tone for whether or not you’ll move forward. Make it count!
In veterinary medicine, scrubs are acceptable and often preferred. Many clinics might ask you to shadow or demonstrate your skills, and they understand you may be coming from another job. Just make sure they’re clean and professional.
This is one of the most important vet career interview tips: be yourself. You don’t need to come across as flawless. Instead, focus on being honest about your experience, your strengths, and even the areas you’re still working on.
Veterinary clinics aren’t looking for superstars. They’re looking for team players who are kind, reliable, and open to learning. Own what you know, but don’t be afraid to say, “I haven’t done that yet, but I’d love to learn.”
Every role in the clinic, from the front desk to the surgery table, matters. Highlight how you work with others, how you handle stress, and how you support your team. These traits are often evaluated in a veterinary job interview.
What Questions to Ask Veterinary Employers in Interviews
When it’s your turn to ask questions, this is your chance to shine and to figure out if the clinic is the right fit for you. Skip the basics like “When will I hear back?” and instead ask things that reveal the clinic’s values, team culture, and expectations.
Here are some great options for any veterinary role:
- “How would you describe the clinic culture, and where do you see me fitting in?”
(Insight into whether or not this particular clinic is a good fit for you.)
- “What do you personally enjoy most about working here?”
(Gives you a window into how team members really feel about the clinic.)
- “How does the team support each other during busy or stressful days?”
(Important for anyone working with clients or at the front desk.)
- “What would success in this role look like after six months?”
(Shows that you’re goal-oriented and thinking long-term.)
- “How do you typically onboard and train new team members?”
(Reassures you that you’ll be supported from day one.)
- “How does the clinic support continuing education or certifications?”
(Especially valuable for techs, assistants, and DVMs.)
- “If you could wave a magic wand and improve one thing in the clinic, what would it be?”
(A creative, non-threatening way to learn about potential challenges.)
- “Are there growth opportunities here in leadership, mentorship, or skill development?”
(Shows ambition and a desire to contribute.)
Having thoughtful questions like these shows that you’re looking for a veterinary workplace where you can grow and thrive.
Final Impressions Matter for Veterinary Candidates
Before you leave, thank everyone you spoke with, even the receptionist or assistant who greeted you. Veterinary medicine is a team-driven field, and how you treat everyone says a lot about who you are.
After the vet clinic interview, send a quick thank-you email to the practice manager or owner who interviewed you. Just a few sentences to express your appreciation and reiterate your interest can go a long way.
Conclusion
Interviewing for a veterinary position doesn’t have to be overwhelming. With the right preparation, a little self-awareness, and a willingness to be honest about your goals, you can walk into any clinic with confidence. Remember that while you’re trying to get a job, you’re also trying to find the right fit for you. If you are searching for a veterinary job in your area, recruiters at Vecelerator may be looking for someone in your area. Contact us directly to find out more.
