Veterinary Voices – Détails, épisodes et analyse

“We’ve tried social media. It didn’t work.”

It’s something Julie South hears often from clinics that have already put time and effort into posting, sharing, and trying to build some form of presence online.

In this episode of Veterinary Voices, she continues the Where Vet Clinics Get Stuck series by looking at why social media so often disappoints — even when clinics are doing what they’ve been told to do.

Posting regularly.
Sharing updates.
Trying to show a bit of team life.

Because the issue isn’t usually effort.

It’s what that effort is being asked to do.

A vet or nurse doesn’t decide to apply because of a post in isolation.

They’re trying to answer a bigger question.

And when they go looking for that answer, what they find — or don’t find — matters far more than the post that first caught their attention.

This episode looks at four distinct reasons social media keeps falling short — from what candidates actually see, to how algorithms filter content, to why disconnected posts don’t build trust over time, and why many clinics are investing effort into the wrong platform entirely.

Stay to the end for a question about what your social media activity is really being asked to do.

In This Episode

00:57 – “We’ve tried social media. It didn’t work”
01:57 – The first problem: what vets and nurses actually find
03:54 – The second problem: algorithm filtering and reach
05:43 – The third problem: sound bites vs serial stories
06:26 – The fourth problem: platform (Facebook vs LinkedIn)
07:34 – What clinics can and can’t control
08:20 – A question about what people find when they look you up

Struggling to get results from your job advertisements? 
If so, then shining online as a good employer is essential to attracting the types of veterinary professionals who're a perfect cultural fit for your clinic.   

The VetClinicJobs job board is the place to post your next job vacancy - to find out more get in touch with Lizzie at VetClinicJobs

“We’ll just update our careers page.”

It’s a common response when recruitment isn’t working.

It feels like progress.
It’s visible.
It can be done in an afternoon.

BUT! A careers page sits inside a website built for a completely different audience.

Pet owners.

Not vets or nurses who are trying to decide whether your clinic is worth the risk of leaving where they are now.

That’s a different decision.

They’re not looking for polished claims.

They’re trying to work out:

What’s the team really like?
What happens on a hard day?
Are these my kind of people?

If they don’t find that, they don’t stay.
They keep scrolling. Looking.

In this episode Julie South looks at why updating a careers page rarely changes that — and what’s missing when someone lands there.

In This Episode

01:32 – “We’ll just update our careers page”
02:26 – Who your website is actually built for
05:03 – What vets and nurses are trying to work out
06:00 – What happens when there’s nothing to stay for
06:56 – Why updating a careers page feels like progress
09:45 – The difference between a door and a destination
10:41 – Two questions about what your careers page is really saying 

Struggling to get results from your job advertisements? 
If so, then shining online as a good employer is essential to attracting the types of veterinary professionals who're a perfect cultural fit for your clinic.   

The VetClinicJobs job board is the place to post your next job vacancy - to find out more get in touch with Lizzie at VetClinicJobs

By month five of job advertising, most vet clinics and their teams are exhausted.

Posting everywhere didn’t work. Rewriting didn’t work. Spending more didn’t work.

But the vacancy hasn’t just stayed a vacancy — it’s started affecting the people who are still there.

In this episode of Veterinary Voices, Julie South explores what happens when a role has been open for four to six months and the pressure inside the clinic starts to build.

Teams have been covering the extra work. The goodwill that carried the first few months begins to wear thin. Quietly, people start weighing their options.

That’s when the conversation inside many clinics shifts.

Instead of searching for the right fit, the thinking becomes: we just need someone.

Julie unpacks why this “warm body” thinking feels responsible in the moment — but often creates a far more expensive problem when the wrong hire lands in an already exhausted team.

This episode also looks at why the five-month recruitment cycle doesn’t end when a role is filled. In many clinics, it simply resets — except the team begins the next cycle already depleted.

And Julie explains the alternative: building recognition before you need to advertise, through Culture Story Centre infrastructure that allows vets and nurses to get to know your clinic long before a vacancy appears.

Because clinics that build recognition first rarely reach month five in their advertising at all.

Stay to the end for two simple questions that reveal which type of clinic you want yours to be.

In This Episode

00:00:06 – Introduction and the five-month recruitment cycle
00:01:16 – When more advertising and spending still doesn’t work
00:01:55 – What happens when a vacancy drags on for months
00:02:43 – The shift in team morale when “temporary” becomes permanent
00:03:44 – Quiet decisions exhausted team members begin making
00:04:49 – The arrival of “warm body” hiring thinking
00:05:51 – How desperation reshapes recruitment briefs
00:06:43 – When the wrong hire lands in an already stretched team
00:07:37 – The Job Application Decision Gap explained
00:08:45 – Why the five-month cycle simply resets
00:09:52 – Building recognition before you need to advertise
00:11:01 – Clinics that fill roles in month one or two
00:12:19 – Two questions every clinic should ask itself

Mentioned in This Episode

Cultural Visibility Stress Test

A short eight-question exercise designed to help clinics see whether the Job Application Decision Gap might be affecting their recruitment.

It takes about three minutes and is free to complete.

careers.vetclinicjobs.com

About Julie South

Julie South is the founder of VetClinicJobs and host of Veterinary Voices.

She works with forward-thinking veterinary clinics that want to move beyond reactive job advertising by building recruitment infrastructure that creates recognition before a vacancy appears.

When vets and nurses can see that a clinic is their kind of place, recruitment stops being a start-from-scratch exercise every time a role opens.

Struggling to get results from your job advert

Struggling to get results from your job advertisements? 
If so, then shining online as a good employer is essential to attracting the types of veterinary professionals who're a perfect cultural fit for your clinic.   

The VetClinicJobs job board is the place to post your next job vacancy - to find out more get in touch with Lizzie at VetClinicJobs

Catherine Neazor Brady - New Zealand licensed immigration advisor with over 20 years of experience in both recruitment and immigration - chats with host, Julie South of VetStaff.

Catherine and Julie discuss the intricacies of immigration for veterinary professionals looking to work in New Zealand.

Key topics covered in the episode include:

1. Recent changes in New Zealand's immigration landscape, particularly the fee increases set to take effect on October 1st. Catherine explains these changes, their rationale, and compares them to similar fees in other countries like Australia.
2. The distinctions between temporary and permanent visas, detailing the requirements and processes for each. Catherine elaborates on the "green list" for high-demand occupations, which includes veterinarians, and how this impacts the visa application process.
3. Employer obligations when hiring overseas veterinary professionals, including costs, responsibilities, registration fees, and job check requirements. This information is valuable for both clinics looking to hire international talent and for veterinary professionals seeking to understand their potential employers' perspectives.
4. Recognition of overseas qualifications, particularly for veterinary nurses. Catherine explains the assessment process conducted by the New Zealand Qualifications Authority and discusses how work experience can sometimes substitute for formal qualifications in certain visa applications.
5. The importance of working with licensed immigration consultants, highlighting the complexities of the process and the potential pitfalls of attempting to navigate it alone.

Throughout the episode, Catherine's unique combination of recruitment and immigration expertise provides listeners with a comprehensive understanding of the entire process, from initial job search to successful visa acquisition.

This informative discussion offers valuable insights for both potential immigrants and employers, providing a solid foundation of knowledge about the current veterinary immigration landscape in New Zealand.

Contact Catherine Neazor Brady:
Neazor Brady Immigration Consultants
Catherine at Linkedin

Struggling to get results from your job advertisements? 
If so, then shining online as a good employer is essential to attracting the types of veterinary professionals who're a perfect cultural fit for your clinic.   

The VetClinicJobs job board is the place to post your next job vacancy - to find out more get in touch with Lizzie at VetClinicJobs

Curious about why only 26% of Kiwi veterinary nurses plan to stay in their profession until retirement?

Join Julie South as she catches up with Associate Professor Laura Harvey, the President of the New Zealand Veterinary Nursing Association, who sheds light on this pretty grim statistic.

Julie and Laura talk about the unique challenges faced by New Zealand’s veterinary workforce, from rural and cultural dynamics to the impacts of poor remuneration.

With insights backed by the Boehringer survey, Laura provides a comprehensive look into the factors contributing to the high turnover rate and what can be done to support these essential healthcare professionals.

Julie and Laura also tackle the operational dynamics within veterinary clinics, emphasising the importance of distinguishing between the roles of veterinary nurses and receptionists.

With real-world examples from VetStaff, we illustrate how small clinics can thrive by clearly defining these roles, leading to significant improvements in efficiency and growth.

Packed with practical advice, this episode is a must-listen for anyone curious about the intricacies of veterinary nursing as a profession in New Zealand veterinary clinics.

Tune in for an episode that promises valuable insights and actionable advice!

Struggling to get results from your job advertisements? 
If so, then shining online as a good employer is essential to attracting the types of veterinary professionals who're a perfect cultural fit for your clinic.   

The VetClinicJobs job board is the place to post your next job vacancy - to find out more get in touch with Lizzie at VetClinicJobs

Kevin Bryant, CEO of the New Zealand Veterinary Association (NZVA), joins Julie South of VetStaff, us to share his passion and commitment to supporting veterinarians throughout their careers. 

From students to retirees, Kevin highlights the NZVA's pivotal role in championing the entire veterinary team.  

Often confused, listen as Kevin talks about the vital distinctions between the NZVA and the Vet Council (VCNZ), clarifying their unique roles and contributions to the veterinary sector in New Zealand.

Discover the extensive advocacy work spearheaded by the NZVA to improve animal welfare and veterinary practices. 

Kevin sheds light on efforts to empower trained veterinary nurses with specific dental procedures, campaigns against behaviour-modifying collars, and restrictions on public fireworks sales. 

Kevin and Julie also chat about the pressing issues of responsible antimicrobial use, veterinarians' roles in emergency responses through the One Health approach, and the crucial focus on workforce sustainability and leadership amidst economic challenges and workforce shortages. 

This episode is a must-listen for anyone passionate about the future of veterinary practice in New Zealand or who are considering moving to New Zealand to work as a veterinary professional.

Struggling to get results from your job advertisements? 
If so, then shining online as a good employer is essential to attracting the types of veterinary professionals who're a perfect cultural fit for your clinic.   

The VetClinicJobs job board is the place to post your next job vacancy - to find out more get in touch with Lizzie at VetClinicJobs

Join Julie South in this milestone episode of the Vet Staff podcast as she reflects on an incredible journey spanning 199 episodes, five continents, 100 countries, and 1400 cities. 

From its humble beginnings during New Zealand's 2020 lockdown to becoming a global platform for veterinary professionals, the podcast has defied the odds in a world where 90% of podcasts never make it past their third episode.

Julie shares a bit of the hard work, dedication, and passion that have fuelled the podcast's success, and she expresses heartfelt gratitude to loyal listeners around the world.

As the podcast evolves into "Veterinary Voices," Julie is excited to introduce a new chapter that continues to celebrate the veterinary profession in New Zealand and beyond.

In this episode, Julie previews the exciting line up of guests for the upcoming "Veterinary Voices," including Kevin Bryant, CEO of the New Zealand Veterinary Association, and Associate Professor Laura Harvey, President of the New Zealand Veterinary Nursing Association. 

With engaging conversations and inspiring stories, the new series promises to highlight the best of the veterinary industry in Aotearoa, New Zealand.

Don't miss out on this exciting transition! Hit the follow button on your favourite podcast app to stay connected and be part of the next 199 episodes celebrating veterinary excellence.

Struggling to get results from your job advertisements? 
If so, then shining online as a good employer is essential to attracting the types of veterinary professionals who're a perfect cultural fit for your clinic.   

The VetClinicJobs job board is the place to post your next job vacancy - to find out more get in touch with Lizzie at VetClinicJobs

What if the key to skyrocketing your veterinary practice's productivity lies in the counterintuitive strategy of slowing down?

Today, Julie South takes you on a journey through the art of effective time management that is so opposite to what you'd expect, it's paradoxically pretty amazing!

Discover how the Pomodoro technique—working in focused intervals with strategic breaks—can transform your workday.

Hear success stories and discover how you can implement similar work rhythm strategies in smaller veterinary practices.

You're guaranteed you'll find practical tips on setting aside time for special projects and upskilling your team, drawing inspiration from Atlassian's "Ship It Days."

Feel the power of achieving a flow state and get actionable steps to create distraction-free zones and extend deep work sessions gradually.

Julie shares the roadmap she uses for reorganising clinic rosters to suit your team's preferred working hours. By building teamwork and showing early wins, you'll discover how to overcome resistance and cultivate a happier, more creative, and resilient workforce.

Forget working harder; discover how working smarter can lead to a more adaptable and skilled veterinary team. Join Julie in this episode and embrace these innovative strategies to elevate your practice today!

Struggling to get results from your job advertisements? 
If so, then shining online as a good employer is essential to attracting the types of veterinary professionals who're a perfect cultural fit for your clinic.   

The VetClinicJobs job board is the place to post your next job vacancy - to find out more get in touch with Lizzie at VetClinicJobs

How familiar are you with the "protective" laws involved in reference checking?

Julie South from VetStaff explores the complexities of reference checks in New Zealand's veterinary profession. Prompted by an unusual request, she examines the legal risks of mishandling references, stressing adherence to the Privacy Act and Fair Trading Act.

Key Takeaways:

1. Legal Boundaries: Julie emphasises the importance of understanding the legal framework of reference checks, highlighting the consequences of Privacy Act breaches and the need for explicit consent.
2. Reference Checking: Learn how to verify reference authenticity and "triangulate" sources for reliable information, with practical tips for lawful checks.
3. Exit Agreements: Explore how exit agreements and non-disparagement clauses can lead to misleading references and how to uncover the truth.
4. Workforce Assurance Standards: Julie discusses standards by the NZ Public Service Commission to improve reference quality and prevent unchecked employee movement, advocating for similar standards in the veterinary sector.
5. Advice for Employers: The episode provides ten essential questions for reference checks and guidance on documenting feedback to avoid disputes.

Why Listen?

This episode is essential for veterinary professionals in hiring or job-seeking. 

Julie offers insights into the legal and ethical aspects of reference checks, helping listeners navigate recruitment confidently. Whether refining your hiring process or understanding your rights, this episode provides practical advice and discussions to enhance your understanding of New Zealand's veterinary recruitment landscape. 

Listen today to arm yourself with the knowledge needed to navigate the complexities of reference checks in New Zealand, protecting your professional journey and building a fair recruitment environment.

Struggling to get results from your job advertisements? 
If so, then shining online as a good employer is essential to attracting the types of veterinary professionals who're a perfect cultural fit for your clinic.   

The VetClinicJobs job board is the place to post your next job vacancy - to find out more get in touch with Lizzie at VetClinicJobs

Ever wondered if a career as a locum vet or vet nurse in New Zealand could be your next big move...?

This week VetStaff's Julie South explores the (sometimes) thrilling possibilities and (dreaded) daunting challenges of locuming in New Zealand's veterinary clinics.

From the (apparent) attractive perks of higher hourly rates and (perceived) flexible schedules to the potential pitfalls like financial instability and fleeting workplace relationships, she lays it all out. 

Discover how locuming can offer personal growth, the chance to test out different clinics, and the opportunity to work in varied settings. However, Julie also highlights the less glamorous side of the equation, such as unpredictability and the administrative burdens that come with the territory. 

Whether you're seeking adventure or need stability, Julie's analysis gives you the insights you need to make an informed decision.

Building meaningful connections within the veterinary community is essential, and in this episode, Julie invites you to connect with fellow veterinary professionals like your hosts, Julie South and her colleague, Tania Bruce. 

Share your location, leave reviews, and connect through VetStaff's website start building your supportive and connected workplace.  

Discover how to be the best version of yourself in your veterinary career while making impactful connections along the way. Your involvement not only helps us grow but also supports our mission of enhancing vet clinics' online presence. Tune in to discover how you can contribute to and benefit from this vibrant community.

Struggling to get results from your job advertisements? 
If so, then shining online as a good employer is essential to attracting the types of veterinary professionals who're a perfect cultural fit for your clinic.   

The VetClinicJobs job board is the place to post your next job vacancy - to find out more get in touch with Lizzie at VetClinicJobs