Talking about pay in the veterinary professions: William Brookes

When I started searching for my first job, I had no idea what I was looking for. I knew to look at salary and location, but my knowledge beyond that was minimal and I wanted to improve that to make the right choice. I decided my approach would be that the interview structure was just as much about me interviewing them as it was for them interviewing me… and I wanted to be prepared.

I first created a list of non-pay factors important to me. I found these displayed on job adverts, particularly in some of the extensive lists from structured grad schemes. Some examples from my list included: types of insurance cover, the type of support structure, and the opportunities to learn, particularly in areas of interest. I then made a shortlist of potential employers that fit the location I wanted. This then let me compare the jobs on my shortlist as to what they included or not, meaning I was prepared and knew what each job offered and, if anything, what I wanted to ask further information about or request.

Whilst it can be difficult to know when to have the conversations about this with a potential employer, I chose to approach the conversation in my interview and in post-interview discussions. Specifically, I asked for clarification on the non-pay benefits I had researched to gain further information as to how they are implemented. The practice I chose were already offering the non-pay benefits I had prioritised and had given me further information on them, so I had no need to negotiate further.

More information

"Good workplaces provide transparent, fair, and equitable pay for all employees, relevant to their respective roles.” - BVA Good Veterinary Workplaces policy position

William's blog is an excerpt from our new member resource: Talking about pay in the veterinary professions – a guide for employees, managers, and employers. 

The guide is about understanding pay and what it means for you, and creating mutual respect between employees and employers. It also discusses how to have effective conversations about pay and reward from all perspectives and offers information to empower individuals to know their rights and worth when it comes to pay.

It's free to download for BVA members.

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