I know you may not think so, but you KNOW what you’re doing.
Our Ready, Vet, Go mentee pack meetings are a constant reminder that today’s new grads know medicine. Vet schools are doing a fine job preparing you and your peers to handle real cases.
But once you’re out of school, self-doubt creeps in, and the confidence you built in academia can be eroded.
Here’s a simple guide to help you crush your limiting beliefs in the most common new grad scenarios.
The client says, “That’s not how Dr. Jones would do it.”
First, breathe. Then, remember that clients trust the familiar! Pet parents are trying to help their precious pet, not to hurt your feelings or question your ability—so don’t immediately bail on your recommendation. Instead, focus on education. Explain that several appropriate treatment options are often available and provide a clear rationale for your chosen approach. If necessary, use relevant data and clinical guidelines to reinforce your recommendation. This will reassure the client and demonstrate your expertise. Sometimes, the pet owner will so appreciate that you took the extra time to explain their pet’s health and your recommendations that you’ll gain a long-term client!
The lead tech says, “Are you sure that’s right?”
Being questioned by veterinary support staff can directly hit your confidence, but depersonalizing the situation can help you see the staff member’s true motives and stay assured of your abilities.
First, keep in mind that the technician or assistant is acting as the patient’s advocate and trying to ensure their safety—not undermine your authority or question your competence. Recognize your shared goal of patient welfare and take every inquiry seriously to ensure you haven’t made an error—the best of us make mistakes. Otherwise, thank the team member for their observation and concern and explain your treatment plan or dosing decision. While you don’t have to justify your treatment decisions to the support staff, educating them on unfamiliar or modern approaches or clinical findings fosters a growth-minded atmosphere and mutual respect. Plus, nothing is more advantageous for a new grad than a skilled technician in your corner!
You disagree with an associate’s treatment plan
It’s late on a Saturday afternoon and you’re scheduled to see an associate’s patient for follow-up. The patient is being treated for a chronic respiratory condition that is stable but not improving. You review the chart and find yourself disagreeing with the associate’s plan, which may, in turn, lead you to question your understanding.
In this scenario, communication and professional respect are key. Discuss your concerns with the associate before proposing any changes to the client. If the associate isn’t available, consider explaining to the client that while the current plan is valid, another approach may also be an option. When you are honest and transparent with the client, you can provide appropriate support without damaging your professional integrity or compromising the existing veterinarian-client relationship.
You experience your first loss
The first time a patient dies under your care can be significantly emotional and trigger doubt, but you can avoid getting stuck in your grief by taking action:
- Check in with your mentor for guidance and support.
- Review the case thoroughly to understand what happened.
- Seek feedback from leadership or colleagues to gain different perspectives.
If necessary, take a personal wellness or self-care day to process your emotions and recharge. Unfortunately, loss is an inevitable part of our work that should humble you, but never stop you. Take care of yourself and use these opportunities to learn, grow, and strengthen your resilience, so you can care for all the pets and clients who need you!
Clinic staff don’t let you practice patient skills
If the technician and assistant team always complete tasks (e.g., blood draws, catheter placement, cytology prep and review) before you have the chance, you may start thinking they see you as incapable or incompetent. And, as your opportunities to practice these skills diminish, your doubt may multiply.
First, check in with the team and communicate your needs. They may be operating from a mindset of efficiency and smooth workflow, or simply be accustomed to those tasks being delegated. Explaining that you need to practice or develop your skills not only ensures the staff members give you these opportunities, but they also may begin saving you other tasks. While you’re at it, tap into the hospital staff for coaching, expert tips, and trade secrets for technical tasks. Skill-sharing is a great way to build trust and collegiality and to bond with the tech team!
You make a mistake
Mistakes can lead to self-questioning and overanalysis, reducing your performance, productivity, and job satisfaction. While we all strive to avoid mistakes, we also have to recognize that they are part of the learning process, and the reason we refer to providing care as practice.
You’re not always going to get things right—and that’s OK. It doesn’t mean you don’t know, only that you are human.
Mistake recovery is key to a healthy and sustainable career. When you make a mistake, intercept self-doubt with a system that could include:
- Owning the error — Hold yourself accountable and report the mistake to the appropriate parties.
- Taking control by finding a solution — Active engagement can help you avoid rumination and a self-blame spiral.
- Getting perspective — Find comfort and consolation by being open and honest with your mentor or colleagues.
- Moving on — Look for the lesson and carry it—not your guilt—with you to your next shift, appointment, or patient.
Doubt is a natural emotion, but it shouldn’t be your constant companion! When your beliefs about your limitations start to crowd out your confidence, reach for this guide and remember—you do know what you’re doing! And, if you’re a Ready, Vet, Go mentee, reach out to your mentee pack! Our small peer group packs are a powerful way to find community, camaraderie, and confidence during your all-important first year in practice. Not a member? Get in touch with us to learn about our next enrollment period!
Ready, Vet, Go Veterinary Mentorship is an innovative online program and community that helps new and early career veterinarians build confidence, gain independence, and experience greater joy. Visit our FAQ page to learn more about what we offer or get in touch with our team.