At a Glance
- Tasks: Welcome clients and pets, manage appointments, and support clinical teams with compassion.
- Company: Join a non-profit dedicated to affordable pet care and animal welfare.
- Benefits: Enjoy a competitive salary, flexible shifts, and generous annual leave.
- Other info: Work in a team that prioritises patient well-being over profit.
- Why this job: Make a real difference in pet care while working in a supportive environment.
- Qualifications: Empathy and strong communication skills are essential; experience in a medical setting is a plus.
Are you an enthusiastic advocate for animals, driven by the desire to contribute to our overarching goal of ensuring every pet has access to affordable treatment? We are currently seeking a dynamic Receptionist to become an integral part of our team at the Bolton Hospital. As a Community Interest Company (CIC) and a non-profit organisation, our unwavering commitment prioritises the well-being of patients and their owners over profit. Join us in making a positive impact in the world of pet care.
Founding Vision
Owen Monie, our founding Vet, established the Animal Trust, because he passionately believes that no animal should suffer due to their owner's financial hardship, which is why there are no consultation fees charged at any of our vet practices. There are no eligibility criteria, because we want to encourage people to bring their pets to us. Owners will only pay for any treatment at realistic prices, which are completely transparent and published on our website.
Why You Matter
Our Receptionists are an important link between the clinical and non-clinical needs of our surgery's operation. Supported by the management team onsite, you will help shape our primary aim of providing access for sick pets to access our services. Assisting our clients with appointments, diary management and finance including debt and insurance will be the main duties of this role. Your supportive collaboration with the clinical teams will be paramount to ensure they have everything they need to provide compassionate care to those relying on our services.
Areas of Responsibility
- Welcoming clients and their pets for appointments and maintaining a compassionate and professional attitude at all times
- Answering telephone calls/queries from clients
- Handling medication prepared by the veterinary surgeon and handing to clients
- Working within a team (and at times alone) to ensure the surgery's reception, waiting area and consultation rooms are maintained to a high standard of clinical cleanliness
- Dealing with stressed or upset clients and connecting them to the appropriate teams where required
- Taking payments, registering new clients and addressing client concerns
- Organisation and restocking of the practice where required
- Complying with all health and safety procedures
- Complying with data protection legislation to ensure client and patient confidentiality is maintained at all times
Are You Our Ideal Candidate?
If you possess an impressive understanding of the pressures faced by medical teams, along with empathy, exceptional organisation and effective communication skills, you might be the perfect fit for our team. Experience of working on a medical or veterinary reception is desirable, but it is not essential, as we value passion, dedication, and a commitment to our cause. We are especially looking for people who have worked with clients in stressful situations. Taking your pet to the vet when they are sick is very difficult, and sometimes our clients have to say goodbye to a pet they consider to be a family member. Empathy, understanding and communicating is therefore especially important and we will probably ask you at your interview about times when you have had to face similar situations.
Job Particulars
Salary scale: £12.21/hour
35-hour contract
Two Rota patterns available: 4 on 4 off, including weekends and share of bank holidays
Shift times: 07:45 - 6:15hrs , 13:30 - 00:00hrs
Annual Leave: 5.6 weeks including bank holidays
Veterinary Receptionist employer: Animal Trust
Animal Trust is an exceptional employer, offering a unique opportunity for Registered Veterinary Nurses to transition into a rewarding non-clinical role while still making a significant impact on client care and patient support. With a strong commitment to employee well-being, we provide generous benefits such as 6 weeks of holiday, funded CPD, and a supportive work culture that fosters professional growth and development. Located in Shrewsbury, our Community Interest Company prioritises mission-driven work over profit maximisation, ensuring a fulfilling and meaningful career path for our team members.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Veterinary Receptionist
✨Tip Number 1
Familiarise yourself with the values and mission of the Animal Trust. Understanding their commitment to affordable pet care will help you align your passion for animal welfare with their goals during the interview.
✨Tip Number 2
Prepare examples from your past experiences where you've demonstrated empathy and effective communication, especially in stressful situations. This will showcase your ability to handle the emotional aspects of the role.
✨Tip Number 3
Research common veterinary procedures and terminology. Having a basic understanding of what clients might be going through can help you connect better with them and show your dedication to the role.
✨Tip Number 4
Network with current or former veterinary receptionists if possible. They can provide insights into the day-to-day responsibilities and challenges, which can help you prepare for potential interview questions.
We think you need these skills to ace Veterinary Receptionist
Some tips for your application 🫡
Understand the Role:Read the job description thoroughly to grasp the responsibilities and qualities required for a Veterinary Receptionist. Tailor your application to highlight how your skills align with their needs.
Showcase Relevant Experience:Even if you don't have direct experience in a veterinary setting, emphasise any customer service roles or experiences where you've dealt with stressed clients. Use specific examples to demonstrate your empathy and communication skills.
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter:Write a cover letter that reflects your passion for animal welfare and your understanding of the challenges faced by pet owners. Make sure to connect your personal values with the mission of the organisation.
Proofread Your Application:Before submitting, carefully proofread your CV and cover letter for any spelling or grammatical errors. A polished application shows attention to detail and professionalism, which is crucial in a reception role.
How to prepare for a job interview at Animal Trust
✨Show Your Passion for Animal Welfare
Make sure to express your enthusiasm for animal care and the mission of the organisation. Share any personal experiences or stories that highlight your commitment to ensuring pets receive the treatment they need, especially in challenging financial situations.
✨Demonstrate Empathy and Communication Skills
Prepare to discuss scenarios where you've had to handle upset or stressed clients. Highlight your ability to communicate effectively and compassionately, as this is crucial in a veterinary setting where emotions can run high.
✨Familiarise Yourself with the Role's Responsibilities
Review the job description thoroughly and be ready to talk about how your skills align with the responsibilities listed. Understanding the importance of diary management, client interactions, and maintaining a clean environment will show that you are serious about the role.
✨Ask Insightful Questions
Prepare thoughtful questions about the organisation's approach to pet care and client interaction. This not only shows your interest in the position but also helps you gauge if the company culture aligns with your values.
