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Networking in the world of veterinary medicine is such an important tool in any new veterinary professional's toolkit! Knowing people who you can call on for support and who can give you advice in challenging times can make a huge difference in your career. Even though most events look different now, we are more connected than ever before. Virtual conferences, interactive webinars and social media are bringing our veterinary community into a new age. How can we build relationships from such distances that last?

The Uncharted Veterinary Community has grown to over 500 members since the start of 2020… the start of a pandemic. Many of our most active new members haven't even gotten the chance to meet in person! Yet, connections are thriving and friendships have been built across oceans and computer screens. Here are a few things we've noticed about networking that works at our virtual events!

1. Use the Virtual Chat

It can feel awkward to jump into conversation over a computer screen. Making eye contact isn't the easiest, and wondering if someone wants to unmute can feel daunting. During a virtual conference or workshop, the chat can be a great way to connect! You can send private messages to someone you have a question for, or want to say hello to. You can exchange email addresses or add each other on social media to continue conversations after the event is over.

2. Don't Be Afraid of the Unmute Button!

Uncharted virtual conferences have built-in time for socializing and ice breakers, but if you're attending a workshop then you might need to take some initiative to get to know other attendees! Say hi to someone you recognize from another event, or even say hi to the speaker! It might kick off a conversation that leads to a lasting connection. If you are at an Uncharted workshop, our team would love to get to know you! If you spot one of us, say hi!

3. You Can Support Each Other and Celebrate Each Other

If you're attending a workshop then you're probably looking for answers to questions. The power of communities like Uncharted doesn't only grow when we support each other through challenges, but also through wins! Someone might come up with a great idea to solve your problem in your next virtual workshop. Make sure to thank them! If you see someone out there on social media doing something great, shout it out on your own page. Support and celebrate your peers and colleagues. That's a great way to make a connection that can grow beyond the virtual world.

Networking in veterinary medicine is still about building bonds beyond the screen. Connecting in the new world of virtual conferences and social media is easier than ever but can still feel intimidating. We hope you find the connections that bring you further in your veterinary career through Uncharted, online and beyond! Use our events to practice and grow these skills. We can't wait to see you there.

Upcoming Opportunites with the Uncharted Veterinary Community

There are plenty of opportunities to network with the Uncharted Community! We still have volunteer spots available for our Uncharted Culture Conference, October 21-23! You can find more information HERE.

We also have NEW virtual workshops on the way with amazing veterinary professionals like Dr. Tracy Sands (founding member of the Uncharted Community and founder of the #vetyoumatter movement) and Uncharted Podcast co-host Stephanie Goss!

Become a member of our positive, thriving online Uncharted Veterinary Community and gain access to next year's LIVE events. More information here.

Leading up to the Uncharted Culture Conference, the Uncharted Community is actively talking about clinic culture topics like managing tired teams and tired leaders. One of our Community Members reminded us about this fantastic video in the Uncharted Knowledge Library about how to recognize if you're in a toxic headspace where Dr. Andy Roark gave us some quick and practical tips. Watch this exclusive video release!

Why is understanding your headspace important?

1. Emotions are contagious.
2. Consistency is key.
3. Little snaps are a bigger deal for team morale than you think they are

What are some signs that you are in a toxic headspace?

The first thing Andy dives into is recognizing if you are in a toxic headspace. He breaks it down into three telltale signs:

1. If everyone's being a jerk, you're probably the jerk.
2. When you feel like you're the only one that knows what is going on, then you did not communicate effectively.
3. You are having imaginary arguments with other people.

How can you get out of a toxic headspace?

First thing's first, acknowledge that you are in a toxic headspace and don't put yourself in a position to fail. Like a dog that we know will bite, avoid situations that will get you into trouble with your team and others when you're noticing these signs.

Next, take time to rest. Exhaustion will make everything seem ten times worse.

Third, make a quick gratitude list. Think of three things that you like about the person you're struggling to communicate with. Taking that extra moment to look at the situation in a new way can make all the difference.

Lastly, Andy talks about his own stress management tool which is exercise. It doesn't matter if your stress management tool is coloring, getting outdoors or hitting the pavement for 5 miles. Do the thing that brings you joy!

If you enjoyed this video and these tips, join us at the first-EVER Uncharted Culture Conference! It's coming up soon and our early bird Buy 2, Get 1 Free deal ends this week!