Tech transitions: Moving into management

Changes in your career-even if they're desirable ones-can be very stressful. The combination of shakeup to your routine and a leap into unknown territory is likely to stir up fear as well as excitement.

One person who's been through this occupational upheaval is Fetch dvm360 conference speaker Danielle Russ, BS, BA, AS, LVT, who left a position as a veterinary technician to assume a management role. She has a few tips for those facing such advancement, or even just thinking about it.

Accept that you'll be uncomfortable

A new position will require you to perform tasks and adopt perspectives previously unknown. Sound fun? Yeah, probably not. But Russ says you should be ready to face your new daily reality, even though it may be upsetting at the start.

Prepare to leave your previous role behind

Russ calls this the most difficult part of her own professional transition. This is probably no surprise: Once you devote so much time and passion to achieving the goal of a long sought position, moving on can be tough. But, she says that the switch is not only necessary, it provides opportunity for teammates.

Management mashup

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"I had to let go and empower and encourage our other specialty technicians to rise up into that role," she says.

Surround yourself with experienced managers

Your peers have likely seen it all, so why not tap them for perspective?

"Use them as a resource and be ok asking questions on things that you are not comfortable with yet," she says.

Just like you did in your previous role, right?

Watch the video for more.

You. Can. Do. This!

At Fetch dvm360 conference, we're the support system you need. With every conference this year, we intend to nurture your mind (meaning quality CE for days) while also encouraging you to take stock of your physical and emotional health. Register now.