As Talent Business Manager for IVC Evidensia, I’ve had the privilege of speaking with hundreds of final-year vet students over the years. A question I hear time and time again is: What makes an application stand out? The good news is that you don’t have to be perfect. At IVC, we’re looking for potential, not perfection. We want to see who you are, what drives you, and how you align with our values. Whether you’re preparing for your first job or navigating the competitive job market, here are my top five tips to make sure your application shines.

Show Us Who You Are – Be Authentic

One of the most important things we look for is authenticity. Don’t be afraid to show a bit of personality in your application and interview. We want to know what motivates you, how you approach challenges, and what excites you about being a vet. The right attitude can be just as important as your academic background, and this is your chance to stand out from the crowd.

Rather than saying attitude is just as important, could we rephrase to elude to, every applicant has the same qualifications, YOU are what is unique about your application.

Align with Our Values

At IVC, our values — WE CARE, WE DARE, WE SHARE — aren’t just words; they’re how we work every day. When you’re applying, think about how your experiences align with these values. Did you show care when working with a challenging case during your EMS? Did you dare to try something new or take on extra responsibility? Can you share an example of teamwork? We’re looking for candidates who not only fit the role but fit our culture.

Be Confident in Your Communication

Whether it's your CV, cover letter, or interview, how you communicate matters. Be clear, concise, and confident in expressing your thoughts. Confidence doesn’t mean arrogance — it’s about owning your experiences and showing how they’ve shaped you into the candidate you are today. Practice answering common questions, but don’t forget to show your personality and enthusiasm for the role.

Show Your Passion and Preparation

It’s important to demonstrate that you’ve thought about your career journey. Share with us the EMS experiences that have shaped your path and why you chose them. If your ideal practice isn’t available, don’t worry — we’ll work with you to find something that aligns with your goals, whether that’s in a nearby practice or one with a similar focus.

Also, be open-minded about location. Sometimes the perfect opportunity might be in a slightly different area than you first imagined. Showing that you’re adaptable and willing to consider relocating demonstrates commitment and a readiness to embrace new experiences — both qualities that stand out to us. We’ll always support you as much as we can to make any transition as smooth as possible.

And don’t forget to come prepared with a couple of thoughtful questions about the practice, the role, or even the team dynamics — it shows you’re serious, curious, and engaged.

Be Prepared with Continuous Learning

As a veterinary graduate, your journey is just beginning. It’s not only about the skills you’ve learned during university but the ongoing commitment to your professional development. The Graduate Academy at IVC Evidensia offers a wide range of CPD courses designed to help you continue growing in your career. But beyond formal learning, stay up to date with industry trends, explore areas of special interest, and network with professionals. Always be prepared to learn — it shows you’re proactive and dedicated to becoming the best vet you can be.

Ready to unlock your potential?

At IVC Evidensia, we’re committed to helping you grow, both professionally and personally. Our Graduate Academy provides the resources and support you need to succeed as you embark on your veterinary career. It's not about being perfect — it's about continuous learning and unlocking your potential every step of the way.

Join our Graduate Academy today and start your journey with IVC, where your career has unlimited potential.