Your First Week as a Veterinary Receptionist

What to Expect

Starting a new job can be overwhelming, especially in the fast-paced world of veterinary medicine. Whether this is your first time working in a clinic or you’re a seasoned receptionist joining a new team, your first week is about setting the foundation for everything to come. At Pawsitive Reception, we believe in setting you up for success from day one.

Let’s Start With This:

Before we dive into the logistics, I always like to begin with a simple conversation: What do you think the role of a veterinary receptionist is?

I’ve heard every answer under the sun, and there’s no “wrong” one, but here’s what I believe:

You are the face of the clinic.

When someone calls, walks through the door, or sends an email, they aren’t talking to the doctor or the techs. They’re talking to you. You are the first impression and the lasting connection. That’s a big deal. So just remember this:

You are important. You run the show.

You’ve got this—and I’ve got you.

The Pawsitive Reception Approach to Week One

Your first week is all about foundations, not perfection. We don’t throw you in the deep end. We ease you in, support you, and build you up. Here’s how we do it:

1. Sit Down & Set Expectations

We don’t start at the front desk. We start somewhere quiet and comfortable. We talk through:

• What’s expected of you

• What support you’ll have

• What your first week will look like

• And most importantly, why your role matters

Then we go over our Client Care Foundations:

• Hospitality: Warm, welcoming, and kind - every time

• Client Education: Clear, compassionate communication

• Medicine: Understanding your role in patient care

2. Your Sole Focus: Answering the Phone & Booking Appointments

In your first week, your one and only goal is this:

Answer the phone. Book appointments.

That’s it. No emails. No inventory. No medical files. Don’t worry about what I’m working on. Just get comfy with the phone and the schedule.

Why? Because:

• The phone is scary for a lot of people, but by the end of the week, for you it won’t be.

• You’ll be asked all sorts of questions, and it’s totally okay to say, “Let me find out for you.”
  

  • That’s how you learn.

  • That’s how the answers stick.

  • That’s how you become confident.

Plus, booking appointments teaches you how to use the practice management software. You’ll naturally start learning how to:

• Search and update client records

• Navigate through reminders

• Understand basic medical history

You’re doing more than you realize, just by picking up the phone.

Two Types of “First Weeks”

Not everyone starts from the same place. So here’s a breakdown:

If You’re Brand New to Vet Med:

• Everything will be unfamiliar.

• You’ll have a lot to learn, but you’ll be supported every step of the way.

• You’ll build your confidence with time and repetition.

If You’ve Done This Job Before:

• You already know how to be a veterinary receptionist.

• But you don’t know how this clinic runs.

• Every clinic has different doctors, policies, systems, and client expectations.

• You’ll bring your skills, but you’ll still need time to adjust to a new flow.

It’s just like when I train as an independent hire, I know the job, but I don’t know the clinic. And that’s okay.

One Step at a Time

Your first week isn’t about being perfect, it’s about starting strong. You’re going to learn. You’re going to ask questions. You’re going to grow.

And by the end of that week? You’ll already be on your way to becoming an essential part of the team.

Want more insights like this? Follow along for more blogs from Pawsitive Reception, where we support veterinary receptionists at every stage of their journey.