Not Getting Job Offers? Several Reasons Why

July 18, 2017Posted inAll articles, How-to succeed

Owl - get job offers from animal organizations

By Paula Fitzsimmons

Rejection stings, especially when it involves a job you really wanted or thought you’d be perfect for.

It’s essential that you learn to not take rejection personally . . .easier said than done, I know.  But getting turned down for a job isn’t a reflection of who you are or what you have to offer.

For one, you’re competing against dozens and even hundreds of other applicants – one hiring manager at an animal nonprofit recently told me she and her coworkers receive thousands of applications per year.

There are any number of other reasons why you may not be getting your dream job or called back for interviews. I’ve outlined a few of the big ones below.

Shelter Medicine: An Emerging Veterinary Specialty That Offers Hope

May 24, 2016Posted inAll articles, Career options, Experts & interviews, Featured articles

Shelter Medicine - emerging veterinary specialty to help rescue animals

By Paula Fitzsimmons

Rescues are filled with animals who have suffered to some degree in their previous lives. Then there’s shelter life, rife with its own unique challenges – from the stress of being in a new environment, to increased vulnerability to outbreaks.

Balancing the needs of individual animals with that of the group’s isn’t a cake walk for shelter staff, either.

Find the Time (and Energy) to Volunteer

February 10, 2016Posted inAll articles, Featured articles, How-to succeed

Coyote pup yawning

By Paula Fitzsimmons

If you want to stand apart from other applicants, having volunteer experience on your resume is essential. Look at it from the employer’s perspective: All things being equal, wouldn’t you be more inclined to choose the candidate who took the extra step? Volunteering shows you care – that you’re willing to give your time to something greater than yourself without expecting something in return.

The Best Holiday Gifts for Animal People

November 28, 2015Posted inAll articles, Inspiration & ideas

Holiday Polar Bear

By Paula Fitzsimmons

Not sure what to give your favorite animal lover for the holidays? This list can help with that. These ideas are suitable for every animal lover on your list – and they come in a variety of price ranges to suit most budgets. Of course, the best gift you can give is your support and encouragement . . . but the following items are sure to please just about anyone who cares deeply for animals.

There are a myriad of businesses and organizations doing good- this list represents just a tiny portion of what’s available.

More Than Just Words: 8 Powerhouse Quotes for People Who Care

October 26, 2015Posted inAll articles, Inspiration & ideas

Owl with EO Wilson quote
By Paula Fitzsimmons

Life can’t be boiled down to a sentence or two . . . it’s too complex for that. But good quotes are more than just strings of meaningless words or “kumbaya” sentiments. At least for me. They represent bigger thoughts and ideals, can propel you forward, and act as reminders of what’s important. And who can’t use a kickstart every now and then?

I chose the following quotes for you . . .the activist, the person who wants to make a difference, whether you work in the animal protection field, are seeking a job with animals, or are a volunteer activist. I hope these words and ideas speak to you as they do for me. I’ve added some commentary, and would also love to know your thoughts on these.

Why You Need Passion to Work in This Field

October 5, 2015Posted inAll articles, Inspiration & ideas

Dove in caring hands

By Paula Fitzsimmons

Work for a rescue, sanctuary, or advocacy group, and you’ll need to possess certain characteristics: a solid moral compass, a strong work ethic, tenacity . . . and a good dose of passion.

Definitions vary, but in this case passion is more than just about liking, or even loving animals. Because a lot of people feel this way. Being passionate is about feeling compelled to improve animals’ lives – whether as an employee or activist – and remaining committed through the tough times.

Want One of These Animal-centered Jobs? How Are Your People Skills?

August 12, 2015Posted inAll articles, Career options

Owl with Speech BubbleBy Paula Fitzsimmons

It seems counter-intuitive that a job involving animals would require good people skills. The reality is that regardless of which animal-centered career path you choose (or heck, with anything in life), you’ll likely need to work with people. Even if it’s just on a limited basis.

This can be a little daunting for those of us who want to work for or with animals. Why do I say that? Because I believe most of us “animal people” tend to be on the independent side. I don’t have any studies to back this up; it’s just a sense I’ve gotten from being around other advocates. And there’s nothing wrong with that . . . everyone is wired differently. I’m an introvert, by the way.

Writer, Author . . . Animal Lover

May 21, 2015Posted inAll articles, Career options, Featured articles

Owl with BookBy Paula Fitzsimmons

You’re a wordsmith, someone who can effectively write to persuade, educate, and get people thinking and talking. What you’d probably like to know is how to turn those skills into a writing career – specifically, a career writing about animals or the environment.

If you’re like other writers, you may have started your journey with book and magazine markets. These are still feasible options, but are just one path to consider.

6 Questions to Ask Yourself Before Starting an Animal Rescue

May 6, 2015Posted inAll articles, Career options, Featured articles

Rescue cats and other needy animals.By Paula Fitzsimmons

There’s no question a need for animal rescues, shelters, and sanctuaries exists.

The animal welfare community has worked – and succeeded – to decrease the number of homeless animals, but there are still pressing issues. According to a 2012-2013 study by the former National Council on Pet Population Study and Policy (by way of the Humane Society of the US), there are an estimated 3,500 animal shelters in the United States – with 6 to 8 million cats and dogs entering these shelters each year.