Job Responsibilities
My major responsibilities are to the animals. I am trained to
ensure that my customers' pets are getting the best possible
nutrition. Since I work for the Global leader in pet nutrition,
this usually means recommending Hills products, but it is also
part of my job to research other products on the market and
selecet the best product for the cat or dog. A lot of what I do
is educating the consumer about what their pets need
nutritionally (as well as in other aspects of their lives-
fitness, toys, training, health, etc.). Most people do not know
what their pet needs nor do they know how to determine which
food and treats will best meet these needs.
|
Job Requirements
I did not need a college or university degree to get this job.
Certainly, it helps for advancement in the company (our
veterinary account manager is trained as a veterinary
technician, for example). Hills provided a lot of training on
the subject, but I have also researched products independantly.
Hills is very good about making individual recommendations for
pets' health and not worrying abou their sales, so I have not
found any biases in their training, but to ensure that this is
not the case, I seek outside sources.
|
Uppers
The best part is working with the animals! It is really rewarding when a client
comes back and says, "my pet's health problems are gone! She or he is healthier
and happier and lover her or his food!" Working with the people has also been
very rewarding as I've met many interesting people with varied interests. I have
learned a lot from them. That's another thing I like- that there is always
something more to learn!
|
Downers
I can be stationed anywhere around the city in theory, although
they try to keep us in the same stores so that we can get to
know our clients. They pay mileage, but it is a pain to go
across town sometimes. We also have to check to ensure that
store staff are properly rotating the bags and pulling
merchandise that's past its best-before-date off the shelves.
The 40lb bags can be very tedious.
|
Lifestyle
I work only on the weekends. Shifts are 4 hours in length, but you might work 2
in a day. Every quarter we have a great meeting with our team to touch base,
trade knowledge, and clarify any problems we're having. I have travelled to Red
Deer for a conference, but my particular job doesn't require a lot of travelling
outside the city. If you advance in the company, though, you quite likely will.
The dress code is fairly casual. We just have to look professional. Hills
provides us with shirts, a booth, and an apron. Any combination of these is
appropriate.
|
Compensation
I can't disclose salary since it's confidential, but it is well
above average. You also get coupons for free product and many
other perks for you and your pet throughout the year (i.e. free
leash, movie tickets, gift cards, etc.). Wage is re-evaluated
annually.
|
Advice to Jobseekers
This is a wonderful career- particularly for students. I am a
biological sciences major looking to go into veterinary
medicine. This job has made me want to pursue a specialty in
nutrition. It is a booming field... Good luck!!!
|
|
