Employers in the pet trade need to be patient when they appoint newcomers into their business because it can take some time for a fresh face to settle in, according to a leading recruitment expert.

Pet Trade Solutions founder and owner Lynda Ward says: “The pet industry does have certain peculiarities and it’s not always easy for people inexperienced in this trade to understand its workings and to build solid relationships quickly. 

"Desk-bound roles such as marketing or certain senior sales roles in particular can present problems with a lack of grass roots understanding causing difficulties with both customers and the team.

"Strategies which may work beautifully in other industries can destroy current strengths or waste time as they have been used (successfully or otherwise) here before.

"When speaking recently to a senior manager of a well-known brand I was shocked to hear that they felt it had taken them at least a year to settle into the pet trade and understand fully how to use the tools of communication and to address trade and consumer needs. 

"Employers always seek people who can ‘hit the ground running’ but unless newcomers to the trade are very carefully chosen, fully supported and inducted fully into their new role the term that often best fits the outcome includes ‘running’ but also the words ‘headless’ and ‘chicken’."

Lynda is always happy to personally advise on any aspects of recruitment and marketing strategy and can be contacted on 07946 743784 or at lyndaward@pettradesolutions.com