Healthcare Recruiting: Strategies that Works
If you're considering a healthcare job, you might be wondering how to best find and land the right position. While there is no one-size-fits-all approach, here are some top strategies that can help you gain more traction in your search:
1) Research the industry. If you know where your career is headed, it will be easier to identify organizations that may fit your skillset. You can also gauge interest by using online resources or looking for signs of change at hospitals or clinics in the area (e.g., changing locations).
2) Identify organizations with increasing demand for specific skillsets and roles. There is a growing need for clinicians who can fill shortages in certain areas. You can identify opportunities by accessing state and federal data, such as those available at the Bureau of Labor Statistics or your state's Department of Health . Also, don't overlook local sources of information such as newsletters and job listings.
3) Be strategic when networking. Strategically connect , interact and engage with individuals in the industry with similar interests. One effective way to do this is to attend industry functions, including conferences and job fairs that allow you to meet decision makers face-to-face. If this is not possible, reach out to managers and peers over LinkedIn .
4) Build relationships with industry leaders through conferences. Whether via online or offline channels (webinars, webcasts, e-mails, etc.), think beyond the event and the presentation. Consider connecting with attendees to see what they are doing after the conference. By networking in person or virtually at these events, you will develop a network of industry leaders who can help you identify opportunities that fit your needs.
5) Research your top contenders. There's no substitute for getting information straight from the source—that means actually visiting potential employers and seeing if they are a good fit for you. Meet with hiring managers, ask them about the company culture and enjoy a personal tour of the facility.
6) Create unique and memorable resumes. Start building your online profile by posting relevant content on social media, including LinkedIn and Facebook. Include current screenshots of your resume, as well as links to your personal website or blog. We also recommend taking a creative approach to your resume by adding a logo or photo to illustrate relevant skills that are not readily apparent elsewhere (such as in an academic transcript or LinkedIn profile). Additionally, consider revising old resumes and creating new ones that include skills that are indicative of where you want to be in the future (e.g., highlighting medical training, certifications).
7) Manage your online presence. If you work in healthcare, you may already have a presence on social media. Make sure that it is consistent and authentic by being deliberate about how often you post and what content you share. Moreover, make sure that the content on your profiles is useful and actionable for hiring managers (don't overload them with social media).
8) Use resources to identify job openings . For each opportunity, carefully review their job descriptions; fill out applications; and send in detailed cover letters , resumes or compelling case studies . By following this process, you will increase the likelihood of securing an interview, which will be crucial to success in any competitive hiring situation.
9) Start early—now. If you are looking for a job in the healthcare industry, don't wait until the last minute to start your search. Take action now—you won't be able to change your career path later.
10) Rethink "traditional" networking . Traditional networking strategies such as cold-calling and networking events don't play well in today's environment, where candidates are inundated with so many recruiters that it can be difficult for them to decide which one(s) to work with. Getting inside information about openings from colleagues or connections is much more effective and efficient than trying to follow up with everyone on LinkedIn .
11) Develop a plan for hiring process . The first step in the hiring process is an informational interview with a recruiter or hiring manager. This should include asking questions to understand the company culture and the expectations of the role you are applying for. You will also want to become familiar with the company's history, mission and vision.
12) Be realistic in your job search . If you've already lost hope in finding a position, it might be time to take an objective look at your strengths, experience and skills that are relevant for future career goals (e.g., medical school years completed, certifications that demonstrate relevant training). Not only will this help boost your confidence, it will increase your odds of securing interviews and securing offers from employers.
13) Consider the "right" questions . Before meeting with a hiring manager, be sure to ask him or her the type of questions that are most critical to you (e.g., what are your greatest concerns about cross-training employees and why is that important to you? )
14) Manage your expectations. It's easy to fall into the trap of thinking that you should be able to decide on a role and location based on where you meet someone at a networking event—a meeting in which you have little control over the other person's interest in you aside from being an interesting candidate. Your best bet is to be strategic and focus on the industry and roles that are of interest to you. Just remember, networking is about finding a job—it's not about getting every job you interview for.
15) Don't wait for opportunity—create it. Many healthcare professionals think about their careers as a result of their current situation: if they haven't yet found a job that fits with their interests, then they should wait for an opportunity. If you are ready to make that leap into a new role, don't wait—get proactive by looking at the opportunities that are out there and think outside the box in your search (e.g., consider opportunities beyond what your original resume may indicate).
16) Know what to expect in the interview. Expect the unexpected—the interview process can be unpredictable. The best way to address this is by managing your expectations in advance and understanding what is going to happen from the start. You can do this by outlining the objectives that you want to meet, and by being sure that you have a sense of your audience (e.g., who will be conducting the interviews? What are their interests? What are their needs?).
17) Prepare for technical challenges. It's not uncommon for the technical equipment in an interview room to fail. In fact, unless you are in a very formal interview setting, it's more likely that the participants will have to deal with technical issues. Practice using basic technology (e.g., a pencil and paper) so that if something goes wrong, you'll be able to handle it—and not let it throw off your game.
18) Don't make excuses. After an interview ends, employers look at candidates objectively and critically evaluate whether or not they are a good fit for their organization.
Conclusion
The medical industry is constantly evolving, which means that your career will be as well. It's important for healthcare professionals to stay abreast of the latest news and trends in the industry, so that you can be successful in your career regardless of whether you are interested in building a private practice, working for a hospital or pharmaceutical company, or joining the government. Staying on top of what's new and making sure that you remain relevant is crucial to staying focused on your strengths and ensuring your success.
To learn more about how to conduct a successful job search in healthcare and get the most out of networking opportunities, join us for our free webinar.