5 Ways to Improve Your Healthcare Job Search
April 19, 2022
Healthcare workers are in high demand, due in part to an aging population. According to the U.S. Census Bureau, the 65-and-older population grew by 34.2% during the past decade. The 65-and-older population in America is also projected to surpass the 18-and-under population by 2034 for the first time in the country’s history. Employment in healthcare occupations is projected to grow 16% from 2020 to 2030, according to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS). This increase would add about 2.6 million jobs, which is more than any other occupational group.
Healthcare workers are needed at all levels, from home health to family medicine. If you are looking for a new opportunity in healthcare, now is a good time to start your search. Here are some tips to improve your healthcare job search and find your ideal job opportunity.
1. Get clear about what you want
Before you start your job search, it is important that you define what matters the most to you. What kind of environment do you want to work in? How important is the company culture? What is non-negotiable and what are you willing to compromise on? Get crystal clear about what you want from your job before you start your search. This helps eliminate anything that doesn’t meet your criteria so you can focus on the opportunities that appeal to you the most.
2. Do your research
The first thing you look at as a job searcher is the job description. You review the requirements and qualifications and, if you meet enough of them, you apply. Some websites even give you the option to apply with one click. However, it is critical that you research the facility as well. You want to know what you can expect if you work there. Look at reviews from current and past employees. What does the company do well? Where does it need improvements? If you are applying for a patient-facing role, what do patients say about the care they receive?
3. Review and revise your resume
When you apply for a job, it is best practice to tailor your resume to match the job description. Many organizations use an applicant tracking system (ATS) to narrow the list of applicants. The ATS uses “knockout questions” to eliminate applicants who are unable or unwilling to perform job functions. It also parses your resume for certain keywords, which are listed in the job description. It is paramount that you answer the application questions honestly and accurately represent your qualifications.
If your resume makes it past the ATS to a hiring manager for an interview, be prepared to substantiate your experience. If you do not meet all of the qualifications, be prepared to explain why they should hire you anyway. Think about any transferable or soft skills you have that apply to the role.
4. Network
The phrase “it’s not what you know, it’s who you know” rings true in professional settings. Sometimes all it takes to get your foot in the door is an introduction from the right person. There are a few ways you can leverage your network and connections. One is to use LinkedIn to see who you might know at companies you are interested in. You can also use the “Open to work” option to list the job titles and types you are looking for. If you want to extend your reach, you can allow all LinkedIn members to see that you are available for work. This will add an “Open to work” frame to your profile picture. You can also write a post that outlines the type of work you are looking for. Make sure your profile is completely filled out and up-to-date.
In addition to LinkedIn, it can be helpful to attend local networking events. If you are a recent graduate, your college or university may host job fairs or other networking events. If you are a member of a professional organization, be sure to check their website for any upcoming events.
5. Use niche job boards
Large job boards like Indeed can be a blessing and curse for job hunters. While they offer a lot of opportunities, it can be more difficult to find exactly what you are looking for among the hundreds of listings. There is also more competition for those roles. Using a niche job board can help you narrow down your search. Revisit the list you made at the beginning of your job search to help you find boards that align with your criteria.
Searching for a job can often feel like a full-time job. Set yourself up for success by getting clear about what you want (and don’t want) and focus on putting your best foot forward.
At Hoag, we offer job opportunities ranging from IT and Cyber Security to Management and Physician roles. We also offer a plethora of career resources to help set you up for success wherever you may be in your career journey. Ready to start your healthcare job search? Check out our open opportunities at Hoag. You can also sign up for our monthly newsletter to get resume, networking, and career development tips straight to your inbox.
About Hoag
Hoag Hospital is the highest-ranked hospital in Orange County in U.S. News & World Report’s 2021-2022 best hospital rankings. Since 1952, Hoag has served the local communities and continues its mission to provide the highest quality health care services through the core strategies of quality and service, people, physician partnerships, strategic growth, financial stewardship, community benefit and philanthropy.
Hoag is a nonprofit regional health care delivery network in Orange County, California, consisting of two acute-care hospitals, 13 urgent care centers, nine health centers and a network of more than 1,700 physicians, 100 allied health members, 7,000 employees and 2,000 volunteers. More than 30,000 inpatients and 450,000 outpatients choose Hoag each year.
