Tips for Recruiters in the Healthcare Industry
If we have learned anything during the COVID-19 pandemic, it is that our doctors and nurses are true heroes that work tirelessly to keep us safe and healthy. With that said, the unfortunate fact is that, although careers in the medical field are incredibly fulfilling, there is a shortage of qualified medical professionals working at our nation's hospitals. This situation puts recruiters in an interesting situation.
Recruiters who want to bring in the best medical talent need to revise their strategies and create alluring job listings that will draw the attention of your desired audience. To help on this front, we have compiled some information and helpful tips that could help you get the best candidates through the door.
Staffing In The Healthcare Industry
As mentioned, there is currently a bit of a labor crisis in the healthcare industry and a shortage in the foreseeable future as one-third of physicians currently working in healthcare are retiring during the next decade. While it is unfortunate to see so many well-qualified professionals exit the industry, that is not the only issue. With a large portion of our population reaching age 65, a rise in the frequency of dangerous diseases like diabetes and drug use, and the continuation of the COVID-19 pandemic, the need for more physicians and nurses has never been more obvious.
When recruiting the nurses and physicians necessary to keep our hospitals running smoothly, find employees who have the skills to help with the more common ailments. A first step for finding the right people is to use an applicant tracking system (ATS). These awesome programs keep all applicants in a database that is easy to use and track. On top of that, the system can also separate resumes that list specific skills that are required for the desired position so the recruiter can call the best candidates first and save time.
While general practitioners are always needed, many medical fields are growing by leaps and bounds and talented recruiters are needed to fill the gap. Some of these high-demand positions include physician assistants, radiation therapists, athletic trainers, and pharmacy technicians, just to name a few. If you are a recruiter that represents any of these positions, then time is of the essence.
Put It In the Job Listing
While finding the right people for your organization is key, with a labor shortage, it is more important than ever that recruiters are doing everything in their power to attract the top talent in the first place. That process begins with the job listing. You need to take the time to create powerful listings that advertise the best points of the company you represent.
With COVID-19 still being a factor in hospitals, many candidates are worried about getting sick at work, so tout your safe and friendly environment along with your vaccination policy as a starting point. In addition to the safety, say a bit about the company culture. What are the goals of your medical establishment? What are the core values and what does the future hold? Tell potential candidates how they will be a great fit within this culture.
At the bottom of the description, place your call to action (“Apply Here”) and make it easy to apply within a couple of minutes.
Once you have crafted the perfect job listing, it is time to present the position to the masses. If you don’t get many hits on common job listing websites like Careerbuilder, then it is a smart idea to work with a recruiter or job placement service to post the position on websites within the healthcare niche.
If the candidates don’t come to you, remember that you can go to them by attending job fairs specifically intended for those in the medical care industry and you can interview potential candidates right there on the spot.
Perks And Benefits
Your job listing should also mention the myriad perks and benefits that your healthcare practice offers and keep those promises when the candidates are ultimately hired. Of course, the pay rate will be a major draw so list the pay range right there in the listing so people know what they are getting into when they apply. The current demand for nurses means that annual salaries are in a good place, so don’t be afraid to share.
Right now, the need for nurse practitioners and certified registered nurse anesthetists are making these some of the highest paying positions so say so in your recruiting materials and mention any additional bonuses that may be offered. Someone who enjoys nursing likely has a desire to keep learning, so if you offer any tuition reimbursement or promotional opportunities then be sure to mention those in the listing as well.
Another major perk that is drawing in candidates is the desire for a work/life balance. Many people are aware of the stress and long hours often required of doctors and nurses, and some candidates simply are not excited about working a 16-hour shift, especially those with children and large families. If you can promise flexible hours and shorter shifts, then you could lure in the top prospects.
As you can see, it is very important that recruiters nationwide continue to concentrate their efforts on filling the gaps in our healthcare industry. A great recruiter is only as good as the staffing agency they work for, and at American Recruiters, we have all of the tools and services available to help hire within the medical community and beyond.
Ainsley Lawrence is a freelance writer with an interest in balanced living through education and technology. She loves travelling to beautiful places and is frequently lost in a good book.