Jul 12, 2023
Beginning your job search as a physician can be a first-rate experience when done efficiently. For years, physicians have been using recruiters as a tool to help them find their next career opportunity. However, when starting the process, it’s important to know what you can (and should) expect from them.
You see, not all recruiters are created equally and knowing what questions to ask can help you sort through the clutter.
Here’s what you should demand from your recruiter:
Transparency
If there is one thing you can demand from your recruiter, it’s transparency. If you ask for information about a position, they should be able to offer it or at the very least disclose to you why they don’t know or can’t share certain information about an opportunity. At the end of the day, a recruiter’s job is to know the positions they are trying to fill. If you feel vital information is being withheld, ask why.
Location of the position
A recruiter should always provide you with the location of the position. With more and more physicians demanding a better work-life balance, it is critical to ensure that the “life” portion is spent in a city or town that you love living in. Withholding location specifics is an outdated model and a good recruiter doesn’t need to rely on secret information to coerce you into applying for a job. A great recruiter will give you all the information he can while also acting as your ‘referral’ to the facility, thus ensuring you get an interview.
Salary
With location being a major deciding factor, salary definitely plays a large part in the decision as well. While not all facilities will disclose this information (even to the recruiter), having the ‘money discussion’ with your recruiter is crucial. Recruiters will usually have an idea of how negotiable the salary is, as well as if sign-on or production bonuses are an option. In the long run, having this conversation can help your recruiter find opportunities that fit what you require. Also, recruiters are very knowledgeable about what different salary averages are based on location. A $200k salary means a lot more in Omaha, Nebraska than it does in Los Angeles.
How much is your recruiting making?
While on the subject of pay, don’t be afraid to ask how your recruiter is being paid to get you hired. Many recruiters get a big paycheck to place you in a specific job, which inevitably can lead to dishonesty and pressure to accept a position you may not truly want. Finding a recruiter that is simply paid a salary to be a resource to you is the best way to ensure you are being pointed in the right direction.
Your best interest
Since the recruiter is your resource, they should be asking questions about you and what you’re looking for. Skimming through work experience and license specifics is not going to lead to your dream job. A recruiter who has your best interest in mind will also ask about your motivations for change and what makes you unique as a care provider and as an individual.
Working with a skilled recruiter can be a pivotal moment for your career if done correctly. Take the time, ask the right questions, and land the best job. Keep this transparency in mind during your next career search and you are sure to find improved results.