The outlook is good for healthcare employment. The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics predicts that this employment sector will grow 12 percent by 2031. But even in the face of this encouraging statistic, you need to understand how to successfully navigate the job market in order to find your ideal role.

Leverage your networks.

Put both your professional and personal networks to use as you build your healthcare career. You never know when or where you may make just the right connection and hear about a new opportunity. Among great places to start are your credential program and academic colleagues.
• If you’ve completed an apprenticeship, contact your supervisor there. You can also utilize college career services and their resources.
• Participate in networking events including conferences and workshops.
• Actively participate in LinkedIn groups and conversations.

Research potential employers.

Be sure you apply only to schools that reflect your personal values, as well as your professional goals. To help ensure this, research prospective employers through their websites, social media presence, and any personal contacts you can make. Be selective so you can find the work environment, benefits, and growth opportunities you’re looking for.

Use healthcare-specific job boards.

Online career sites can be very helpful, but be sure to include those that are specific to the healthcare industry, such as Nurse Recruiter. On every site you use, be as specific as possible with your keyword description as you narrow down your search.
• Search by job title variations, experience, and your credentials, certifications, and licensures. You can also set up alerts for new postings that match your criteria.

Perfect your resume.

It’s highly likely that your resume will need to pass through some form of applicant tracking system (ATS) as an initial screen, before it even reaches a human for review. So, be sure to include specific school-based healthcare keywords, which you can find in job postings. Customize your resume and cover letter for each position for which you apply.

Update your social profile.

Make sure there is consistency between your current resume and your social profile, because potential employers will check both. Maintain a professional image and be sure to keep all social content related to you clear of anything inappropriate or compromising.

Practice your interviewing skills.

Even the most savvy professional can find job interviews nerve wracking. Selling yourself isn’t always easy. Be well prepared by rehearsing responses to common and open-ended questions. In addition, make a list of questions of your own. Employer expect this and in fact, generally consider it a plus on your part. Every interview should be a two-way street, with you assessing an employer just as much as they are assessing you.

Spring is in the air and it’s a great time to take your career to the next level – with expert guidance from Covelo Group. Our specialized, experienced recruiters connect school-based healthcare professionals with in-demand jobs in California and nationwide. Check out the listings at our Career Center and reach out to us today to learn more.