4 tips for finding your first PA, NP or rehab therapy job

Each year thousands of PAs, NPs, and rehab therapists graduate looking for their first job.  This year, there will be 23,000 PAs and 6,000 NPs graduating and entering the job market, and in rehab therapy: 8,000 OTs, 10,000 PTs, and 5,000 SLPs.  The good news is that nearly 1.1 million jobs have been added in healthcare since 2014.

Even so, getting your first job out of school can be stressful. Many new grads are worried about landing any job at all, let alone a good one. Fortunately, following a few best practices can help you secure the position you’re looking for. Here are CompHealth’s top four tips to make the job search easier.

1. Use a recruiter

You don’t have to go it alone. Staffing agencies, like CompHealth, can help guide you through the job search process and find a great job. Plus, these services are offered without any charge! CompHealth offers:

• More job listings than other staffing agencies with information updated daily — many with opportunities for on-the-job mentorship

• Consultants who conduct a job search that’s tailored to your unique needs

• Personalized attention and support throughout the process

• Resume assistance and interview scheduling

• Help with licensing requirements and navigating the necessary paperwork

• Contract negotiation assistance and contract reviews

2. Identify what you are looking for

What do you want in a job? Is there a specific setting you want to work in? Is there a specialty you’re hoping to try? It’s also important to look at your personal needs. Do you want to live near friends or family? What kind of a work schedule do you want? Determine which of these are must-haves and which are negotiable. A recruiter can help you talk through these questions and make sure you’re setting realistic expectations and identifying other areas you may not have thought of.

3. Make the interview work for you

Interviewing can be one of the most stressful parts of a job search. It’s important to remember that the interview is as much for you as it is for your potential employer. They want to get to know you and see how you would fit in their facility. But you should be asking similar questions to them as well. Come prepared to ask questions as well as answer them. This is true for both phone and in-person interviews. When interviewing in person, remember to dress appropriately for the position and pay attention to your body language.

4. Optimize the job offer

When you have an offer on the table, it’s time to negotiate. Once the contract is finalized, you won’t be able to change things until it’s time to renew. A recruiter can be a great resource by letting you know what to expect, where you might be able to negotiate for something more, and if you’re leaving out any crucial details like call coverage or overtime pay.

By following these four tips, you’ll increase your chances of finding the right position and stand out from the competition. Good luck on your search!

Want to talk to a recruiter? Call 800.453.3030. Or search for an open position in your specialty.