Experiencing an unexpected redundancy can strike panic into even the most steadfast Physician. If you find yourself in these circumstances and need a quick career transition, there are a few steps you need to take now to get back on track.
- A Stat Tune Up of Your Resume/CV
The first impression you make on a prospective employer often comes from your resume, so make it count. To optimize your impact, consider these tips:
- Resume or Curriculum Vitae- Which is Best?
Many Physicians are steeped in the idea that CV’s are the only format to use when applying for employment. While they provide a lengthy narrative of your academic, research, and employment prowess, they are not always the best option when applying for positions outside of academia. Busy hiring managers often do not have the time to wade through a 7+ page document of research and teaching experience to glean relevant details for the position. Make it easy for them to appreciate your relevant experience by streamlining your CV to a resume format for non-academic opportunities. This can increase the likelihood of getting noticed and scheduled for an interview where you can wow them with all the details.
- Consider Using a Functional Resume Format
The resume format you choose can affect the impact you have on a prospective employer. A popular choice for a standard applicant is the chronological format. This lists your employment history in order starting with the most recent job. While this is a commonly utilized format, it may not be the best choice for Physicians applying to positions that are a departure from their previous work in medicine. Applicants who are expanding their career options into new areas may benefit from using a functional resume format. This format places emphasis on a Physician’s relevant skill sets and experience, while deemphasizing any time gaps or career transitions.
- Focus on the Job Requirements, Not the Title
Prospective employers lay out exactly what they are looking for in an ideal new hire in their job requirements description. To increase your chances of landing the job, be sure that your resume reflects the requirements expressed in the posting. This simple adjustment can make it easier than ever for employers to see that you are the perfect fit.
- Should You Hire a Professional Resume Writer?
Not everyone is blessed with fantastic writing skills. If this sounds like you, consider reaching out to a professional that can help with formatting and editing your resume. It will be money well spent.
- Network, Network, Network
Utilizing contacts within your professional community and on social media can be a great way to find out about opportunities, while also getting the word out that you are on the job hunt. Try reaching out to friends, old classmates, professional society contacts, and colleagues to get the ball rolling on your search for new employment.
- Prepare for Virtual Interviews and Career Fairs
Virtual interviews and Career Fairs are now the norm thanks to COVID 19, so be sure to prepare for online participation. It is essential to ensure that your computer equipment, interview space, and social media accounts are on point and portraying a positive image prior to interviewing.
Virtual Career Fairs are also a great way to meet a variety of employers from the comfort of your home on a flexible schedule. To learn more about the benefits of these fairs or to sign up for an upcoming virtual fair, check out our upcoming schedule.
- Consider Locum Tenens Work
Locum Tenens work offers numerous benefits to Physicians seeking career-bridging employment opportunities. Many LT employers offer benefits that cover housing, travel, or liability insurance, while providing generous compensation for their new hires.