Tackling the Job Search

So you are finished with your residency or fellowship training and ready to find a job? With that in mind, here are some tactics for you to tackle your job search and find the perfect position!

  1. The Web – searching the web is one of the most convenient ways to begin your job search. There are lots of different sites and options for you to actively (you do the searching) and passively (recruiters contact you) look for a job.
    • Online Job Boards – seek out the appropriate job board for your specialty. Some examples include: the New England Journal of Medicine Career Center, HealtheCareers, or your Society Website (aka. American College of Surgeons, American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists, etc.)
    • LinkedIn – An online networking website. Hospitals and recruiters are using LinkedIn more frequently to advertise new positions and reach out to candidates.
    • Doximity – This is like LinkedIn, but for physicians only. You can network with peers and recruiters can contact you directly with job inquiries.
    • PracticeLink– This site allows you to upload your CV and other details about yourself. There are also job boards for you to search and apply for positions (active) and recruiters can also research prospective physicians and contact you directly to see whether you are interested in applying (passive).
    • PracticeMatch – Another option similar to PracticeLink, although much more intense. Representatives from PracticeMatch will contact you for an in-depth interview and then provide those details to the hospitals or other groups that subscribe to their service.
    • When all else fails… just Google "gynecology jobs in NJ" or "colorectal surgeon in New York City" and see where it takes you!
  2. Face-to-Face Networking – do not underestimate the power of networking in your job search. This is a great way to learn about the job market and also uncover new job opportunities. Possible avenues for face-to-face networking include:
    • Career Fairs
    • Professional Organization Meetings
    • Society Meetings or Conferences
  3. Hospital (In-House) Recruiters - often hospitals employ their own physician recruitment team. If you'd like to stay in New Jersey, don't forget to contact the Physician recruitment team, who supports physician recruitment for Barnabas Health. Additionally, your program coordinator will often be contacted by recruiters with new job opportunities. So when you're ready to begin your search, just ask your coordinator to keep you notified about opportunities that he or she receives.
  4. Cold Calling – especially if there is a specific region or practice you want to work for, just pick up the phone and call them! They may not be actively advertising for a new associate, but since you're making it easy for them, it may entice them to hire! It doesn't hurt to try.
  5. Physician Search Firms – depending on your search, physician search firms or recruitment firms can be helpful in your hunt for a job. Especially if you plan to move across country or don't know much about a particular region, search firms can sometimes do a lot of legwork for you. However, depending on which firm you use there may be disadvantages to consider. You may be pressured for a decision or the fee associated with your candidacy may make you less attractive to a potential employer (firms make money when you a sign a contract… sometimes a percentage of your contract, sometimes a flat fee of $20,000 or more). Before reaching out to a search firm, try out some of the other options listed above.