23 Aug 10 TIPS TO GETTING WORK IN AUSTRALIA’S HEALTHCARE INDUSTRY
The healthcare sector has seen significant jobs growth over the past two decades, so much so that it is now Australia’s largest employer. With a growth rate nearly double the national average, it is estimated that one in eight people are now employed in the healthcare and medical industry nationwide.
While there are plentiful opportunities to secure steady employment in the sector, it can still be incredibly competitive. There is pressure on candidates to be skilled and experienced, and there are usually multiple candidates vying for every role.
Qualifications and practical experience will help you get your foot in the door, but read on to find out ten more tips to help you find regular work in the healthcare industry.
1. Stay Up to Date with News and Trends
The sector is constantly evolving, with technology leading a lot of the change. Make sure that you make an effort to read industry news sources so that you are abreast of the latest updates. It’s also important you ensure that your qualifications and certificates are up to date and meet minimum entry requirements for the roles you’re applying for.
2. Update Your Resume (On and Offline)
Make sure your resume accurately reflects your skills and experience in a clear, easy to read format. You must make sure that a potential employer can quickly get a snapshot of your suitability at a glance. You should also ensure that you have updated your LinkedIn profile so it contains current details, as well as completed a quick check of your public social media information to make sure you’re presenting a professional front.
3. Search on LinkedIn
LinkedIn can connect you with influencers and decision makers in the healthcare industry. Not only can you use it to build your network and form professional relationships with potential peers and recruiters, but you can also use the platform to search for current vacancies as well. Some companies bypass traditional online job boards and will post opportunities on LinkedIn first.
4. Register as a Temporary Worker
While there are many labour hire and recruitment agencies who can place you in short term roles, it’s also possible to take control of your own temping journey. Apps like ANCI let you connect directly with medical and dental practices to find temporary positions – you can see positions available in your location, read reviews about the practice and compare hourly rates as you search. Apps like ANCI also allow you to easily control your availability around other commitments without compromising future work opportunities.
5. Use Your Network
Whether it’s university alumni, former colleagues or other connections you’ve made over the years, make sure you’re actively fostering these relationships. Don’t be shy to let people know the type of work you’re looking for and how they can contact you. It’s important to remember that networking isn’t just about your own needs; regularly look for opportunities that will help the people you want to help you.
6. Proactively Reach Out to Your Dream Employers
Cold canvassing can be a great way to expand your network and it can even help you to land your next job. Try to do your research first –contacting individuals directly instead of using generic email addresses will be more successful. The contacts you make can be more valuable than an initial job offer so try not to be disheartened if you’re initially turned away.
7. Be Honest About Your Plans
It can be tempting to tell white lies or embellish the truth about your experience or intentions, especially when vying for limited positions. It’s important to remember that people move around industries so try not to burn any bridges by implying you’d stay longer in an entry level role than you intend to or overstating your abilities.
8. Be Prepared to Give It Time
Even if you have immediate monetary needs, you need to put some thought into your career journey. Set yourself some realistic goals and put a plan in place to help you achieve them. Temporary work options like those outlined above can help you make an income while you map out your career path.
9. Consider Getting Your Experience in A Regional Centre
If you’re able to do so, moving out of the big cities can be an effective way to build experience. Regional areas and small towns can be really rewarding places to base yourself for a few years while you establish the foundations for your long-term career, especially in the healthcare sector.
10. Get Additional Training
In a particularly competitive field, mandatory minimum qualifications won’t always be enough to land you the position you want. Consider upskilling yourself with additional courses or areas of expertise to help give you an edge over the competition. If you can support your studies with real life job experience, you’ll be even more likely to be successful.
Working in the medical and healthcare industry can be a really rewarding way to make a living. In addition to being part of an ever-growing industry, you get the opportunity to connect with real people and make a meaningful difference in their lives.
What tips do you have to help someone find work in the healthcare industry? Please comment below.
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