In the midst of systemic physician shortages, recruiting top-tier providers has become even more challenging for healthcare organizations. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, the national unemployment rate at the beginning of 2019 was just 4%. The unemployment rate for the healthcare industry was even lower, coming in at a mere 2.2%. Due to high demand, skilled healthcare providers have multiple job options – and the ability to pick and choose where they want to work. In this environment, healthcare organizations should be cognizant that the balance of power has shifted to job candidates. Organizations must roll out the proverbial red carpet throughout the recruiting process or risk losing qualified candidates to the competition.
The experience of a job candidate during the recruitment and interview process has a significant impact on their decision to accept – or reject – a job offer. In fact, according to a recent survey, 68% of job seekers believe the way they are treated as a job candidate is a reflection of how a company treats its employees. The same survey found that job candidates expect proactive, clear, and frequent communication from a potential employer. This is applicable to the entire recruitment process, from initial contact to interviews to a job offer. If a candidate doesn’t feel valued and important throughout the experience, they can – and likely will – go elsewhere.
How can healthcare organizations ensure job candidates feel like they’re getting the star treatment? Here are some tips for making sure that prospective employees feel valued and that your organization is putting its best foot forward.
Frequent Communication is Vital
Job candidates expect timely and quick communication; it is no longer acceptable to let days (or even hours) go by without responding to queries or sharing updates. This is especially true for healthcare providers that are currently employed and working long hours. Their time is precious; don’t make them wait on you. Check in with candidates regularly to emphasize that you’re keeping them top of mind.
Institute a Well-Oiled Interview Process
Create an organized and cohesive interview process and consistently put it into practice. Form a strong team of interviewers by assembling a good mix of ambassadors and talent who will showcase the organization and the best of your company’s culture. This team should include the hiring manager, the department supervisor, and a potential future co-worker. Consider including a representative from another department, as well. Discuss and decide on interview questions ahead of time so the candidate isn’t being asked the same question repeatedly.
Let Candidates Know What to Expect
Make sure your candidate knows what to expect during the interview process. Set an itinerary for the day and share it beforehand. Take the candidate out to lunch and/or dinner. (Be sure to communicate dress expectations well in advance so they can bring appropriate attire and feel comfortable.) In addition, make sure to designate one of your best people to greet the candidate on arrival, escort them to all meetings, and make sure they have time for breaks during the day. Once an interview is complete, let the candidate know when they can expect to hear from you regarding next steps, and honor that promise.
Make it Personal
Have everyone who spent time with the candidate during the interview process send a follow-up message noting that they enjoyed meeting them. If appropriate, indicate availability for further discussion should the candidate have any additional questions or concerns. Depending on the candidate’s communication preferences, these follow-up messages might be sent in the form of a handwritten note, an email, or a text message.
While compensation will always play a role in candidate decisions, savvy organizations know that the best candidates are interested in more than just the numbers. A healthy company culture and a collaborative workplace environment are just as vital for attracting top talent, especially when it comes to younger healthcare professionals. By showcasing how current and prospective employees (and their time) are valued throughout the entire recruiting cycle, healthcare organizations can increase their appeal – and the likelihood that candidates will choose to become employees.
If your organization needs help finding qualified candidates or constructing a strategic process like the one described above, Jordan Search Consultants can help. Give us a call at 866-750-7231 or email us here.
