Finding Your Path: How to Land the Best Allied Healthcare Staffing Position
Author: October Hess, Director of Recruitment National Travel Division, Remede
You’ve become an allied health professional for a reason. You want to make a difference in the world helping others, and providing financial stability for you and yours. You’ve probably heard the benefits of contract work abound. But is it right for you? How do you find the right position?
Remede has been helping talented allied pros find positions they love for 20+ years so we’ve heard from the best talent how we find the best positions. Hear from our top recruiters, advice you can depend upon to find the best allied healthcare staffing jobs.
What is Allied Healthcare?
Allied healthcare encompasses a wide variety of professions that work alongside doctors and nurses to provide comprehensive patient care. These roles include physical therapists, occupational therapists, radiologic technologists, respiratory therapists, and many others. Each profession contributes uniquely to patient health, making allied healthcare professionals indispensable in the healthcare field.
Where to Start in Job Hunting: Self Assessment and Career Goals
Before diving into the job search, it’s important to take a step back and assess your strengths, interests, and skills. Understanding what you excel at and what you enjoy will guide you towards the right career path. Set realistic career goals and objectives that align with your personal and professional aspirations. This self-awareness will not only make your job search more focused but also increase your chances of finding a role that truly satisfies you.
“Self-assessment is your foundation: reflect on your skills and adaptability, set clear goals, seek mentorship, and embrace lifelong learning. This roadmap will help guide you through travel contracts, turning diverse experiences into professional growth.” – October Hess, Remede’s Director of Recruitment National Travel Division
Education and Certification
Education and certification are critical in allied healthcare. Different professions require specific degrees and licenses, so it’s important to complete and maintain the necessary educational programs, licensure & certification. Ensure that you choose accredited institutions to guarantee the quality of your training. Obtaining relevant certifications and licenses not only meets job requirements but also demonstrates your commitment and competence in your field.
When you work with an allied healthcare staffing agency like Remede, your recruiter can partner with you to ensure your credentials are maintained for the position and state you’ll be working in.
Building a Strong Resume and Cover Letter
Your resume and cover letter are your first impressions to your recruiter and more importantly, potential employers. Highlight your relevant skills, experiences, and accomplishments in a clear and concise manner. Tailor your resume to the specific job you’re applying for, emphasizing the qualifications that make you a perfect fit. Be sure there are no gaps in your employment history. A compelling cover letter can further showcase your passion and dedication, setting you apart from other candidates. Here is my best tip:
“Tailor your resume and cover letter to showcase adaptability and diverse clinical skills. Highlight relevant experiences and certifications, demonstrating your readiness for travel contracts and your commitment to thriving in new environments.” -October Hess, Remede’s Director of Recruitment National Travel Division
Networking and Professional Associations
In the healthcare industry, networking can open doors to job opportunities that might not be advertised. Attend conferences, join online forums, and connect with professionals in your field. Building a strong professional network and joining professional associations can provide valuable insights and referrals. Professional associations offer resources, networking events, and professional development opportunities that can boost your career.
Here are a few of the organizations our top talent often are a part of:
In addition, building a strong relationship with your recruiter can be invaluable. The more they know and trust you, the more they’ll be able to match you with a position that suits your exact needs and preferences.
Allied Healthcare Job Search Strategies
Utilize a variety of job search strategies to maximize your chances of finding the best position.
- Online job boards and healthcare-specific job portals are excellent resources.
- Leverage social media platforms like LinkedIn to connect with potential employers and stay updated on job openings.
- Thoroughly research potential employers and healthcare facilities to ensure they align with your career goals and values.
- Look for job boards and resources from the professional organizations you are a part of.
- Conduct information interviews with people you admire. Learn from them and how they’ve found the best positions.
- It’s not always easy to fit volunteering into your schedule, but you might be surprised how many relationships you build and doors that can open.
- Customize your applications to the specific organization and job you are applying to. Showing you understand their business and role can go a long way to get you from prescreened to job interview.
- Partner with a Staffing Agency that specializes in Allied positions. You’ll be surprised at the nuances they know that will help you get placed in the best jobs, fast.
- Be open to several locations instead of just one, it will help your odds of getting your foot in the door for new opportunities much faster and give your options to pick from
Preparing for Allied Healthcare Job Interviews
You already know that interviews are a critical step in the job search process. Prepare by practicing common interview questions and answers related to your field. Focus on showcasing your soft skills, such as communication and empathy, which are highly valued in healthcare. Present a professional demeanor and demonstrate your enthusiasm for the role. Being well-prepared can significantly boost your confidence and performance during interviews.
“Prepare for over-the-phone interviews by researching the facility, practicing common interview questions, and formulating thoughtful questions to ask. Demonstrate your adaptability and enthusiasm for travel work, ensuring you convey both your clinical expertise and your readiness to embrace new challenges.” – October Hess, Remede’s Director of Recruitment National Travel Division
Consider Location and Work Environment Options
Today more than ever work locations and environments are wide-ranging. Explore your options before assuming you’ll be stuck in the status quo. Choosing the right location and work environment is essential for job satisfaction. Consider factors such as:
- Urban versus rural settings
- Local culture and attractions
- Cost of living
- Proximity to family and friends
- Employer name recognition – how it will look on your resume
- Bucket list of life experiences – e.g. snowboarding in Vale or walking the Golden Gate bridge
With contract and travel staffing positions, you can often choose a position that fulfills those factors that matter most to you so let your recruiter know what you want and ask a lot of questions.
Continuing Education and Professional Development
The healthcare field is constantly evolving, so making time for continuing education is crucial for your career advancement. Stay updated with industry advancements by participating in continuing education opportunities. Pursuing advanced certifications and specializations can enhance your skills and open doors to higher-level positions. And don’t forget skill development doesn’t have to be just a formal certification class. Think about training things like emotional intelligence or professional speaking to push your limits and your earning potential. Lifelong learning not only keeps you competitive but also demonstrates your dedication to providing the best patient care.
The Best Allied Healthcare Job for You
Finding the best allied healthcare job requires a combination of self-assessment, education, networking, and strategic job searching. And for many professionals, a partnership with a trusted recruiter from an allied staffing agency. By following these tips, you can navigate the job market with confidence and secure a rewarding position that aligns with your career goals. Remember, a career in allied healthcare is not just a job—it’s a chance to make a meaningful impact on patients’ lives every day.
If you’re ready to speak to a Remede recruiter, apply for a job or reach out to us here.