The demand for healthcare IT professionals is intense right now. Hiring seems to be happening, offers are being extended, all good news. What you do and how you conduct yourself during a job search can determine if you will be asked back or receive a job offer. What type of candidate are you? What makes a candidate stand out amongst the competition, or fall out of favor? I would like to give some examples of candidate etiquette and how to become a favorite during a search process.
Style
My experience with candidates and how they communicate tells me a great deal about their style and whether we will be successful working together or if the client will be happy with them as an employee.
- Open, honest, flexible — always a favorite!
- Mysterious, elusive- hmmm, what are they hiding, where did they go?
- Persistent and positive – this is good, stay in touch with me
- Aggressive and demanding – need for a Dale Carnegie course
Preparation
There are many requests I make of candidates while they are in a search. I am always amazed on how fast some candidates can turn around requests such as these:
- Be ready to send your resume
- Edit or update your resume if requested
- Fill in questionnaires and applications promptly
- Send your references when needed and make sure they know they are your reference.
- Be on time for meetings with the recruiter or the client
- Give feedback after client meetings
Winning Attributes
All searches take on a life of their own, so candidates need to allow the recruiter to be their advocate. Here are some ways that some “favorite” candidates have demonstrated their ability to stay on top of my list.
- Be visible
- Call early
- Return calls and emails
- Be helpful, candid and truthful
- Know your achievements and accomplishments
- Stay in close touch
- Be open if things change (other offers pending, family changes their mind, etc.)
- Polite courteous demeanor at a client site
- Positive remarks about current or past employers
- Follow up thank you notes
Landing an executive job in healthcare IT can be challenging in this competitive climate. Good luck!
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