When To Start

I’m constantly asked by students, “When should I start looking for a job?”  Well, that may not be as clear of an answer as one would expect.  Job hunting is an art all in its own and requires some savvy skills.  As a new grad therapist, you have a lot to focus on (uh….boards anyone?), so finding that first position can be more of a task than you realize.

Here’s my best answer to the question:  I would start looking approximately two to three months prior to graduation.  Now, here are my caveats to that answer:

One:
If you happen to be a physical therapy new grad taking boards up to three months after graduation, well, then you may want to look approximately two to three months prior to taking your boards.  Occupational therapy students are fortunate to be able to have options to sit for boards more frequently.

Two:
If you are in a market that is saturated or tough, then I would suggest searching even earlier just to get your name out there as it may take you longer to find a job.  Research is a key component in jumpstarting your career.  It’s hard to get started in a job market that doesn’t need your services.  Yes, that’s right folks, you may not be needed and a degree, no matter how much you invested, doesn’t guarantee you a job.  So, find out what the market is like in your geographical area.   If not there, where are the jobs and are they in areas you are willing to relocate? Your university career center will be helpful in this or can direct you on places to look.  If not, use a recruiter. Their services are free to you (or should be) and they are the subject matter experts so pick their brains.  A good one will tell you what you need to know, the good and the bad.  Let them do the work so that you can redirect your focus to other things.   In addition, and this is very important, join a social network or group.  There are plenty of social media networks out there that will have hundreds of people willing to jump in with advice or opinions.  It never hurts to build that network because you will use it for a very long time.  

Keep in mind that the time frame I suggest is purely that – a suggestion.  There are others who may say differently but I’ve found that most facilities like to hear of interest but may wait until your license is in hand.  The key is to be diligent and also to listen to your gut. If you know that you cannot handle a job search while studying for boards at the same time, then don’t or get help through a recruiter.  All in all, you will find a job for certain – it’s just a matter of when. 

Sun Hui (Sunny) Snook graduated with a B.A. in Psychology from Truman State University and received a Master’s in Human Services from Bellevue University. She has been in the healthcare staffing field for 12 years, first working with nurses before moving to a nationwide work strategies consultant where her key responsibilities were to coach staffers and hospital managers on effective staffing. In 2009, Sunny started with Aureus Medical as an Account Manager in the Rehab Therapy division, working with both clients and prospective employees. In 2011, she moved to Student Outreach Coordinator. Sunny was named the 2011 Employee of the Year for C&A Industries, the parent company of Aureus Medical Group. Prior to working in healthcare staffing, she served as an addictions therapist and residential treatment coordinator for five years.