Today in the medical industry
GP Jobs are more in demand than ever, not only because of the reduction in NHS and private sector budgets but also due to the increased influx of experienced overseas GPs working in the UK. Although it may be tempting to apply for every GP position available, regardless of the position's requirement for experience and perhaps your lack of the same (for example), don't. It is likely your CV will be thrown away and even worse, you may be remembered as not having the requirements and skill sets necessary for any future positions that may arise. The first tip to remember is the NHS or private sector companies are in the driver's seat, even in this competitive climate it is advisable to cherry pick the positions you apply for, and make the best of those applications, rather than sending out a standard application for many jobs.
Of course, many GPs want to work at locations of their choice and on the days that suit them. Being more accommodating to the surgery or hospital in terms of availability will give you a much better chance of securing a job.
As a GP you do not have to apply for every job directly. Try using a medical recruitment agency. You will then be able to inform the agency when you are free to work, if you will accept work at short notice or will work as an out of hours GP, for example, where you are more likely to receive higher paid shifts. Furthermore, many recruitment consultants have online systems to process CVs which are accessible to many of the main employment bodies. By submitting your CV to these agencies you are at an advantage as they are the first place both HR professionals and potential employers look when trying to fill a position.
It may also be worth applying for a lower level position. Although many people see this as a backwards step in their career this is not always the case in the medical industry and may be the first step towards your perfect job. In this instance understanding what potential opportunities could arise is the key so do not be afraid to look for jobs below your current level and ask questions about career progression in your interview. Remember, the interview process can help you decide if the job is right for you as well as whether you are right for the job. Ensure you promote any specialist skills you have acquired in previous positions or even outside of work. Making these skills stand out on your CV is essential and could be the difference between securing a job or otherwise. In addition to setting out the qualifications you hold which are general requirements for a GP on your CV, also include any specialist areas you may have experience in such as Accident & Emergency, Anaesthetics, Cosmetic, Dental, General Medicine Obstetrics & Gynaecology, Out of hours GPs, Paediatrics, Pathology, Psychiatry, Radiology, and Surgical.
Build on your network and try to meet as many new people in your field as possible. Should you hear that somebody you have acquainted or somebody your friend knows works in a particular medical field you want to be employed in, you should get in touch. You should ask them questions about what they do, show them your CV and ask for pointers and tips. People enjoy talking about themselves and they also love to give advice about their area of expertise. Be confident in your approach and this will at worst lead you to acquiring some valuable information.
We are only human and all make mistakes from time to time. We will experience that success is difficult to come by and requires a lot of effort. There are some jobs that you will not get or even receive a call back when submitting your CV. The reason you will get the job of your dreams is your drive and determination to overcome these obstacles and learn from your mistakes. You should learn to use any rejection to form yourself into the perfect candidate.
And finally, have a passion for what you do. If you are not fully committed you are going to struggle to attain the best positions. If you have a passion for a specialist medical area this will be expressed better in your CV and during an interview. You can do this by becoming involved in your industry, by attending seminars, reading white papers or commenting on interesting medical articles on blogs and forums. By surrounding yourself with this information and people from within the field you will eventually be guaranteed that perfect GP job.