As of November 2023, there were almost 50,000 NHS nursing vacancies. The nursing vacancy rate was at a staggering 11.8 %. These stats indicate a rapidly increasing demand for qualified nurses in the healthcare industry. While this is a promising opportunity for many young nurses looking to start their careers, it is also a moment to get yourselves prepared.
Understanding the nursing recruitment trends will help you stay ahead of the competition and show up at the interview more confidently. So, if you want to land the best job out there, this article will help you. Below, we are sharing the top trends in the nursing recruitment sector, you just need to ensure you tick all the boxes.
They’re Looking For You In The Digital World
Employers in the healthcare industry have shifted their gear towards digital tools to streamline the recruitment process. Not only are they looking for rising talent on online job sites, but they’re also preferring candidates who include their passion for nursing in their social media stream. Moreover, if you’re not already an active member of online healthcare communities, or nursing social media groups on Facebook, we suggest, you become one this very instant.
Actively engaging with existing healthcare professionals via social media networks gives you the competitive edge of staying up to date with the latest news, views, and developments. You can use this vital information during your job interview. Recruiters always shortlist candidates who are more knowledgeable in their respective fields.
Don’t Miss Virtual Recruitment Events & Webinars
One of the biggest post-pandemic trends is online meetings, live webinars, and virtual recruitment events. Online job fairs are now more common than you think. You just have to make sure that you register for every virtual recruitment event as this can double your chances of getting hired. The best part is it’s also great for you because it costs you nothing as you can be a part of the event from your home. It also saves you the trouble of getting ready for every interview. So you save both time and money, isn’t that great?
Such meetings and events also allow you to view the healthcare organisation’s facilities, work system, and culture. Virtual events make it easier for you to go after opportunities from all around the world. When it comes to live webinars from healthcare industry professionals, the most important thing is the post-session Q & As. You can inquire about your concerns, clear your misconceptions, learn about new ways to secure a decent job, and also portray yourself as the most deserving candidate.
Watch Out For The Collaborations
To ensure a steady flow of qualified nurses in their healthcare organisations, most employers collaborate with top nursing schools. If you’re in a nursing school, make sure that you enlist your name for the program. However, if you are thinking about switching your nursing school, make sure the next one is known for such collaborations with big names in the healthcare industry.
These collaboration programs allow nurses to train according to the requirements of the real healthcare world. Sometimes, they even offer other forms of programs such as training courses, clinical rotations, tuition reimbursements, and special mentorship programs. These can prove to be a valuable addition to your academic career, not to mention you might even get selected by a top healthcare organisation. So, our advice is don’t underestimate these collaborations.
Showcase Your Talent On Online Job Portals
Creating a captivating profile on an online job portal is more helpful for your nursing career than you might think. You can add your qualifications, experience, and accreditations to make your profile more appealing. Indeed and LinkedIn are the best places for you to get noticed by recruiters and employers.
You can also become a member and buy subscriptions that allow you to boost your profile and put it among the top candidates. However, boosting alone won’t be enough as your qualification is the biggest determining factor. Another promising aspect of these portals is the fact that new opportunities are available often. You can also create a cover letter and upload it with your resume on the portal and applying for a job becomes only a matter of a click.
Bottom Line:
Knowing about all these current trends in the recruitment industry and preparing for them in advance will certainly make your way to a decent job easier. However, nursing is one profession that needs compassion more than any other element. Of course, you chose this field because you wanted to care for those in need. Nonetheless, keeping that spark alive is what will help you stick to your job in the long run.
We hope this article will help you with your job search. For more information like this, keep reading our blog.