Chiropractic Job Search Mistakes You Don’t Want to Make

If you are starting a chiropractic job search for an associate position, here are a few search mistakes you definitely don’t want to make!

  1. No Curriculum Vitae or Resume: It sounds so simple, yet it seems like 20% of those who are in the midst of a chiropractic job search and applying for an associate chiropractor position do not have a CV or Resume ready (or at all).  When helping a client find their next chiropractic associate, even if we ask for the applicant to submit their resume, in too many cases, we do not receive one.  Or there is a two week delay after they submit their application, presumably because the chiropractic is busy creating their CV.  Don’t be one of these doctors – first impressions count.
  2. Contact information. Perhaps even more surprising is the number of chiropractors who inquire about a chiropractic associate position (or even chiropractic practice for sale) and then do not include their contact info. This should be a simple and mandatory part of every chiropractic job search.  Since you don’t know what type of technology the hiring doctor prefers – include both your email and a cell phone.
  3. Lack of LinkedIn Profile – for chiropractors who possess a minimum of technical savvy, LinkedIn is perhaps the best platform to conduct a chiropractic job search — from both sides of the fence.  With a LinkedIn profile, you can show off your stuff in more detail and an easy to read format online so that employers can quickly get a glimpse of who you are.  And LinkedIn works great in reverse as well – you can view a potential employers profile and learn about them too. (Hint: you can expand your network and opportunities simply by connecting with us on LinkedIn to join others who are searching for associate positions, associates to hire and practice sales!
  4. Check the Practice Website: If possible, you should check the website for any practice that you are considering for an associate position as a part of your chiropractic job search. It’s not always possible to do this as sometimes owners advertise anonymously, especially in situations where their current associate is not working out and they need to hire a replacement.  However, you can avoid a lot of wasted time for yourself (and the practice owner) by simply finding out a bit about their practice BEFORE you apply.  And during an interview, if you are able to speak with a little knowledge about the practice, you’ll score extra points for being prepared!
  5. Disorganized CV’s. A well-organized resume allows an employer to easily learn about you. That means making sure that each section is titled appropriately and only includes that information. For example, in a section labeled “Work History” you do not want to include other information like volunteer experience, presentations, or licensure. This can make it difficult for an employer to find the information they need. Also, make sure to keep all dates in reverse chronological order to make it easier to go through employment history. Similarly, any gaps in your resume should be explained.  So if you were officially unemployed for two years while traveling Europe, don’t just let those years mysteriously missing from your CV, find a creative way to express what you did or learned during your travels – and include the dates!
  6. The Late Reply:  If and when an employer contacts you, reply to them promptly so that you are fresh in their mind and so that you make a good impression.  When a practice owner reaches out to you, it’s likely that they are hearing from a number of other candidates as well, so if you reply a week later, it shows a lack of interest or organization or both.  For some reason, if you were on vacation or prevented from replying, a quick apology and explanation for your delayed reply will help them from getting the wrong impression about you.
  7. Not Minding Your Manners:  When a chiropractic practice owner talks about a job opportunity with you, don’t forget to express your appreciation and thank them for the interview or their interest in you.  Even if you are not a great fit for the job (or their practice is not a good fit for you), keep in mind that we are in a very small profession.  A courteous response to a potential employer may not land you their job, but they could easily recommend you to a friend or colleague that will hire you or be a better fit.  I’ve seen this happen many times and in fact, we just helped out in a situation where the young DC was not a great fit for the associate position.  The employer, however, really was impressed with her personality and work ethic so he referred her to a friend – who promptly hired her!

Hope these tips served as simple reminders of the “basics” that too many chiropractors forget during their chiropractic job search.

Need help finding an associate chiropractor position or practices for sale?  Use our FREE Chiropractic Practice Match program where we will help you locate a perfect practice for you!

 

Not sure if an associate position or practice sale is the best next step for you? Check out our FREE WEBINAR: Buy, Build or Break Up: How to Make the Next Best Move for Your Chiropractic Career