Like, friend, connect: The benefits of in-person networking

In a computerized world where Facebook, LinkedIn, Twitter and other social media sites seem to be our primary way of interacting with others, we cannot forget the importance of face-to-face communication.

That’s true even in—especially in—your search for your first or next practice.

The importance of in-person physician networking

As you search and apply to jobs online, it’s important to strive to make a personal connection to stand out in a competitive job market. And the earlier you make that connection, the better.

Besides the quality and content of your cover letter and curriculum vitae, there are few factors that can make you stand out in a sea of paper candidates during that initial search stage.

To overcome these hurdles, PracticeLink offers several ways to help you connect with our network of recruiters and to personalize your job search. One way is through our dedicated Physician Relations team, which is available to answer your job-search questions and help you communicate the “why” of your search criteria to physician recruiters.

Another way we help you stand out to employers is through our new Career Advancement Workshops and Job Fairs—and we’ve just launched a 12-city tour to bring our educational resources, career training and network of recruiters to you!

Why attend career fairs?

Career fairs are a free resource for you and help you find out what employers are hiring. They provide you an excellent opportunity to represent yourself in person and network with recruiters and colleagues.

While browsing the various opportunities, remember to “Like, friend, connect.” Like the opportunity by having engaging conversations with the representative. Friend the opportunity by giving them a copy of your CV and taking a business card. Connect by sending a follow-up email or phone call.

Networking with employers face to face is an essential element of your job search, as you will be building relationships with people who will be able to advocate for you to hiring managers. They will be able to ask you about your skills, experience, family needs and financial requirements. In turn, they will be able to answer any questions that you may have about the position, community or recruitment process.

Another benefit of attending a career fair is the ability to network with fellow physician job seekers who may be able to connect you with positions within their personal network. One of the most important benefits of attending a career fair is the ability to have several impromptu interviews with recruiters, which are great dress rehearsals before you interview for that perfect opportunity!

Network using PracticeLink

PracticeLink’s physician job fairs are unique. One of our main goals is to educate and empower physicians with career advancement resources—relevant and helpful content and trainings.

To that end, our job fairs feature a Career Advancement Workshop—a one-hour informational session that includes time with a panel of physician recruiters.

We cover topics from CV preparation, your job search timeline, FCVS registration, preparing for site visits, contract negation and more. Our events are held at upscale facilities with premium food and free parking—and are the best place to meet and mingle with colleagues and physician recruiters representing facilities nationwide.