Just a quick question which may be a question new grads want to know. What the impact of using a recruiter when looking at a new practice? In essence, do they charge you as the recruit?
Hi all, I wanted to add my two cents since I am a recruiter and I utilize this site using the classifieds area. I realize I am late to the game with my response, but figured this would be beneficial feedback for those who are also reading this thread now or in the future.
First things first... there are quite a few different Recruitment services. We teach this to our programs in-house, so when students leave they have a general idea.
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In-
House Physician Recruitment: These are experienced HR professionals, such as myself, who are EMPLOYED directly through the hospital/school and work directly with the Chair/Chiefs on the search they are conducting. If someone with this background contacts you directly or you are privy to their contact information for a job of interest, take advantage of this as they are your “in” to the hiring manager. No fees, no hidden language, no commission. We work on retention and screen all applicants prior to submitting to the department.
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Contingency Agencies: Recruiters generally will only contact you if they have a role available, can come off as pushy. They only get paid by the practice if they find a viable candidate that has physically signed an offer letter. These fees are covered by the facility and can range from $20k-50k depending on subspecialty.
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Locums “RETAINED” Agencies: These are the agency folks that are usually soliciting you, as well as the hospitals almost daily insisting they have a job/applicant even if they don’t. When they are “retained”, they are paid an on-going rate by a facility to conduct a search. Generally, it is not in your best interest as they care about placement and not your overall well being or retention. You are brought on to fill a temporary void or to eventually have your contract bought out by establishment after a set period. Please keep in mind, this does not mean the establishment is “lazy” as stated above. These are used for medical leave coverage, hard to fill subspecialties, etc.
Do you research on a facility before signing and don’t be afraid to ask on a phone interview why the facility decided to utilize an agency.
Do’s:
• Work with a search firm to cast a wide net- you are busy and may not want to spend your time searching for opportunities
• Ask the recruiter if they are In-House, Retainer, or Contingency
• Be specific about location, practice size, teaching opportunities, etc
• Ask if the recruiter is from your preferred geographic location or has been to the practice
• Ask how your CV will be distributed and how your information will be presented.
Dont’s:
• Work with a search firm that is not a NAPR member (
National Association of Physician Recruiters)
• Work with more than 2 search firms from the same market
• Send your CV to a recruiter representing an opportunity were you have a contact
• Send your CV to a recruiter without agreeing to the rules in an email
• Agree to paying a placement fee
I hope some of you fine the above useful. Best of luck to you all in your programs and your future search!
