Once you have done the grueling work of completing medical school and then your residency, the real fun begins! Looking for a job as a doctor that is. The job hunt you find yourself in is much different than trying to land any other job.

There will be plenty of opportunities as doctors are generally in short supply. This is especially true if you are looking for a job as a specialist. Yet, finding the right job is going to be more of a focused effort to make sure you are in the right situation.

To make sure you are making the right choice for your first job as a doctor, make sure to keep these tips in mind.

1 – Get a recruiter 

You should be a bit picky about the recruiter you contact and make sure that they are looking for the right fit for you and not the right commission for them. Keep in mind that the recruiter gets paid by the employer and this is where their interest really lies.

A good recruiter knows that the better his or her placements with employers are, the more work they will have in the future so it is still in their interest to make sure it is the right fit for you and the employer. Physicians Thrive have a good guide on how to work with a recruiter.

2 – Get your CV done professionally 

A CV is not simply a list of your previous experience or education. It needs to convey that you are the right pick for this particular job. As such, it pays to have a professional do it rather than try it yourself.

A good CV will help you get the job you are looking for and if not done correctly can take you out of the running for the position even if you feel you have the right stuff.

It’s not just your qualifications that count, but how those qualifications are presented that make the difference.

3 – Have your contract reviewed 

The clearest way to know if your potential position is going to be a good fit is going to be found in the contract.

With this in mind, it makes sense to have a lawyer review the contract to get a full understanding of the requirements and benefits that are outlined. Having it reviewed will make sure that you are protected from any surprises later.

You may not like the idea of spending the money for this, but it could save you a lot of money later and a few headaches. It’s better to dodge a bullet than have to sue to get out of a contract later.

4 – Network 

Having lots of connections is likely to be your best bet when it comes to finding a job. Make sure that you are cultivating a network all throughout your education and residency. You will likely have somebody that will take you on or give you a good referral.