Crafting the Perfect Physician Job Ad: A Guide for Healthcare Recruiters
Step 1 for any recruiter looking to fill positions is easy: write an effective job ad. That’s especially true today, with so many recruiters vying for the attention of qualified physicians. Your ad must stand out to attract the best candidates.
To view current ads—or post—please visit PhysEmp.com.
This step-by-step guide will help you create a compelling job ad for a physician position using industry best practices.
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Start with a Strong Title
Since job title is the first thing candidates will see, make it clear, concise, and specific. Avoid vague terms and focus on the essential elements of the job. For example:
Weak: Physician Needed
Strong:
- Experienced Internal Medicine Physician for Prestigious Healthcare Facility in Boston, MA
- Full Time Family Practice Job in Redlands, CA
- Part-Time Cardiology Job Sacramento, CA
- Locum Tenens Family Practice Job Los Angeles, CA
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Craft an Engaging Introduction
The introduction—that is, your first line—is your chance to grab the candidate’s attention. Highlight what makes the position and your organization unique. Mention any awards, recognitions, or unique aspects of the practice.
Well-written examples:
- Join our award-winning healthcare team at Cincinnati Medical Center, where we provide innovative patient care and cutting-edge research.
- Come practice in New York City. Experience everything this famous city has to offer from top-notch nightlife, professional sports, concerts, culture, fine arts, and fine dining.
- With this opportunity in Meeker you can explore world-class hiking, biking, and motorized recreation trails. Fishing and water activities abound at the many streams, lakes, reservoirs, and the famed White River.
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Provide a Detailed Job Description
Clearly outline the responsibilities and expectations of the position. This is the core of your ad. It will help candidates understand what their day-to-day role will entail.
Examples:
- You will provide comprehensive care to adult patients in an outpatient setting
- 100% outpatient; light phone call (nurse triaged)
- You’ll typically see approx. 18-22 ppd
- Spanish speaking a plus
- Sign-on bonus of $50k-$100k (depending on the contract length)
- Base pay plus incentives
- Participate in patient education and preventive care programs
- Contribute to clinical research and quality improvement initiatives
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Highlight the Key Qualifications
List both the required and preferred qualifications, including education, certifications, and experience. Be specific to ensure that you attract only qualified candidates.
Examples:
Required Qualifications:
- MD or DO degree from an accredited medical school
- Board certification in Internal Medicine
- Valid state medical license
- Minimum of 3 years of clinical experience
Preferred Qualifications:
- Experience in a teaching hospital or academic medical center
- Strong commitment to patient care and clinical excellence
- Excellent communication and interpersonal skills
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Showcase Benefits and Opportunities
Today’s physicians often look for positions that offer professional growth, work-life balance, and attractive benefits. Clearly outline what this position offers. For example:
We offer:
- Competitive salary with performance-based incentives
- Sign-on bonus and malpractice coverage provided
- CME offered; vacation/holiday time provided
- Comprehensive benefits package including health, dental, and vision insurance
- Generous PTO and CME allowances
- Opportunities for professional development and advancement
- Supportive work environment with a focus on work-life balance
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Include Alluring Information about the Location
Many candidates consider location of the job to be a significant factor in their decision-making process. Provide details about the community, lifestyle, and any unique local amenities.
Examples:
- Vallejo is 30 minutes northeast of San Francisco and near the beautiful Napa Valley wine country. A strong economy and affordable housing have meant new prosperity for Vallejo. The city has a ferry terminal, which helped make Vallejo a commuter hub for the North Bay. Other attractions include Six Flags Marine World, restaurants, and the downtown Farmers Market.
- Boston is a vibrant city known for its rich history, cultural diversity, and top-tier educational institutions. Enjoy world-class dining, beautiful parks, and a variety of recreational activities. Whether you’re looking to explore the arts scene or enjoy outdoor adventures, Boston has something for everyone.
- Vancouver is a city on the north bank of the Columbia River directly across from Portland, Ore. The Cascade Mountains rise on the east. The spectacular Columbia River Gorge National Scenic Area lies 30 minutes away. Vancouver combines the excitement of a major metropolitan area with small-town charm and abundant recreational opportunities.
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Final Considerations
To ensure that your ad incorporates best practices, review it carefully, ensuring that it meets these considerations:
- Optimize for Search Engines. To increase your ad’s visibility, use relevant keywords that physicians might use when searching for jobs. Use terms like “Internal Medicine Physician,” “Outpatient Care,” and “Boston Medical Jobs” throughout the ad.
- Use a Professional and Inviting Tone. Your writing should reflect the professionalism of your organization, while being inviting and approachable. Avoid jargon and ensure the language is clear and engaging.
- Proofread and Review. Before posting, proofread the ad for any errors and to ensure all information is accurate. You might have a colleague review it to catch any mistakes.
Candidates Will Click “APPLY”!
By following these practices, your ad will have a greater chance to attract top-tier candidates and set you apart from the competition. On the PhysEmp website, that means a click the large blue APPLY button in the upper right of the page.
Happy recruiting!
Written by Kaitlon Gentry
