Changing requires a Strategy

Deciding to change employers is a big decision.   In Healthcare, for Clinicians, this can be a daunting task if not handled properly.   In the same way a Healthcare system has a strategy in place before implementing changes, every clinician needs to devise a strategy for their next role. A few pointers to consider when the thought crosses your mind about changing.

First, take time to understand what is the driver for you to make a change?   Next, determine whether the change you are seeking is available with your current employment. If it is not, and you are seeking more challenges or opportunities to grow your career, you need to develop a plan.   Many people change employers without understanding what they are looking for, since their focus is simply changing from the current situation. While these individuals usually have a good idea of what they do not want, often the focused priority is undefined or may be singular such as increasing income or changing location.   While there can be a myriad of reasons to seek a change, it is important to know if this idea to change is based upon objective measures or is it an emotional response?    Are the reasons or the reason for the change a temporary or a more long-term experience?    When you have defined for yourself why you want to change roles, you owe it to yourself to establish a plan.  

Start with understanding what you are looking for and write it down.  Next, you should prioritize what you are looking for from most to least important.   What is non-negotiable and what is open for discussion?   Consider your priorities across multiple categories:

1)      Challenges of the role

2)      Financial (short and long term)

3)      Growth/Advancement/Educational opportunities

4)      Location (consider important non-work-related items such as schools, medical care, activities, cost of living, etc.)

5)      Reputation of the organizations in your industry (review the news items)

6)      Schedule flexibility

7)      Autonomy

8)      Financial stability of the organizations in your industry

9)      Licensure requirements (how long does it take, how much does it cost?)

10)  Timing (What is the time frame for making a change?)

You may have other considerations specific to your situation, however, the above list should be a good starting point.  Now make a second list of what you want to avoid. Are there specific organizations you do not want to work for? Are you determined not to work weekends or night shifts or take call? When considering your lists, understand what areas are you open to modifying? If your priorities and your restrictions are too strict, you may be waiting in your current situation for longer than you anticipate.

When you have determined your priorities and restrictions, it makes sense to engage with a professional who can do the heavy lifting of finding the right opportunities for you and serve as a mediator when it comes to negotiating an offer.   The professional should not cost you anything as the far majority are paid by the employer.  

At Central Health Management, we have a team of experienced professionals who work with Clinicians across the country.   Each one takes the time to understand your priorities and restrictions in order to work with you in the way you want to be represented and communicated with.   To learn more about working with one of our team members visit us at www.centralhealthmanagement.com or contact me directly at sdeighton@centralhlth.com