14.1 The Job Search
Kristen Hosey
Online Searches
For many, the job search starts online. Some people search to get an idea of available opportunities and salary ranges, while others are engaged in a more serious job hunt. There are many ways to review online job resources beyond a simple Google search.
The most common websites for job searching include:
- Indeed: A free website that offers salary information and company reviews, although some listings may be outdated
- Monster Jobs: A free website that does not require an account, but it may have fewer search filters and options, as employers cannot post jobs for free.
- Glassdoor: A free website providing salary information and reviews, although reviews can sometimes be biased.
While these websites offer general job listings, job seekers interested in healthcare careers may find more success by exploring specialized job boards for healthcare professionals. These websites are tailored to help job seekers find positions that align with their specific interests, skills, and training. Here are some additional free job search websites focused on healthcare:
- Hospital Careers: Displays jobs by healthcare category and provides additional resources, such as career advice and insights, alongside job postings.
- Health eCareers: Offers search engines by profession, specialty, or location, although it has fewer categories than Hospital Careers.
- iHirePharmacy: Focuses specifically on pharmacy-related jobs, including positions for pharmacy technicians, sales representatives, and pharmacy consultants.
- Nurse.com: One of the largest job boards for nursing positions. In addition to job postings, it provides articles and information on career advancement, nursing schools, and degree programs.
- HealthJobsNationwide: A comprehensive site for healthcare professionals nationwide, which also allows users to upload and boost their resumes (requires an account).
- CareerVitals: Does not require an account and claims to have one of the largest databases of healthcare job listings.
Many job seekers also use LinkedIn or other professional portfolio websites, such as Portfolium, to create profiles, showcase their work, and find jobs. LinkedIn allows users to create free accounts, upload resumes, and connect with other professionals. It functions similarly to social media platforms such as Facebook, offering the ability to get endorsements from connections. Companies can also use LinkedIn to review applicants and recruit for positions. However, for those in immediate need of a job, it may be more effective to proactively search on the websites listed above or use the tips outlined in this chapter.
Professional associations, such as those for nursing or radiology, often provide job postings in their journals, which are typically available to members. These associations can also offer opportunities for continuing education and networking with potential employers.
Job seekers may also refer to government resources such as the U.S. Department of Labor or the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics. These websites offer valuable information on job market trends, including salary data and job growth projections. This can help job seekers determine competitive salaries and assess whether training costs align with potential earnings. State-level employment data is also available, such as through the Washington State Employment Security Department, which provides wage and employment information searchable by county.
Finally, various professional organizations, unions, hospitals, clinics, and academic institutions may offer job postings on their websites. Local, state, and national hospital organizations, in particular, often list job openings that can be worth reviewing for those seeking hospital positions.
As part of the job-seeking process, it is essential to research potential employers to ensure that the organization aligns with your career goals and values. This includes reviewing the company’s vision, mission statement, benefits, and employee reviews. Websites where consumers share their experiences can be particularly helpful in providing insight into what both patients and employees think about the organization.
Networking Opportunities
Columbia University (2025) defines networking as the process of making connections and building relationships, which can lead to job opportunities or career advice. Many job seekers use social media platforms, such as LinkedIn, as a form of virtual networking to connect with potential employers. However, in-person opportunities, such as professional conferences and job fairs, can also be valuable for learning about job opportunities and expanding professional networks.
High schools, colleges, and universities often host job fairs for students and alumni. These events may take place in gymnasiums, foyers, or atriums, and typically feature booths and recruiters from organizations with current or upcoming job openings. Some institutions also set up tables to promote educational programs designed to advance careers. For job seekers still uncertain about their career path or preferred organizations, attending a career fair can be an excellent opportunity to ask questions and gain clarity. Recruiters may also provide information about perks such as sign-on bonuses, on-the-job training, and scholarship or loan repayment options, details that may not be readily available online. It is important to arrive at these fairs well-prepared: dressed professionally, groomed, and ready to engage with recruiters.
Professional conferences also provide excellent networking opportunities, although they can sometimes be expensive due to registration fees. Before planning to attend, it is essential to check the registration costs, as some events may be prohibitively expensive, with fees ranging from hundreds to thousands of dollars. However, conferences often feature career expos and presentations by industry practitioners and researchers, which can offer valuable insights into the field.
Job Shadows
If you are still uncertain whether a healthcare career is a good fit, a great way to explore is through a job shadow. A job shadow provides the opportunity to gain valuable experience by observing someone working in a healthcare role you are interested in. For example, if you are considering nursing but want to understand how you would react to blood in a real-life situation (rather than just on TV), shadowing a nurse or CNA for a day can help clarify if this career is right for you. Similarly, shadowing in a dentist’s office, a laboratory, or even joining a ride-along with EMTs, search and rescue teams, or paramedics can provide firsthand insight into those professions.
Job shadowing allows you to observe the day-to-day responsibilities of a role, helping you determine if the job aligns with your interests and abilities. Some high schools offer assistance in setting up job shadowing opportunities, but outside of school, it may require individual initiative to arrange a shadowing experience, particularly in a hospital setting. Due to security protocols, space limitations, or availability of positions, volunteering might be an alternative if shadowing is not feasible.
A group of individuals in a specific industry or field working together to promote collaboration, networking, and professional development.
The process of making connections and building relationships.
An event where employers and job seekers convene to facilitate recruitment, providing an opportunity for companies to showcase job opportunities and for individuals to explore potential career options.
A career exploration activity in which an individual observes and learns about a specific job or profession by spending time with a professional in that field.