By Robyn Lee
Demand for Occupational Therapists is growing across the healthcare sector. Recent data from the Occupational Therapy Board of Australia shows the number of practicing OTs has increased by almost 60% over the last seven years, driven in part by the rollout of the NDIS.
This means graduates looking for their first role are being met with more job prospects than ever before. While this is an exciting place to be, it can also be daunting. Many graduates admit to feeling a little overwhelmed about navigating the jobs market and knowing where to turn as they look to secure that first position that will kickstart their career.
I spoke with a number of graduating OTs at a recent industry event and one thing was clear. They would appreciate any guidance on how to find the right role and understand the recruitment process.
Paige whom I met recently put it perfectly when we spoke about her plans as she prepares to graduate with an Occupational Therapy degree at UQ in November.
“As I look towards this exciting next chapter of my life, and my upcoming job search, I certainly have a few questions. Crossing my mind are things like how do I apply for jobs and what do companies require from me? How can I make sure I am set up to connect with potential future employers so they know my name and what I can offer? I also want to know more about the companies I might look to work for. What are their values and how are their workplaces set up?"
Paige’s questions aren’t unusual. In fact, they reflect some of the most common questions we get here at Thrive when helping graduates navigate the recruitment market. Many graduating OTs don’t realise they can tap into our network and resources to make the job search process much easier.
Here are just a few advantages of connecting with a recruitment company that specialises in allied health:
· Industry knowledge: we know what each employer is looking for and can provide you with the inside information to put your best foot forward and get noticed
· Access to a wide network: we have strong relationships across the industry and give you access to the best jobs, often before they are advertised
· One point of contact: we centralise the process and manage job applications for you. This saves you time dealing with multiple companies, HR teams and constantly adapting your CV for different positions
· Contract negotiations: negotiating salary and benefits can be nerve racking, especially the first few times. We do the negotiations for you, taking the pressures off and ensuring you get the best package
· Experience: who are the best companies to work for and who should you avoid? We know the answers thanks to our years of experience. We only put you in front of the top employers who have a strong history of investing in their OTs and supporting new graduates
· We care: we are in this with you for the long haul. Here to support you in any way we can, especially in those first few months when the experience can be overwhelming
· It’s FREE: that’s right, as a job seeker there is no cost to you to work with us. Our role is to find the best candidates in the market and match them with the best positions.
Engaging with a specialist recruitment agency is one of the easiest ways to cut through the noise in this crowded market and find your ideal first job.
Paige agrees, saying: “I believe that a recruitment agency can help me answer some of the looming questions that I have in regard to my next chapter and can help me write my next story.”
I’d love to connect and chat if you are starting your recruitment journey, or know someone great who is.
