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In our last blog we gave you an insight into how to create and format the perfect CV to make you stand out from the crowd when applying to roles.

(If you missed out on this blog, you can read it by clicking here)

Finding your first role in the UK can be a challenging part of the process, as you will be presented with many jobs, as well as agencies who will want to contact you and assist you with this - therefore, it may be hard to know who or what to go with.

In this blog we will give you information on the key steps you need to take to ensure that you are covering all bases and not missing any opportunities; but to also prevent as much stress and confusion as possible.

The first step you will need to take is…

1. Understand what you want

Within each specialty you will most likely have special interests that you will want to pursue.

Therefore, it is very important that when you are looking at job descriptions, you thoroughly read through what skills and interests they need and if it matches.

2. Be flexible

Due to some specialities being highly competitive it may mean that it is not possible for your first job to be exactly what you want.

Be flexible and have an open mind to general roles and even stepping back a grade in your field in the first instance to gain experience.

The most important thing for you in your first job to be in a supportive environment, which can then lead to a more specialised post in the future.

3. Reach out to your friends and network

It will be useful for you to take the time to reach out to friends or individuals you know who have, or who are currently working within the NHS.

Not only will this be great first-hand information for you, from those who have experience and knowledge in the field, but it could also be an opportunity for them to recommend you to certain roles or vacancies that they know about.

4. Choosing the correct recruitment agency

Most international Doctors prefer to use an agency for their first role, due to the knowledge and support provided throughout the recruitment and relocation process.

You will most likely be contacted by several agencies throughout your job search, therefore how can you be sure to choose the right one?

Firstly, make sure that you have spoken with a recruiter on the phone.

This is a great way for you to get a feel for the agency, but to also be clear with them about what you are looking for and to get them to completely understand your needs.

Secondly, ask them questions.

The best recruiters will be able to confidently answer them, as well as give you extra information on what it is that you want to do, where you want to go, the jobs currently available in the market and any potential challenges you may face.

Through providing you with the above information, it should give you a clear understanding of the current marketplace in your chosen field, as well as a picture of your journey ahead.

Lastly, after speaking with them on the phone, take the time to look at their company website and social channels (if you have them), as this can give you a clear indication of the efficiency of the agency and what they will be able to offer you.

By doing this it is a great way to see if you could gain trust in them and their abilities to guide and support you.

5. Organise job applications

If you are using multiple agencies (we would recommend not using more than two), you should make it clear to each of them that they must contact you to let you know where they are sending your CV, as you can then make sure not to duplicate your efforts, which would be counterproductive.

Alternatively, if you are applying through your friends, or a trust directly, again make sure to make a note of the applications, so that you are clear and confident on where your CV is going, and by what means it got there.

6. Keep going and have faith

Applying for jobs is not a quick process - it will take time, and you may have setbacks, but ultimately every no leads to a yes.

The best thing that you can do is to stay patient, get regular updates from agencies and feedback from unsuccessful applications when possible.

Through doing so you will be better prepared for future job applications by tailoring your CV or having the knowledge of how to answer questions better in other interviews.

This also gives you an opportunity to realign your expectations as well.

If you would like to find out some more information or require some help, please do not hesitate to contact our Medical team at info@kaizenrecruitment.co.uk.