Searching for your next healthcare job? Whether you’re a nurse, therapist, tech, or physician, working with healthcare recruiters can open doors to exciting roles across the country. But here’s the thing: not every candidate knows how to make the most of the recruiter relationship—and that can mean missed opportunities.
At All Medical Personnel, our recruiters are here to advocate for you. But we’ve seen a few common patterns that hold great candidates back. So we’re pulling back the curtain to share the real talk—what recruiters wish more healthcare professionals understood before, during, and after the job search.
1. Your Resume Still Matters — A Lot
Yes, even in the age of quick applications and digital profiles, your resume can still make or break your chances. Recruiters often have just seconds to scan your qualifications, so clarity is key.
- Tailor it to the role. A one-size-fits-all resume won’t help you stand out—and may actually hurt your chances. Use keywords from the job description and emphasize your most relevant skills.
- Highlight your credentials up top. Certifications, licenses, specialties, and systems knowledge (EMR/EHR, for example) should be easy to find.
- Keep it clean. Skip the fancy fonts and complicated formatting. Simple, readable layouts perform best in applicant tracking systems (ATS), according to Forbes.
2. Soft Skills Are Hard Currency
Your clinical skills may get you in the door—but your soft skills help you thrive on the job. Communication, adaptability, empathy, and time management are highly valued by both recruiters and clients.
Healthcare teams rely on trust and collaboration. If you can demonstrate emotional intelligence and professionalism during the hiring process, you’ll be remembered for more than just your credentials.
3. Be Honest About Your Availability & Preferences
Being up-front with your recruiter about what you’re looking for—and what you’re not—sets everyone up for success.
- Are you open to travel?
- Can you work nights or weekends?
- Do you prefer short-term or long-term contracts?
- Are you looking for a specific patient population?
Having clear expectations makes it easier for recruiters to match you with jobs you’ll actually want. Last-minute changes or withheld preferences can derail even the best placements.
4. Recruiters Are Advocates — Not Magicians
We love helping healthcare professionals land great roles. But we’re not miracle workers—and we can’t help if we don’t have all the facts.
Some common misunderstandings:
- We can’t guarantee job placement without your active participation.
- If you ghost us or delay paperwork, it slows down your entire process.
- We want to help you find the right fit—not just any job.
When candidates treat recruiters as partners, not just job brokers, amazing things happen.
5. The Follow-Up Etiquette That Gets You Hired
Want to make a good impression after your interview or assignment? Keep the communication going.
- Send a quick thank-you after interviews—even via text.
- Check in weekly if you’re actively searching.
- Keep us updated on licensing or credentialing changes.
A quick note goes a long way. It shows you’re engaged, reliable, and respectful—all traits that hiring managers love.
For more insight into job search etiquette, check out this great resource from Business Insider.
6. It’s OK to Ask Questions
Seriously. Recruiters want you to ask questions. Whether you’re new to working with a staffing agency or a seasoned traveler, understanding expectations is important.
Some great questions to ask:
- What’s the typical timeline for placements?
- What can I expect from onboarding?
- How are housing or travel stipends handled?
- What happens if I don’t like the assignment?
When in doubt, ask. It shows you’re thoughtful—and helps us ensure a smoother experience for everyone involved.
Bonus Tips from the All Medical Team
“Be honest about your availability and preferences upfront—it saves time for both of us and gets you placed faster.” — Brenda, Recruiting (Nursing)
“I seek candidates who stand out in a competitive job market. With high competition, having an excellent resume, being well-prepared, and conducting thorough research can significantly benefit you in your interactions with recruiters.” — Casey, Recruiting (Allied & Lab)
“Be transparent about pending opportunities. This could help clients make decisions faster. Sometimes Providers don’t want to tell you what’s going on. If I know you’re pending another interview, I push to speed the process up.” — Rob, Recruiting (Locum Tenens)
Why Work with All Medical Personnel?
At All Medical, we don’t just fill roles—we build relationships. Our team of experienced recruiters takes the time to understand your goals, lifestyle, and expertise. Whether you’re exploring travel assignments, short-term contracts, or long-term roles, we’ll help you navigate your healthcare career with confidence.
Here’s what you can expect:
- Nationwide job access across locum tenens, nursing, therapy, and allied health.
- Personalized guidance from recruiters who know your industry.
- Full-service support including credentialing, licensing, housing coordination, and more.
Final Thoughts
Recruiters are your career allies—and a little clarity, consistency, and collaboration can go a long way. By knowing what your recruiter wishes you knew, you’ll stand out, speed up your search, and land jobs that actually work for you.
Ready to make your next career move? Explore healthcare jobs with All Medical Personnel!
