If you’re fortunate enough to find two equally qualified job candidates, some might say you’re lucky. But the truth is, having to choose between two great applicants can be stressful — not to mention difficult. In the end, you know you’ll wind up with the best of the best, but you’ll also need to let one of them down in the process. That’s why it’s important to take all means possible to make the best decision for your facility. Here’s what you can do.

How to choose the best candidate for your open healthcare position

Upon first pass, the two candidates may appear to be evenly matched, with the same skills, qualifications and experience. Your task is to uncover qualities that may set each candidate apart. To do this effectively, it can help to follow four key steps:

  1. Double check the job description. What are the two or three skills the candidate must possess to go above and beyond with this job? Sure, both candidates have impressive accomplishments on their resumes. But which candidate comes closer to the exact qualifications required for this position?
  2. Make things interactive. Conduct a second interview and allow each candidate to interact with the staff with whom they’ll be working directly. Does one candidate mesh better than the other? After this second interview, speak with the staff who met with each candidate and gauge their opinions. Was one candidate favored more than the other?
  3. Keep it informal. Make sure the second interview is more informal than the first. You just may notice qualities once a candidate’s guard is down that weren’t as apparent before. And you may gain a new perspective that will help you choose one candidate over the other.
  4. Assess career passion. Does one candidate seem to have more passion for their career than the other? You can get an idea of an applicant’s drive based on how much they do outside the office that may directly contribute to their growth inside the office. Which candidate reads industry journals, stays up-to-date on new medical advances, volunteers for related organizations, etc. A person who is passionate about their career truly believes it is their life’s work, and acts accordingly.

Still not sure?

In the end, you must choose the applicant who fits best with the culture of your practice and who will help you to deliver the very best patient care. Think long term: which of these two candidates do you see yourself and your team working with for the next 5–10 years, or longer? If you have to, go with your gut instinct: it’s most often telling you the right thing to do.

Looking to supplement your medical staff?

Look no further than KTE Services. We’ll work hand-in-hand with you to place the medical staff best-qualified for your open career opportunities. We specialize in providing highly qualified anesthesiologists, pain management specialists, CRNAs, nurse practitioners or physician assistants with positions across the country. To learn more about how KTE Services can help you supplement your medical staff, contact us today.

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