Applying for a Pain Management Job? 7 Things That Will Set You Apart

Pain management is a growing field, and many anesthesiologists, certified registered nurse anesthetists (CRNAs) and other medical professionals are looking to pain management practices to start or continue their careers.  If you’re looking for a pain management position, here are seven ways to set yourself apart from the crowd:

1. Focus on your accomplishments. In your application materials, skip the conventional lists of job duties in favor of two or three concrete accomplishments you achieved in each job you’ve held. For instance, instead of simply listing “patient care,” describe how many patients you were responsible for each week or month.  If you’ve received glowing praise or reviews, mention it.
2. Know what the practice’s goals are. Every pain management practice chooses to prioritize different things. What counts as “outstanding” patient care at the practice to which you are applying?  Research and talk to your recruiter to find out, and demonstrate how your work pursues the same goal.
3. There is no “I” in “team”…. Pain management practices depend on teamwork to provide effective and efficient patient care. Be sure to stress your ability to work as part of a larger care team.  This might mean mentioning a collaborative project on your resume, or describing a time you put the team’s needs above your own during an interview.
4. …but you can’t spell “team” without “me.” Teamwork is key, but a team is only as strong as its weakest member. Demonstrate that you not only know how to collaborate, but that you can apply your strengths to improve how a team functions.
5. Use LinkedIn for the things that don’t fit on your resume. Narrowing your resume down to a single page can be tough. Luckily, LinkedIn allows you to expand by listing your entire work history.  Take advantage of this tool by paring your resume down to the most relevant and recent work for this employer, and include the link to your LinkedIn profile.
6. Follow up promptly. After a telephone or in-person interview, follow up with a thank-you note the same day. If you’re asked for additional information, send it immediately. You’ll demonstrate your interest in the job, keep yourself in the running, and show you’re responsive when people ask for help – an important trait for those who provide pain management care.
7. Show your enthusiasm. It is important to be professional in an interview – but this isn’t the same thing as being emotionless, which can send the impression you don’t particularly care about the job. Instead, if you’re excited about working for this practice and passionate about what you do, show it!  Enthusiasm is often the “deciding factor” for interviewers who must choose between two qualified candidates.

At KTE Services, we connect anesthesiologists, CRNAs, and other pain management professionals with surgery, hospital and pain management practices throughout the United States. Contact us today to learn more about our pain management employment opportunities.