4 Mental Health Tips When Job Searching

Job hunting can be exhausting and dehumanizing. You work so hard on your resume, applying for work, preparing for the interview, all for it to vanish when you receive the rejection email, or worse, suddenly: you are even ghosted after everything! A recent trending article shared on LinkedIn compared job hunting to online dating, bruising egos. As more people continue to interview during this transitional season, here is a way to keep your mental health in check while looking for a job:

Embrace Perseverance     

Being persistent is the key to success with looking for your next role. You must keep going knowing that the best fit is waiting for you. Remind yourself of previous experiences when you needed to embrace persistence. It can be a motivator. You came out stronger in the end. Dopamine motivates people to work harder. However, balance a rhythm of work with a healthy mindset, but take a break with something you enjoy if you need to do so.   

Keep It Positive  

Most of the time, you cannot take the rejection personally. Easier said than done. If the experience was terrible, know that this doesn’t define your self-worth. Someone else was a better fit for the job, either skill or personality-wise. Mastering the ability to overcome obstacles allows you to work through challenges more manageable.   

Reassess Your Goals    

Double-check the jobs you applied for in the past. Were you the best fit? Reflect on the positions where you went farther in the interview process. How did it go? Could you have done something differently? You might not be a “square peg, square hole” fit for the jobs you interviewed for. People can learn lessons from those experiences. You could be on the wrong path and need to get back on track with what you want and your values. Goals can change, too.      

Tap Into Your Network   

Not only is relying on your network a fantastic opportunity to find your next job, but it is also even better to lean on close friends and family to vent and seek emotional support. Reaching out for advice both benefits you psychologically and professionally. This is a way to strategize a plan and know that people who care about you have your back. We need individuals rooting for us during the challenges of life. 

Since 1988, WSi’s recruiters have been transparent and honest with candidates looking for other work opportunities. If you are interested in finding your following healthcare positions, get in touch with us today!

Top 6 Things to Consider When Asking for a Raise

With wages increasing across many industries in 2021, negotiating a raise is a skill to master to advance your career. People should navigate the challenges asking for a raise. Keep these things in mind when considering how to approach a potentially sensitive subject of asking for a wage increase:

When do you ask for a raise?  

You want to consider asking for a pay increase for the following reasons:

• A new job

• Your current role

• Negotiating a promotion at work

• Transitioning between careers

Life transitions happen, and a raise can help you navigate financial changes.  

Reflect on your achievements  

Process the end of the year and your contributions to the organization. Did you go beyond your job duties this year? Did you meet your goals? Have you even helped other team members achieve their goals or complete a big project that helped your employer? Know your worth and be confident and assertive but not arrogant.   

Analyze medium salary data   

Salaries are not always a “one size” fits all geographically. The cost of living varies by region, state, and local market. Wages should reflect this reality. Look into expected salary ranges for your industry and your market. You could be below salary, and an adjustment would be needed.

Anticipate a target range  

After you parse the data and look over your job description: 

• Take a few things into consideration. 

• Figure out what would be fair for you and the employer. 

• Always be reasonable. 

Anywhere between a 3–5% pay increase would be typical, but it could be higher depending on your circumstance or industry.  

Consider the organization’s finances.  

You may not want to do this if it is a down year. If this is the case, it might not be a time to ask for a raise. Although, if things seem healthy, there is nothing wrong with asking for a pay increase. Do not be emotional nor expect to present your current salary as a problem.  

Consult your friends or family  

It is always good to lean into your network and inner circle to figure out how to proceed. A trustworthy friend or family member can help you face challenges and give you needed advice. Try not to take negative feedback too personally.

Since 1988, WSi has been an expert in staffing healthcare professionals. If you want to find an ideal rate for your work, please get in touch with us today.   

What to Know to Pivot to the Healthcare Industry for 2022

The healthcare industry will grow despite people leaving the profession due to burnout. Now is the opportunity for those who have considered a new and stable career in healthcare. The medical field needs workers and hiring trends will accelerate well after the Coronavirus pandemic is under control. Managing expectations is key to what you can do. Here are some things to keep in mind:    

Plan for Certifications  

Experience may not be required, but you might have to earn a certification for some roles. Something like a nursing License or CPR certification is required depending on the position. It can take anything from a few months to a few years to get the necessary qualifications, from a certificate to a degree. Being up to date on your skills and seeking additional training puts some candidates at an advantage.  

Highlight Transferable Skills   

Transferable skills can be limiting in this industry since expertise is a requirement for quite a few healthcare roles. However, customer service or front desk office jobs require managing different tasks. Other soft skills are decision making, adaptability, multitasking, ethical judgment, collaboration, and conflict management.   

Expect Entry-Level Work  

Rarely can someone outside of the profession waltz in on their first day to work in a mid-level role. You cannot manage a team if you have too little health care experience. Manage expectations that you will have to complete basic tasks if you a new to the industry. You might even need to volunteer to see if you like the setting and know this is what you want to do as well.   

Be a People Person  

Talent needs to be at its best from a character standpoint as well. Empathy and compassion will carry you extremely far in healthcare. The capacity to know the individual experience of the patient without having a relationship creates an essential conversational skill for a healthcare worker.   

An Openness to Learn  

There is a steep learning curve in the hectic medical field where patient care is a top priority. Do not react disproportionately to a stressful situation. Reflect and form new habits. Learning every day is vital for navigating the difficulties of healthcare.  

As a health care staffing agency since 1988, WSi has experience with selecting the best candidates in the various spectrums of healthcare positions from admin to the experts. Speak to one of our recruiters today. 

Top Four Expectations for Managing a Multigenerational Team

Company culture is made by either two things: personalities cooperating or personalities clashing. A factor with this can be generational differences. As Baby Boomers start to retire while GenZ launches their careers, we are in one of the most significant transitional periods the American workforce has ever seen. Throw in a new normal of remote/hybrid work then several challenges will arise. Here is what to anticipate with managing a multigenerational team:

Embrace All of the Benefits    

There are benefits to having different generations on a team. They include sharing multiple perspectives, offering diverse ways to solve problems, an opportunity for mentorship, and bridging relationships among various people. These sorts of environments foster growth and can help everyone involved. Generations who have worked longer have learned one way and are set in their habits. Younger generations who have worked in a shorter amount of time are learning and questioning processes. Both are okay and can learn from each other.   

Overcome Negative Stereotypes   

People are not monolithic and have individual experiences that shape their worldview. No, Boomers are not clumsy with technology, and Millennials are not distracted by their phones. Stereotypes dehumanize co-workers, and we do not need pettiness to distract from completing multiple tasks and team functionality. Saying things like “you’re not like the others” is not helpful even if well-intentioned. This is a passive-aggressive compliment and can cause conflict. Likewise, work around those issues if they become problems. Offer grace to those who need it and try to overcome struggles.    

Understand Communication Differences     

Communication can be the biggest hurdle of multigenerational teams. Millennials and GenZ are more comfortable using digital devices when older generations might like using the phone or in person. Most senior office workers were likely to return to the office because working in a familiar environment was habitual.  GenX might be the one generation who is versatile enough to use all the mediums where they see fit. Younger generations desire feedback and affirmation. Baby boomers will maintain eye contact as GenZ tends to stray away. It is ideal for older generations to understand trends but not to pander.    

Anticipate Conflicting Values   

Different generations lived through various parts of history and societal changes. A variety of diverse ages like Millennials and GenZ care about ethics more than profits. They are more compassionate with DE&I issues because they are a diverse generation or have friends who are. Baby Boomers are goal-oriented and have worked through a steady timeline of economic growth, GenX can be driven for success, Millennials want boundaries, and GenZ values honesty and authenticity. Older generations should strive to make a meaningful connection with Millennials because they spend at least 40 hours a week (or about one and a half days) in the office or work. They want to see the value in their contributions.     

Managing a multigenerational team will be challenging for organizations to maintain peace and productivity. WSi keeps these issues in mind while finding the best candidate fit for the health care profession. Chat with us if you are interested in learning more.

The Four Recruiting Trends We Expect to Stay for 2022

The yearning to “return to normal” will not look the same everywhere. This fact is accurate with recruiting and procurement proceedings. The height of the pandemic was a season when people had to adapt and be flexible. Organizations are assessing what worked and what didn’t. When pandemic era practices became more efficient, organizations should be open-minded enough to change how they implement processes. Here are some hiring trends that we expect will be more long term:

Video conferencing is the norm...   

In-person interviewing will change at least with an initial screening process and second-round interviews. Remote interviewing saves time and money with traveling for candidates as well as employees. If you have ever been to an online conference, you can watch sessions back-to-back instead of running around a convention hall. For employers, accessing more information by re-playing the interview helps to consider positive and negative moments. Doing so highlights the personality over the resume.   

But, be mindful of how to use it   

Avoid leaning too heavily on video, a tool that could be misused. Automation may be convenient for you, but being inauthentic comes at a human cost. Video is ideal for recording dialogue, but don’t make a candidate record their answers for you. It makes candidates anxious, and many don’t want to hear the voice which increases insecurity. You need candidates to remain confident during their job search as well. This is wooden and inauthentic and tells the candidate they won’t be treated like a human if it starts this way. More meaningful connections with candidates are something we will maintain. 

Focus on Candidate Needs   

Employers have their goals and vision, but organizations must cater to the talent especially now more than ever. Companies need people and must meet them where they are. It is a candidate market right now and not ideal for employers. Keep this in mind with building your teams and implementing company culture. Consider the flexibility of a work/life balance, competitive wages, unique benefits, special social events, and other ways to show that you care.  

Embracing Diversity and Inclusion   

Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI) is a topic that is not going away. More than a trendy concept, DEI provides confidence to all employees to show up each day without hesitation of being themselves. These policies promote increased commitment, productivity, and collaboration that indirectly helps increase revenue and improve retention. Being accessible to all employees despite age, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, religion, or marital status is vital.   

Hiring Per Project   

Project-based work is an accelerating trend. Demand can ebb and flow, and it will likely be the norm moving forward. Hiring on a temporary or project basis is an increasing trend. This depends on the boom or bust needs of various industries. Healthcare is more stable than most industries, but pandemic-related emergencies have increased demand as well.   

Since WSi has recruited talent starting in 1988, WSi has had the experience to place top talent at recognizable institutions. We consider these upcoming trends with our thorough hiring process. If you are looking for your next position reach out for your staffing needs.

Why We Celebrate Respiratory Therapists Week

Everyone breathes, and we take it for granted daily. With Respiratory Care Week underway, now is the time to consider hiring respiratory therapists for your hospital or medical facility. There is a significant need for them for people with various breathing issues due to chronic conditions like asthma and Covid complications. Here is why respiratory care is so critical and what we look for is the best candidate:

Why Respiratory Care Week?   

The American Association for Respiratory Care (AARC) sponsors Respiratory Care Week every year to celebrate the nurses, doctors, and respiratory therapists who make the lives of patients better who struggle with various breathing issues. The organization this week displays data and facts about breathing and how to improve people's lives.     

Expertise in Breathing   

We ask questions about the times they were on the job and what they learned during specific circumstances. There are many examples from discovering lung, breathing complications, offering treatment suggestions, examining a patient's chest physical exams, conferring with physicians, analyzing breath, tissue, and blood specimens, overseeing ventilators, and reacting to critical alarms for care.   

Patient First Approach   

WSi seeks candidates with a patient-first approach. How do they talk to people? Teaching patients and families about lung disease and other complications are essential. After looking over data, have they adapted to the latest information and considered all treatment options. Respiratory therapy is implemented in all health care venues including but not limited to: What decisions did they make and why regarding patient care?   

Are They the Best Fit?   

With 75% of respiratory therapists employed at hospitals, we know most client needs are related to that specific field. Do the individuals we are considering have the stamina to work in a hospital and juggle multiple needs of the client?   

Since WSi has been working in the healthcare staffing space since 1988, you can trust a hard-working agency to locate the best respiratory specialists in Colorado. To speak with an account manager, click here.

The Vital Importance of Medical Assistants

National Medical Assistants Week is this week (October 18 to 21) and today is National Medical Assistant Day. Now is a time to reflect on the Medical Assistants' contributions to the healthcare industry. There is a tremendous need for medical assistants and WSi strives to look for the best ones who will drive success at your organization. Here is what we consider:

The Needed Skills    

Medical assistants are on the frontlines reporting detailed facts. Medical knowledge is necessary to have the required certifications. Also, we look for someone detail-oriented and committed to precision for the person’s needs while recording patient information. Someone who can examine medical histories, measure, and record vital signs and understand basic information about current and previous conditions are things we look for.   

Can They Perform?  

We ask questions about the times they were on the job a wide variety of examples from preparing patients for exams, assisting the physician during procedures, collecting lab specimens, implementing necessary lab examinations, educating patients about medications and nutrition. What decisions did they make and why regarding organizational needs and patient care?  

The Best Perception  

Medical Assistants are the first people to see the patient and assess their medical needs. Do we want a specific candidate to be that individual to represent our clients? This is something we consider. Having the values of helping those in need, being empathetic, and being flexible are the best characteristics of a candidate. Describe treatment options to patients and answer their concerns.   

Be Persistent    

Medical organizations and hospitals are active places where people are on the go seeing various sick patients. What makes an individual be able to know when to move forward and be motivated during stressful times? We are looking for punctual and competent individuals who are ready from day one to perform to the best of their ability.   

At WSi, our recruiting specialists can manage the interview process for your organization. Since 1988, we have had the necessary experience to recognize top-quality medical assistants and other healthcare professionals. We are looking for those who have the technical knowledge and interpersonal skills required to improve patient well-being and allow our clients to succeed. Speak to an account manager today if you want to join us.

Why Healthcare Professionals Should Work with WSi

Busy healthcare professionals are bombarded with phone calls, emails, and text messages about new opportunities for career advancement. How do you know which recruiter to follow up with when you look for your next career move? Candidates can look to us for their next role for the following reasons:

We Establish Trust    

It is challenging to know whom to trust, especially in modern times. We are direct and honest but compassionate and professional to all our candidates. You can always be open to asking us questions. One of the best things a recruiter can do is listen to the candidate's needs, and that is what we do here at WSi Healthcare.  

Our Client Portfolio    

WSi works with a wide variety of medical and healthcare organizations from hospitals, dental offices, and non-profits. Candidates have several options to choose from among the Denver and Colorado Springs metro areas. Also, we staff for smaller towns and rural communities along with the front range and in the high country.     

Our Proven Results     

We strive to find rockstars since a job is more than just showing up to work. We help you highlight your talents to prove your value. During the interview process, mention those results you delivered to the organizations you worked for. Providing tangible examples that set you apart from the other candidates is vital.     

We offer The Best Experience  

Healthcare professionals can achieve their goals by collaborating with us. WSi provides the necessary experience to advance your career. From the wide variety of organizations we staff, you can have numerous options if you want to go in the direction of a hospital, small office, or non-profit.   

We have Longevity   

WSi values stability with potential candidates and has been placing people in roles since 1988. We have longevity and clout in the staffing industry and have a long history of successful placements of all healthcare professionals across multiple positions.   

Check Our References    

Colorado medical professionals are pleased to work with us. WSi has earned rave reviews from candidates from Clearly Rated, a best-of staffing survey service, for the past few years. Candidates who work with us complete a thorough background check and drug screen.   

Candidate onboarding at times can be a lengthy process. However, it is the work we do to place the best people in the healthcare industry. If you are looking for your next role, contact us today.