Insights and Strategies for Recruiting Executives in Small and Rural Hosptials
By Jeff Souza, BSN, Chief Executive Officer, Leaders for Today
This is the final of seven posts from Leaders For Today’s latest white paper.
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In general, the use of external recruiters – for either permanent placements or interims – is seen as an important part of the mix. In a small institution, the loss of a key player can have a devastating impact, since there are typically fewer people available to backfill (particularly for positions that require specialized or mission critical skills). As Woodin makes clear, “You could lose a key specialist and that could cost you millions of dollars in revenue until that position is filled.”
In particular, the use of interims is on the rise, as small and rural hospitals have slowly come to appreciate the benefits this tactic provides. One such benefit is that of “taking the pressure off,” while the search for an appropriate permanent candidate can be conducted. Without such a person in place, the temptation is great to simply fill the hole, a situation which can ultimately prove frustrating for all involved.
Interims also seem particularly well-suited to jumping into the cohesive team environment of most small institutions. As Casper observes, “They tend to be people who are go-getters. They hit the ground running and are usually very outgoing in nature.”
Furthermore, Casper recommends that when using interims, it’s important to set clear expectations with staff. “When I introduce them, I frame it as ‘we are not on hold; we’re moving ahead.’ I want it to be clear they are in charge – not just here to sign time cards and hand out checks.”
In Summary
Hiring in small and rural hospitals is clearly not for the faint of heart. Still, neither is it the impossible task it’s so often described to be. Honest communication, a commitment to the whole person and family, and patience go a long way towards staffing success.
As Tana Casper observes, “Transparency is ultimately the best thing you can do. Be clear about the job, the situation, the region, the town…all of those things from lifestyle to professional. Otherwise you’re just wasting everyone’s time and money.
Many of the most successful small and rural hospitals, in fact, use their unique surroundings and remote locations to their advantage in bringing aboard qualified medical staff at all levels.
About Jeff Souza, BSN
Jeff Souza brings to Leaders For Today a 28-year track record of leadership with successful start-ups. His experience covers both healthcare and life sciences, across roles that include medical, clinical, nursing, laboratory science, human resources/staffing and consulting.
Jeff has a Bachelor of Science in Nursing, as well as training in executive management and quality service. In addition, he is a Panel Member at the Massachusetts General Hospital Institute and Public Relations Chair for the New England Chapter of the Association for Clinical Research Professionals.
About Leaders For Today
Leaders For Today is a leader in healthcare interim & permanent executive management. The Company works with top hospitals and healthcare institutions across the country to find, place, and support healthcare executives and directors. These organizations hire interim & permanent executives from Leaders For Today to provide leadership during times of transition, help improve current operations, deliver superior expertise, and mentor junior staff.
