CAREER ADVICE SERIES:
Locking it Down: Securing Your Ideal First Job
By Jennifer A. Kim and Karen Hirsch
After putting in so many
years of studying, then
blood, sweat and tears into
residency and fellowship,
it’s finally time to apply
for a job! But, having
only experienced life
transitions in applications
and matches, the job
search process is daunting.
Despite having extensive
training, the logistics and “business” of job hunting can feel
mysterious. To help alleviate those anxieties, Dr. Karen Hirsch,
medical director of neurocritiacal care at Stanford, shares her
advice. (Note: The interview has been paraphrased for brevity.)
How should applicants approach the job search?
There are some initial major decision points, including whether
you want academic or private, if you have geographic limitations
or visa/immigration issues. The NCS website is a good place to
start and most positions are posted there, but some are by word of
mouth. There are also headhunters who can help. And, no matter
what, definitely utilize the network. You know a lot of people in
neurocritical care, and they know a lot of people, so let them/us
help you!
How are most job selection processes conducted?
First, places identify a need, such as clinical staffing for a new
program, growing a research infrastructure or expanding to meet
Joint Commission requirements. In academics, the division or
department will then work with a finance person to figure out
a business plan that includes the cost of the hire (e.g., salary,
Jennifer A. Kim Karen Hirsch
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