You’ve started your job search. You’ve written your cover letter, updated your resume, and started combing through behavioral and mental health listings. There are thousands of acceptable open positions, but you’re looking for the right position. While finding the ideal job, employer, and professional environment can take some time and effort, the work done now during your job search is worthy work - to find a team you connect with, an employer you respect, and a job you love and that will give you the opportunity to make a difference in peoples' lives.
Here are some tips to help you find your right job:
- Think first about your previous jobs. What worked well for you in those roles? What would you change about those experiences if you could? What excited you most about these positions? Did you dread starting your day at any of those past jobs? Did you enjoy working with a team or working independently? The answers to these questions should help you start to filter and curate your job search.
- While a potential position may not meet all your criteria, think about what needs are most important to you. Start prioritizing the criteria of what you want to see in your new role. This could be your job wish list of what matters to you most.
- Research potential employers. Look up mental health organizations, clinics, and hospitals in your area to find potential job opportunities and then start looking at those organization’s websites, LinkedIn or Facebook pages, and read employee reviews. This information can often provide a helpful idea of what others who work with or who have worked with that employer think about their job experiences. Make a note of those employers who are doing work that you’re passionate about or that seem to cultivate a culture that feels like a place you could thrive.
- Network with professionals in the field. Reach out to mental health professionals and attend networking events to learn more about what’s available in your area.
- If you have the time, consider volunteering or interning first. Volunteering or interning is a great way to gain experience and learn about the organization. It also offers the chance to make connections and introduce yourself to individuals who may be hiring later.
- Seek out and filter job postings. Look for job postings in mental health journals, websites, and dedicated behavioral and mental health job boards.
Finding the right mental health job isn’t easy, but the right job could be the start of work and relationships that you will be part of for years. Keep an open mind, be patient, and don't be afraid to ask questions and try new things until you find the right fit.