Another potential physical therapist job applicant – gone in 60 seconds! It’s actually closer to 49.7 seconds to be precise; that’s how long the average job seeker scans a job posting before deciding whether or not to apply. In this short but crucial window, the top areas they are looking at according to LinkedIn include: compensation, qualifications, and job details. If these match what they are looking for, they will likely spend more time reviewing the posting and apply.
When hiring at your practice, nailing the job listing can quite literally make the difference between attracting your ideal hire and getting scrolled past, no matter how good life at your clinic might be. If you’re wondering where to start with creating a job posting that stops would-be applicants in their tracks, then look no further and check out the tips below!
Get noticed
A clear and specific job title combined with a quality introduction describing the job is essential. Not only does this ensure that your posting pops up when someone searches for their target role on their favorite job board, but an attention-grabbing introduction will keep them reading. Avoid using quirky or funny job titles such as “Exercise and Manual Therapy Guru.” Instead focus on the exact title you’re hiring for (i.e. Physical Therapist, Orthopedic Physical Therapist, Physical Therapy Assistant, etc.).
For the overall posting, make sure the formatting is clear, readable, and not too long-winded. Keep it brief but include all relevant information. According to recent data from Textio, job posts written with generic third-person statements such as “the ideal candidate” are less effective – it is recommended to use we/you statements as it makes the reader feel more engaged. In addition, job posts that use more “we” based statements rather than “you” are currently filling faster.
Include key job details
Aside from the typical duties inherent to the physical therapy profession (i.e. independently evaluates and treats patients), try to add in more details that describe some aspect of the job that is important to or unique to your clinic. Consider whether you need someone with more specific experience such as neurological, pelvic floor, or sports rehabilitation and be sure to add that as well.
Additional details to include are the clinic location, hours, and whether it is part-time or full-time. And be sure to hit the following high points that applicants are scanning for:
- Salary
- Benefits
- Paid time off
- Continuing education stipend (if any)
- Student loan reimbursement (if any)
- Any other benefits that make your clinic stand out
Match the clinic’s tone
This is a great time to let your clinic’s personality and culture shine through. You can do this throughout the overall posting with some small dashes of humor or added enthusiasm. That said, maintaining professional language that strikes a good balance between formal and casual can be tricky – If you’re worried that you’re not hitting the right balance, err on the side of more professional-sounding language to avoid coming across too chummy.
If space allows, you should also consider a brief “About Us” section. Just make sure to include details your ideal candidates will appreciate. This may include your clinic’s philosophy on treating patients, passion for learning new skills, application of emerging physical therapy research, or even the clinic’s proximity to recreation outside of work (i.e. hiking trails, skiing, parks, or museums). Finally, don’t forget to keep your social media pages updated so that all of this presents your business the way you want it presented.
Make it easy to apply
Last, but certainly not least, clearly indicate how to apply for the position and make it convenient. Can they click a link to apply? Do they need to go to your website? Or can they send an email and cover letter directly? Whatever method you select, just consider the level of difficulty and time. And make sure your hiring team and/or front office staff are set up to receive all of the applications and won’t miss out on any candidates that come through – the last thing you want is to miss your dream candidate’s resume and leave them thinking you weren’t interested!
Sample job listing
If your head is spinning and you’re wondering where to even begin with all this information, check out the sample posting below to help you get started!
Title: Physical Therapist
Introduction:
We are looking for our next physical therapist to join our growing team! At X Physical Therapy Clinic we are anything but boring. If you’re looking for great hours, a generous compensation package, and potential for leadership within our regional network of clinics, we would love to meet you!
Job description/responsibilities:
- You will independently assess and treat patients through effective evidence-based interventions with one-on-one follow-up sessions.
- Document and update patient treatment plans, progress, goals as needed.
- You have experience with a variety of patients, but thrive with a sports/active population.
- Manual therapy experience is a plus, but we support a path to certification!
- Develop a rewarding relationship with patients that fosters a team approach to achieving their treatment outcomes.
The perks:
In addition to competitive compensation aligned with our local market ($80,000 – $100,000 per year DOE) you can count on the following additional benefits:
- Medical/Dental/Vision insurance options
- 401k w/company match
- 20 days of PTO
- Up to $1,500 for continuing education
- Reimbursement of up to $200 of professional dues
About us:
We are a close group of therapists who love what we do: helping patients get better and return to activities they love! We enjoy mentoring new grads as well as continuous learning through education courses and from each other.
Any additional details and how to apply:
This full-time position is located in Anytown, US. Please send your resume and cover letter to hiring@genericPT.com.
We hope this template can give your hiring team a nice starting point for the next search! If you still need more ideas, Indeed has a few templates with additional wording options. Just don’t forget to make it sound like your clinic!
Conclusion
Hiring physical therapists is tough out there right now, but taking the time to do these small steps right will play a huge role in setting you apart and making an impression with the right people. Creating effective job listings can feel daunting at first. But by using the tips above, you will be well on your way to finding your next physical therapist for your clinic.
About the author:
Chelsea Krotser is an outpatient orthopedic physical therapist and freelance writer. Drawing on her experience as a PT as well as her former life as an accountant, she is dedicated to providing an insightful clinical and business perspective. She loves writing about all things related to physical therapy. You can find her on Instagram @chelseakrotser.
