Finding the best EMS workers is always challenging, and something that administrators must do carefully to thrive. The intense stress and high-pressure environment mean that not everyone is suited to the job. Add to that the physical, mental, and emotional demands, and it becomes painfully apparent why filling EMS positions is so tricky.
Admittedly, the prospect of working such a job isn’t as appealing as it could be for new workers. Apart from the abovementioned issues, there are fewer benefits and smaller salaries than in other professions. Even so, working in EMS can be rewarding and fulfilling for the right candidate.
For EMS organizations, the question is how to find the best EMS workers. How does one attract qualified and competent personnel and entice them to remain in their jobs for the long term?
The Benefits of a Talent Acquisition System
One solution that has proven effective in many communities is implementing a talent acquisition system. It can streamline hiring EMS staff and reduce the time it takes to onboard.
Consequently, medical facilities can fill positions with suitable candidates much sooner than it typically takes.
Medical agencies can customize their talent acquisition systems to conform to an organization’s existing hiring process closely.
Incorporating innovative strategies further speeds up and simplifies the onboarding of new workers. Applying the best industry practices for recruiting and hiring personnel can circumvent some of the staffing challenges inherent in the EMS profession.
Casting a Wide Net
One of the main obstacles agencies encounter early on is the lack of qualified candidates. Some of the most successful organizations address this issue by casting a wide net.
One particularly effective strategy involved creating and posting job openings to multiple employment boards simultaneously. Agencies can post listings to hundreds and even thousands of job boards instantly.
Using software specially designed for job posting enables hiring firms to expand their reach. This advantage is crucial in an increasingly crowded and competitive market. By optimizing postings and establishing links with social media channels, agencies with open positions have a better chance of attracting qualified candidates.
Coursing Qualified Candidates
Once the agency has attracted a sizable number of qualified prospects, coursing them through the talent pipeline begins. It usually involves an online qualification screening stage, narrowing the pool to those meeting the minimum requirements. Consequently, those without the requisite experience or education falter early, freeing up company resources for processing qualified candidates.
The next stage is typically a behavior-based assessment process. It should connect applicants with EMS jobs that closely conform to their education and experience. Weighing personality, values, motivation, and other characteristics help determine the candidates’ feasibility for specific sectors in the EMS industry.
Improving the Interview Process
Enhancing the interview process for better results is integral to successful hiring. Studies show that SMS is more likely to garner replies than emails. Some of the most successful organizations also utilize text messaging to engage with prospective applicants and set up interviews. In most cases, this approach considerably reduces “no shows” and shortens the initial contact and hire time.
A More Efficient Onboarding Process
The hiring process doesn’t end when a qualified candidate receives an offer. The hiring organization will also have to conduct a background check. Then, they must ensure that successful applicants enter the company’s payroll system.
Conclusion
Of course, many ways exist to attract and hire qualified EMS personnel. The above strategies merely serve as a general blueprint for streamlining the hiring and onboarding process. In any case, having an efficient system should make it easier to find suitable candidates and fill crucial positions more quickly.
About Provident Insurance Programs
With roots dating back to 1902, Provident Insurance Programs is a program administrator that serves paid and volunteer firefighters in addition to emergency medical responders with numerous custom-tailored insurance programs. We’ve also extended our expertise and experience to offer benefit plans and coverages to participant groups as well as Transportation Benefits. We are committed to continuing to provide superior customer service, and would be happy to speak with you to provide further information. Contact us or give us a call today at (855) 201-8880 to speak with one of our representatives.