Informal Visits
Hiring managers consistently say that they are impressed by candidates who approach them before applying for a job.
Arranging an informal visit can demonstrate enthusiasm and initiative, helping you stand out against other candidates. It's also an invaluable way of assessing whether or not the job or workplace would be a good fit for you.
Informal visits
The practice of arranging informal visits is actually very common within the healthcare industry, with the majority of employers keen to accommodate.
It's a fantastic way to gain insight into a new workplace environment and assess whether you think that environment would be right for you. It's also another opportunity to make new contacts, ask questions, demonstrate enthusiasm and make a good impression.
How to arrange an informal visit
If you've seen a vacancy you're interested in, there will usually be contact details for the relevant manager(s) and instructions on how to get in touch. Alternatively you could contact the recruitment and development team.
If you feel unsure about what to say or how to introduce yourself, have a look at the following ideas:
- I wanted to ask about possibly arranging an informal visit. I've been keen on applying to work for your organisation for some time, and it would be great to learn more about how the team works."
- I wanted to ask if it would be possible to arrange an informal visit to [insert ward/unit]? I鈥檇 love to learn more about the role, team, culture, and patient demographics before writing my application."
- "I would love to arrange an informal visit, particularly to spend some time with [insert target ward / team / department]. I'm really passionate about progressing within this area, and it would be great to see the team dynamic and patient environment in person before I apply"
- "I've seen a vacancy for [insert position] on the [insert unit / setting] and am really keen on applying. I was wondering whether you'd be open to me coming in for an informal visit to observe and explore whether I'd be a good fit for the role"
- I'm due to finish my [insert training / qualification] soon and have my heart set on applying to work for your organisation. I'm trying to decide which area I'd be best suited to, and felt organising an informal visit beforehand could be a good idea. I'm particularly interested in [insert fields of interest]"
- 鈥淚鈥檓 drawn to your team鈥檚 reputation for excellent patient care, and want to make sure I鈥檓 the right fit. Could we arrange a visit so I can see how I might contribute?鈥
- 鈥淚 want to make sure any team I join is one where I can really add value. Would I be able to arrange an informal visit to understand your priorities and culture?鈥
Be specific
Be specific about which particular area or setting you'd want to visit and/or any people or particular teams you'd want to spend time with on the day. This will h