If you’re a nurse or allied health professional on the job hunt, you’re probably wondering:
“What exactly are recruiters looking for?”
It’s a great question—and knowing the answer can give you a serious edge in a competitive healthcare job market. Whether you’re fresh out of school or a seasoned clinician, standing out takes more than just a solid resume.
As a healthcare recruiting agency, we connect facilities with top-tier talent every day. Here’s what we—and the employers we partner with—really look for:
A Rock-Solid Clinical Skill Set
Let’s start with the obvious: you need to be clinically competent. But we’re not just talking about having a license and checking the right boxes.
We look for candidates who:
Stay up-to-date with certifications (BLS, ACLS, PALS, etc.)
Can confidently handle core responsibilities in their field
Are open to cross-training and learning new skills
Pro Tip: If you’ve taken continuing education courses or have specialty training (like wound care, telemetry, or EPIC proficiency), highlight that—it shows initiative and adaptability.
Reliability and Professionalism
Healthcare runs on trust. Facilities want team members who will show up, communicate clearly, and stay calm under pressure.
What this looks like:
Consistent job history (or a good reason for any gaps)
Punctuality and commitment to assignments
Strong references from supervisors or charge nurses
Recruiters take note of how you communicate from Day 1—your response time, attitude, and follow-through all matter.
Adaptability and Cultural Fit
No two units or facilities are the same. That’s why we look for professionals who can adjust quickly to different environments and team dynamics.
What helps:
Travel or contract experience
A positive, can-do attitude
Willingness to float or try new specialties
Even for permanent placements, adaptability is huge. It’s not just about doing the job—it’s about thriving in the specificsetting you’re placed in.
Soft Skills That Set You Apart
Great clinical skills get your foot in the door. Great people skills get you hired—and invited back.
Facilities want individuals who:
Show empathy and compassion
Communicate clearly with patients, families, and teams
Handle conflict with professionalism
We’ve seen countless hires made not just because of technical ability, but because a nurse or therapist had that “it factor” in how they connected with patients and coworkers.
A Willingness to Grow
Whether you’re early in your career or a seasoned vet, showing that you’re open to growth is a major plus.
This could mean:
Asking thoughtful questions during interviews
Taking feedback well
Seeking out roles that challenge you in a good way
Employers love to see that you’re not just clocking in—you’re looking to evolve in your role and make a meaningful impact.
Healthcare is fast-paced, emotionally demanding, and incredibly rewarding—and the best professionals are the ones who bring both skill and heart to their work.
If you’re ready to take the next step in your career, our recruiters are here to help. We go beyond just matching you with jobs—we help you find opportunities that align with your goals, personality, and lifestyle.
Let’s find your next great role—one where you can thrive.