According to Crystal Waite, VHA Healthcare Recruitment and Marketing National Events Manager, health care conferences are an invaluable way for job seekers to connect with employers. In her role, she works directly with the VA National Recruiters who attend events and as such, has gained insight in to the best strategies for job seekers preparing to meet potential employers.

Crystal Waite, VHA Healthcare Recruitment and Marketing, National Events Manager

Crystal Waite, VHA Healthcare Recruitment and Marketing, National Events Manager

“When attendees visit the VA booth during a national health care conference, they have the unique opportunity to interact directly with consultants from the VHA National Recruitment Program to ask questions, discuss job availability, and learn more about careers at VA,” she says.

Crystal has learned that the most successful candidates prepare what she calls a “Five Minute Commercial” when networking with recruiters.

“Your ‘Five Minute Commercial’ is your chance to provide the recruiter the Who, What, When, Where and Why of you,” explains Crystal. The below is a quick reference guide:

Who – Introduce yourself

What – Tell what kind of job opportunity you are looking for

When – Give an estimated date of when you can start work

Where – Provide the locations where you are willing to relocate

Why – Briefly discuss your job experiences, certifications, training etc.

Crystal also emphasizes the importance of dressing for success and having a current, updated resume with you to leave behind.

To view the full list of Events that VA is attending in 2015, view our Events page.

If you are a health care professional interested in pursuing a career at VA, visit VAcareers.va.gov to learn more and apply. You can also view the Contact page for additional ways to connect.

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