Why Applying for Jobs is a Waste of Time (and What to Do Instead): 3 Stats and 3 Steps to Unlock Hidden Opportunities as a Medical Expert

It's no wonder medical experts are tired of applying for 9-5 jobs.

I'll tell you about a strategy I've used that actually works—and it works for every stage of your career, from pharmacy students seeking internships to seasoned clinicians seeking fractional medical director roles.

So far, it's worked every time I've seen someone do it. It works almost TOO well.

But first, let's talk about the reasons why applying for jobs is a waste of time.

3 stats that prove you should stop wasting energy on the black hole of job applications:*

• It doesn't work. 90% of job seekers use this method, but it only gets them jobs 5% of the time.
• 80% of all available jobs in the U.S. are not posted on the internet (or anywhere). Hidden jobs are more common for senior and expert roles.
• Usually, nobody even skims your perfect cover letter. 52% of employers admit they don't even respond to more than half of the applicants.

3 steps to do instead to find a dream role (that actually work):

1. Make a list of at least 30 people who are doing now what you think you want to be doing.
2. Ask for 20-30 minute conversations. Just send a friendly email or DM. For example: "I am inspired by your work in X, and I would love to learn more about your career. Do you have time for an informal conversation next week?"
3. At the end of the call, do NOT ask for a job. Instead, gently mention the opportunities you are looking for. It's just like asking for directions. For example: "Thanks so much, this was a fascinating conversation. I wonder what steps would be involved for someone like me to explore how to become {a role} or {a part of this organization}."

The results? Most people will genuinely enjoy helping you.

• Some won't have time, but you'd be surprised by how many people will be delighted to give advice and talk about themselves to an enthusiastic listener.
• Some will tell you about jobs or opportunities that aren't publicly posted, yet or ever.
• Some will introduce you to someone else in their network.
• Most will at least keep you in mind and cheer you on. They might reach out in 2 hours—or in 2 years. Happens all the time.

4 guaranteed outcomes when you try this strategy. (You can't fail.)

1. You stop wasting endless time and energy on applications (just to get rejected by bots and ghosted).
2. You practice talking about yourself and your goals (with feedback from the real pros in your field).
3. You get valuable ideas and advice from the people who walked the walk (that isn't written anywhere).
4. You begin to build a long-term network of friendly people in your industry (who are now subconsciously looking for ways to help you).

And the best-case outcome?

Now, you have another problem: cherry-picking between dream offers and opportunities.

This happens all the time when medical experts ditch the job search hamster wheel and switch to this strategy, so don’t say I didn’t warn you.

*These stats and tips are from the book I read on repeat for 2 years, recommend to everyone, and have given away more copies than I can count: Designing Your Life by Bill Burnett and Dave Evans.