Finding Your Ideal Job and Negotiating Your Contract

Abstract

The process of finding the ideal orthopaedic practice and negotiating a satisfactory employment agreement may be arduous and stressful. The keys to success are similar to attaining proficiency in orthopaedic surgery and include having an insight into your personality, your future needs, and desires; and committing the requisite time for preparation, planning and study to accumulate sufficient knowledge for the tasks. The internet permits access to diverse sources of information, which allows for planning, retrieval of reference materials and for benchmarking contracts and job offers. As professional recruitment and employment are 2 facets of a rapidly evolving health care environment, the "numbers" you need to know are dynamic. Access to information that is updated frequently is invaluable to the prospective employee. Multiple sources of favorable information are referenced with web site addresses. A well-written contract is essential for both the employee and the employer. A thoughtful contract should clarify mutual understandings, expectations, and serve as a guide for resolving both anticipated and unanticipated events. A review of common employment benefits and contract provisions is listed for quick reference. If emotional involvement is a concern to the prospective employee, consider hiring an intermediary to help with the negotiations, contract evaluation, and provisions.