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Job outlook for healthcare consultants in the United States
Are healthcare consultant jobs in demand?
Healthcare consultant job and salary trends over time
Healthcare consultant jobs over time
Healthcare consultant job growth rate over time
| Year | # of jobs | % of population |
|---|---|---|
| 2021 | 2,709 | 0.00% |
| 2020 | 2,588 | 0.00% |
| 2019 | 2,502 | 0.00% |
| 2018 | 2,413 | 0.00% |
| 2017 | 2,324 | 0.00% |
Average healthcare consultant salary over time
Healthcare consultant salary by year
| Year | Avg. salary | Hourly rate | % Change |
|---|---|---|---|
| 2026 | $84,516 | $40.63 | +2.8% |
| 2025 | $82,202 | $39.52 | +2.0% |
| 2024 | $80,611 | $38.76 | +1.4% |
| 2023 | $79,493 | $38.22 | +1.4% |
| 2022 | $78,413 | $37.70 | +0.0% |
Healthcare consultant jobs by state
Most common states for healthcare consultants
| Rank | State | Population | # of jobs | Employment/ 1000ppl |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | District of Columbia | 693,972 | 405 | 58% |
| 2 | South Dakota | 869,666 | 153 | 18% |
| 3 | New Mexico | 2,088,070 | 304 | 15% |
| 4 | Vermont | 623,657 | 91 | 15% |
| 5 | Maine | 1,335,907 | 187 | 14% |
| 6 | West Virginia | 1,815,857 | 242 | 13% |
| 7 | South Carolina | 5,024,369 | 579 | 12% |
| 8 | Rhode Island | 1,059,639 | 131 | 12% |
| 9 | Delaware | 961,939 | 118 | 12% |
| 10 | Wyoming | 579,315 | 68 | 12% |
| 11 | Alabama | 4,874,747 | 558 | 11% |
| 12 | New Hampshire | 1,342,795 | 143 | 11% |
| 13 | Illinois | 12,802,023 | 1,236 | 10% |
| 14 | Massachusetts | 6,859,819 | 710 | 10% |
| 15 | Oklahoma | 3,930,864 | 374 | 10% |
| 16 | North Dakota | 755,393 | 73 | 10% |
| 17 | Virginia | 8,470,020 | 770 | 9% |
| 18 | Oregon | 4,142,776 | 383 | 9% |
| 19 | Connecticut | 3,588,184 | 336 | 9% |
| 20 | Alaska | 739,795 | 63 | 9% |
Most common cities for healthcare consultants
| Rank | City | # of jobs | Employment/ 1000ppl | Avg. salary |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Frankfort | 2 | 7% | $72,466 |
| 2 | Juneau | 2 | 6% | $86,781 |
| 3 | Annapolis | 2 | 5% | $94,008 |
| 4 | Dover | 2 | 5% | $76,965 |
| 5 | Hartford | 2 | 2% | $89,425 |
| 6 | Lansing | 2 | 2% | $81,206 |
| 7 | Springfield | 2 | 2% | $81,915 |
| 8 | Baton Rouge | 2 | 1% | $68,448 |
| 9 | Des Moines | 2 | 1% | $78,699 |
| 10 | Little Rock | 2 | 1% | $55,082 |
| 11 | Montgomery | 2 | 1% | $78,204 |
| 12 | Tallahassee | 2 | 1% | $70,644 |
| 13 | Phoenix | 3 | 0% | $77,112 |
| 14 | Washington | 3 | 0% | $101,710 |
| 15 | Atlanta | 2 | 0% | $66,981 |
| 16 | Boston | 2 | 0% | $111,378 |
| 17 | Denver | 2 | 0% | $91,543 |
| 18 | Indianapolis | 2 | 0% | $67,022 |
| 19 | Sacramento | 2 | 0% | $108,734 |
Healthcare Consultant job outlook: Expert opinions
Our panel of healthcare consultant experts
Oklahoma State University - Oklahoma City
Spalding University
University of Alabama at Birmingham
University of Nevada - Las Vegas
The University of Texas Medical Branch
Indiana University Kokomo
Prairie View A & M University
University of West Florida
Lewis-Clark State College
Coastal Carolina University
Florida State University
University of Nevada, Reno
Lasell University
Clarion University of Pennsylvania
Kent State University
The University of North Carolina at Greensboro
University of Central Missouri
Southern Utah University
Penny Ridenour
Dean of School of Health SciencesOklahoma State University - Oklahoma City
Health Services/Allied Health/Health Sciences
What general advice would you give to a Healthcare Consultant?
Penny Ridenour: Maximize earnings by being flexible to fit the employer's needs. Accept assignments that promote growth in your desired specialization.
What Healthcare Consultant skills would you recommend for someone trying to advance their career?
Penny Ridenour: Commit to lifelong learning in healthcare due to its innovative nature. Technological proficiency is crucial for adapting to changes.
What will help Healthcare Consultants increase their earning potential?
Penny Ridenour: Pay attention to soft skills such as listening, empathy, and communication. Develop skills in resiliency to excel in healthcare.
Craig Kimble PHARMD, MBA, MS, BCACP, TTS
Associate ProfessorWhat general advice would you give to a Healthcare Consultant?
Craig Kimble PHARMD, MBA, MS, BCACP, TTS: -Be open minded and willing to explore areas of practice. Many employers start you out in a high needs area and move you as positions come open.
-If you are not geographically restricted, the sky is the limit. Discuss what your goals are with recruiters.
-Be willing to learn new skills and put them to work. An entrepreneurial mindset will facilitate communication with supervisors. Present ideas and take their advice.
What Healthcare Consultant skills would you recommend for someone trying to advance their career?
Craig Kimble PHARMD, MBA, MS, BCACP, TTS: -Healthcare informatics
-Ability to be bilingual
-Clinical skills to practice at an advanced level
-Good communication skills
-Entrepreneurial mindset – healthcare is changing and how we deliver it will to; we must all become efficient and cost-effective providers of quality care.
What will help Healthcare Consultants increase their earning potential?
Craig Kimble PHARMD, MBA, MS, BCACP, TTS: -Be willing to be flexible (shifts, locations, etc..). Be willing to cover extra shifts if needed. Consider floating if needed as well. This is very needed by many employers
-Ask a recruiter/interviewer, what a successful employee looks like for that organization. Spell out success.
-Set goals with your new supervisor. What do we need to achieve and what are some stretch goals?
Jacey Maple MSN, RN
Assistant ProfessorSpalding University
Health Services/Allied Health/Health Sciences
What general advice would you give to a Healthcare Consultant?
Jacey Maple MSN, RN: Looking at trends in healthcare I would focus on the following skills to hone over the next 3-5 years: Strong Communication and Interpersonal Collaboration, Emotional Resilience, Networking and building professional relationships.
What Healthcare Consultant skills would you recommend for someone trying to advance their career?
Jacey Maple MSN, RN: Starting out I would consider and implement the following practices: Acquire relevant education and build up certifications, research salary trends to communicate them at interviews, continue to polish and build your resume and/or CV, stay updated on industry changes, and lastly seek out all opportunities to grow your experience and expertise in your field.
What will help Healthcare Consultants increase their earning potential?
Jacey Maple MSN, RN: My best advice for those entering any health service field is to seek out mentorship and guidance. Find mentors who can guide you in your career journey. Look for experienced professionals who can offer insights, advice, and support. A mentor can help you navigate challenges, make informed decisions, and provide valuable connections.
What general advice would you give to a Healthcare Consultant?
J'Aime Jennings PhD: These are not concrete rules, but individuals at the start of their career can maximize their salary potential by gaining experience and growing their skillset to be of benefit to their respective organizations. In the beginning say “yes” to participating on projects whether you are excited about them or not. The knowledge gained may be invaluable to the next project that does excite you. Consider various certifications (e.g., LEAN Six Sigma, Project Management, etc.) that help you grow your knowledge base while also helping you stand out from others.
What Healthcare Consultant skills would you recommend for someone trying to advance their career?
J'Aime Jennings PhD: My general advice would be to pursue all the opportunities available to you and don’t shy away from the challenging tasks. Additionally, graduates should know that the learning never ends; the classroom gives you the foundation upon which to build your knowledge and skills, but it cannot capture the myriad of scenarios and tough decisions you are bound to face throughout your career.
What will help Healthcare Consultants increase their earning potential?
J'Aime Jennings PhD: I believe that interpersonal and communication skills that aid you in interacting with individuals and teams and allow for you to convey important information coherently across varied stakeholder audiences will be crucial for any graduate pursuing a career in healthcare administration. In addition, adaptability is another vital skill. Healthcare is ever changing, and administrators must have a plan but also be ready for contingencies when new developments occur. Critical thinking and analytic skills, as well as knowledge about artificial intelligence (AI) capabilities will certainly be prevalent skills for the field.
Jay Shen
Professor and Association DeanUniversity of Nevada - Las Vegas
Health And Medical Administrative Services
What general advice would you give to a Healthcare Consultant?
Jay Shen: Understand that your career is a marathon, not a sprint. Get any job in a healthcare organization and learn what you like and don’t like.
What Healthcare Consultant skills would you recommend for someone trying to advance their career?
Jay Shen: There is a 2015 Carnegie Institute study that shows 85% of your financial success is based on your soft skills. As a healthcare executive you need to be able to bring diverse professionals together to solve complex problems for the good of the patient and the organizations. Continue to polish your soft skills, e.g., effective leadership, goal setting and achievement, leading meetings for positive results.
What will help Healthcare Consultants increase their earning potential?
Jay Shen: Don’t chase salary. Do what you love and get the best you can be. Salary fails to motivate past getting your basic needs met.
What general advice would you give to a Healthcare Consultant?
Dr. K. Garling-Nañez Pharm.D.: Resilience and self-awareness are currently essential and will continue to be necessary. Burnout is very high in healthcare-related fields. Therefore, it is vital to have the coping skills and the ability to communicate to ensure your job is healthy and productive.
Flexibility and a growth mindset will also be an asset to most industries. In healthcare, most opportunities exist where other people may feel unqualified or need more experience. The more out-of-the-box tasks and opportunities you take, the more tools you'll have to get significant positions in the future.
Don't be afraid of something you aren't familiar with or perceive that you are not 'good at' since those areas are often where you can thrive the most. Being fearless in your pursuits and learning from perceived failures will put you in the upper ranks of your peers.
What Healthcare Consultant skills would you recommend for someone trying to advance their career?
Dr. K. Garling-Nañez Pharm.D.: Take the initiative to be well-versed in the areas for advancement in your field or the positions of interest, paving your path to success. If you have to take a position out of necessity, continue to build your CV with a goal in mind for the future. If you continue to learn and grow, you'll be more flexible and be able to take positions others shy away from.
Make sure the salary you expect aligns with the location, the need, and your experience. High salaries often do not equal job satisfaction; therefore, before applying, decide your career priorities. Quality of life frequently requires compromise in other areas, including commutes, schedule, salary, and responsibilities.
Lastly, salary potential is often tied to corporate culture and opportunities for advancement. In offices or facilities with a 'more with less' mindset, where efficiency and cost-cutting are prioritized, fewer salary benefits may be available, and more 'thankless' tasks may be assigned.
What will help Healthcare Consultants increase their earning potential?
Dr. K. Garling-Nañez Pharm.D.: When seeking a position, it's crucial to physically visit the facility or location and interact with the employees before applying or interviewing. This personal touch provides a realistic view of the working conditions and internal culture and introduces you to your potential coworkers, aiding in your decision-making process.
Always apply to positions that fit your ideals and how you want to practice in your career. For example, it may only be possible if you value relationships with clients/patients in relatively low-volume or less busy locations. Research the values and goals of the company or discuss upcoming changes or aims with management.
Lastly, pay attention to the potential of rural locations. They often provide exceptional opportunities for standing out, growing, and advancing in your career, which is a significant advantage for recent graduates.
What general advice would you give to a Healthcare Consultant?
Dr. Travis Gagen: My advice is twofold, know your worth and polish your soft skills. Knowing your worth involves being knowledgeable about how your compounded educational, professional, and lived experiences have prepared you for full-time employment. These might be considered the hard skills that you bring to the workplace. Prior to starting your career, give thought to what skills and knowledge areas you’ve honed during your educational and professional journey and don’t be shy to lead with those strengths. In today’s employment market, employers want to know what you offer and how that can enhance their mission. Thinking critically about how your own experience translates to practice in the workplace can set you apart from others while demonstrating to your team that you are self-knowledgeable. Having humility goes a long way, too. Being strengths-based does not have to be bombastic, but rather an opportunity to identify areas of learning and growth from your team. This is where soft skills have been and remain imperative in the workplace. Soft skills are character traits and interpersonal skills that make for a well-balanced employee. Being able to know when to take the lead versus when to follow and assist, for example. Developing soft skills may take time, but being open to feedback from peers is a great way to get a pulse check on how you’re doing. Employers need to be confident that you are an effective communicator, especially in an outward facing industry that serves clients. Soft skills can be learned. I encourage any new employee to take advantage of networking events, public speaking opportunities, and social events that can help you hone your interpersonal connections with others.
What Healthcare Consultant skills would you recommend for someone trying to advance their career?
Dr. Travis Gagen: Start small. During your education, set yourself up with an entry-level job in the health science and/or human services field(s). As the director of the pre-medical/health profession scholars at a small private college, I often talk with students about transitioning into a para-professional job around sophomore year. Examples might include getting trained as a certified nursing assistant, emergency medical technician, or phlebotomist. Not only will this enhance your educational experience through connecting theory to practice, but it will accumulate real-life experience that can be directly transferable to the next, higher paying position.
What general advice would you give to a Healthcare Consultant?
Ghadah Alshuwaiyer PhD, CHES®: I advise recent graduates to seek professional development opportunities under the guidance of an experienced mentor to help them achieve their desired career goals. Building a robust professional network and seeking interdisciplinary collaborations are also important.
Catherine Kisavi-Atatah Ph.D.
Assistant ProfessorPrairie View A & M University
Health Services/Allied Health/Health Sciences
What general advice would you give to a Healthcare Consultant?
Catherine Kisavi-Atatah Ph.D.: There are several strategies you can use to optimize your salary potential in health and public
health. Some of those strategies include but are not limited to:
1. Obtain your bachelor’s degree: Graduating with either a bachelors or masters in the
field is essential. Also, consider getting additional certifications in your field of study.
For example, students can get certifications in case management, certification
healthcare leadership etc.
2. Include a certification in your field: Students can specialize in epidemiology, policy,
biostatistics etc.
3. Gain hands on experience: While obtaining your degree, students are encouraged to get
practical experience through internship and volunteer work.
4. Networking: Students are encouraged to network with other professionals in their field.
Attending conferences and joining professional organizations such as Society for Public
Health Education (SOPHE) and American Public Health Association (APHA) will help
students connect with their peers and other professionals.
5. Research Activity: Students should also collaborate with faculty in research
6. Continuous learning: Students should also participate in continuous education in their
field. Students are encouraged to stay informed on policies that affect health outcomes
7. Negotiate Salary: Advocate for your salary.
What Healthcare Consultant skills would you recommend for someone trying to advance their career?
Catherine Kisavi-Atatah Ph.D.: The field of health services is ever changing. In the next 3-5 years some of the skills that
are expected to become important in this field:
1. Artificial Intelligence: Familiarizing oneself with AI technology
2. Cybersecurity and privacy protection: Storing health information from cyberattack is
extremely important.
3. Cultural competence and equity: Understanding and addressing health disparities is
crucial in health services
4. Mental Health: Understanding and promoting mental health polices
What will help Healthcare Consultants increase their earning potential?
Catherine Kisavi-Atatah Ph.D.: 1. Stay informed: Working in health services require students to stay abreast of policies
that affect health care especially in minority communities. This is crucial as changes in
policy can also impact patient care. Staying informed also means getting information
from reputable sources and using critical thinking skills and best practice prior to making
healthcare decisions.
2. Develop strong communication skills: Health service practitioners will spend majority of
there work time advocating for patients and implementing interventions measures that
will help individuals and communities address their health care needs. Effective
communication is not only to benefit patients but it is also for colleagues, health
practitioners as well as supervisors. Communication is not just verbal, but it is also
written and physical.
3. Collaborate with your peers: This is important as it allows you to share knowledge with
experienced professionals who can give you needed advice. Also connecting with other
professionals as well as colleagues can help build trust and foster team work.
4. Stay Organized: This is important because the healthcare industry Is fast changing and
adopting to changes in unexpected situations while maintaining a positive attitude will
enhance your career.
5. Seek feedback: Feedback is invaluable as it can help you reflect on your practices. This
can allow you to identify areas of strength and weaknesses.
6. Remain Ethical: Uphold ethical standards and remain professional
7. Join professional organizations: Professional organizations provide health services
professionals with updates on policy.
8. Attend conferences and present: This exposes you to others in the field and also allows
you to network with other professionals
9. Social Media and Professional Networks: Follow health policy experts on social medial
platforms
10. Practice selfcare: Taking time out for your self can help you reflect on your health
What general advice would you give to a Healthcare Consultant?
Dr. Haris Alibašić Ph.D., MPA: My general advice is that embarking on a career in business or any other field demands a blend of practical skills, adaptability, and a continuous learning mindset. Graduates should prioritize the following strategies, including but not limited to: - Building a Strong Foundation of Business Fundamentals, including core business principles, finance, marketing, operations, and strategy to facilitate adaptability to changing markets. - Cultivating a growth mindset, embracing challenges, viewing failures as learning opportunities, cultivating resilience, and a willingness to step out of one's comfort zone. - Networking and building relationships with peers, mentors, and industry professionals open doors to opportunities and provide invaluable insights and guidance. - Staying informed of industry trends as the business landscape constantly evolves, which is obvious with the recent trend of expanded use of AI and ML.
What Healthcare Consultant skills would you recommend for someone trying to advance their career?
Dr. Haris Alibašić Ph.D., MPA: To maximize salary potential early in their careers, graduates should consider the following strategies: Specialize in High-Demand Areas, Never Stop Learning/Pursue Additional Education, Negotiate Offers, and Seek Mentorship and Constructive Feedback."
What skills will help Healthcare Consultants earn the most?
Jenny Scott: -Emotional Intelligence
-Relevant industry experience (expertise)
-Written and oral presentation communication
-Ability to relate and connect . . .the best strategy in the world will live on paper only if the leader is not able to relate to their people (all stakeholder groups) and connect. Leadership involves three key elements: People - Influence - Goals. The most effective leaders are able to ethically influence their followers for the purpose of attaining the organization's mission and goals.
Sourav Batabyal Ph.D.
Assistant Professor, Finance and EconomicsCoastal Carolina University
Finance and Economics Department
What skills stand out on Healthcare Consultant resumes?
Sourav Batabyal Ph.D.: Problem-solving, Creative thinking, Data Analytics, Competitive Strategies, Communication, Leadership and Team Building, Decision making.
C. Darren Brooks Ph.D.
Assistant Department Chair and Executive Director, Center for Human Resource ManagementFlorida State University
Department of Management and the Center for Human Resource Management
What soft skills should all Healthcare Consultants possess?
C. Darren Brooks Ph.D.: While advancements in technology, artificial intelligence (AI), and data analytics occupy center stage in many areas of management practice, soft skills continue to be seen as equally or even more important skills for success in the field of management. Soft skills are typically described as personal attributes, qualities, and characteristics that enable us to interact more effectively with others. In most fields of management, our ability to communicate, work with, and interact with other people constitutes a significant portion of the work we do. Consequently, employers are focused on identifying candidates who possess strong skills are areas of communication (verbal, written, and non-verbal), leadership and followership, collaboration, an ability to work in teams, intellectual curiosity, adaptability, conflict management, problem-solving, creativity.
Jim McClenahan
Director of Career and Corporate OutreachUniversity of Nevada, Reno
College of Business
What skills stand out on Healthcare Consultant resumes?
Jim McClenahan: Most importantly, skills that are customized for the job you are applying. Someone could work in a restaurant and have great customer management skills that would work well in a bank. The key is identifying "transferrable skills"-how what you did is relevant for the job you are applying. The applicant has to articulate that-don't expect the committee, screener, or HR Recruiter to make the connections. For business majors, the skills that differentiate applicants are technical skills when they are relevant to the job. Data analysis, coding, SQL are often looked for by employers that have a tech focus as preferred skills.
Are there any particularly good places in the United States for Healthcare Consultants to find work opportunities?
Jim McClenahan: The trend of great opportunities consolidating in major metropolitan areas seems to be reversing. With working remotely appearing to be a permanent feature/benefit, find a place to live that offers a lower cost and great quality of life for you and your family! Build a variety of skills and achievements in different areas and find the right culture that matches your skills.
Dr. Brian Wardyga
Professor of Communication; General Manager, 109.2FM WLAS & LCTVLasell University
School of Communication and The Arts
What hard/technical skills are most important for Healthcare Consultants?
Dr. Brian Wardyga: Technical skills such as accounting and project management and other computer skills demanded by the particular market. Beyond typical Microsoft Office skills would be Analytical software and marketing and presentation skills/tools.
What are the biggest trends we'll see in the Healthcare Consultant job market given the pandemic?
Dr. Miguel Olivas-Luján Ph.D.: As the economy "reopens" (thanks to appeased fears of contagion driven by vaccination, herd immunity, people worn out by the lockdowns, warmer weather, etc.), we should see workforce adjustments across industries and occupations. Already in March, unemployment was returning to 6% (from a high of 14.8% in April 2020, but after a low of 3.5 in February 2020; https://data.bls.gov/timeseries/LNS14000000). Barring unexpected resistance in the virus variants or other influences, the summer and fall months should give us better job market numbers, but this recovery seems to be benefitting some population segments more than others. The unemployed rate for teenagers was at 13%, followed by Blacks (9.6%), Hispanics (7.9%), Asians (6%), adult men (5.8%), and adult women (5.7%; more detail is available at https://www.bls.gov/news.release/empsit.nr0.htm).
What technical skills for a Healthcare Consultant stand out to employers?
Dr. Miguel Olivas-Luján Ph.D.: Of course, there is variation across industries, but the long lockdown months have highlighted the need for skills that make telecommuting and work from home more efficient and effective. The ability to use not just technologies but also work habits that allow collaboration mediated by information and communication tools has only become more valuable. With this, I mean that it is important to use Zoom, Teams, Skype, and similar technologies, but even more than that, scheduling, collaboration, creative, professional-grade, and timely delivery (in the absence of face-to-face interaction) is vital. If a higher proportion of work-from-home becomes predominant (as many commentators expect), these skills are likely to differentiate high-performers from their counterparts.
Will there be an enduring impact of the coronavirus pandemic on Healthcare Consultants?
Michael Ellis Ph.D.: Most economics undergraduates obtain jobs as analysts, especially in the financial and non-financial business industries, because of their skills in analyzing data. The pre-coronavirus pandemic trend of increasing job opportunities for those who can analyze data will not be reversed by the pandemic and in fact may increase the growth of such job opportunities.
Dr. Dianne Welsh
Hayes Distinguished Professor, Founding Director Entrepreneurship Cross-Disciplinary ProgramThe University of North Carolina at Greensboro
Department of Marketing, Entrepreneurship, Hospitality & Tourism
Will there be an enduring impact of the coronavirus pandemic on Healthcare Consultants?
Dr. Dianne Welsh: I believe all students will feel an enduring impact of the coronavirus pandemic from the perspective of knowing that one should be ready for anything, no matter when, no matter where. We teach this in entrepreneurship and it is the best degree to teach flexibility and dealing with ambiguity-the unknown. We teach how to "pivot" and look for opportunities out of any situation.
What will help Healthcare Consultants increase their earning potential?
Dr. Dianne Welsh: Finding opportunities that evolve in a myriad of situations. These can be while a graduate in entrepreneurship works for a small/medium enterprise, a non-profit, or a larger company or even themselves. All businesses need entrepreneurs which is "to be creative and innovative in anything that creates value" (Welsh 2014). From my book Creative Cross-Disciplinary Entrepreneurship (Palgrave-Macmillan). Entrepreneurs are needed in every organization. By finding opportunities, bringing them to the attention of companies or individuals, or pursuing the opportunity themselves, an entrepreneur increases their earning potential. Finding opportunities is a daily endeavor.
What are the biggest trends we'll see in the Healthcare Consultant job market given the pandemic?
Dr. Dan Jensen: There will be a combination of opportunities and losses across the next 3-5 years because of the COVID-19 pandemic. Many industries will find it difficult to recover such as hospitality (hotels, restaurants, etc.), entertainment (movie theatres, night clubs, casinos, etc.), manufacturing, and educational services. But many industries and career pathways are opening up because of the use of online technologies. Positions that include remote work that leverage technology will remain and probably increase across time. Supply chain, project management, eCommerce, computer science, data science ("big data"), digital content, and artificial intelligence specialists will continue to increasingly be in demand. The healthcare industry has been in flux because of increasing costs but will emerge on the other side of the pandemic with opportunities for nurses, healthcare support staff, and related technologies (e.g., the "electronic healthcare record"). Irrespective of the pandemic, careers in sales or customer relationship management (CRM) will continue to be a popular launching point for recent college graduates.
The recruitment/hiring process is likely to become much longer than in the past and will rely on virtual interviews instead of face-to-face. With a high unemployment rate, it will be more difficult for younger, less experienced candidates to get hired. This is not great news for recent college graduates, but all is not lost.
Networking has always been the number one way that people find work opportunities. The skill is more important than ever. My recommended approach is to: identify a list of companies where you would like to work; research job postings within the company (and apply!) while simultaneously identifying contacts at the company (LinkedIn is a great tool to do this); then reaching out to contacts by using your existing network for an introduction (identify someone you know is already connected to the person you want to meet and ask them to forward a letter of introduction on your behalf). This leads to an "informational interview" (not a job interview); a chance to speak with someone about the company and its culture.
What are the biggest trends we'll see in the Healthcare Consultant job market given the pandemic?
Camille Thomas Ph.D.: There will be several trends in the job market, especially for Exercise Science majors, making it difficult for recent graduates to find employment. We have seen health care employment decline, gyms shut down, and athletics postponed. Yet, as the country turns the corner on COVID-19, exercise scientists' demands will improve as the nation directs its efforts to protect and enhance its citizens' health and well-being. Job opportunities in the exercise science field are predicted to grow faster than jobs overall, especially in clinical exercise physiology, health/ wellness coaching, corporate wellness, fitness trainers and instructors, and public health. Also, exercise science majors, who continue to graduate school and professional school, will see projected growth in Physical Therapy, Occupational Therapy, Athletic Training, Nursing, and Medicine.
What technical skills for a Healthcare Consultant stand out to employers?
Camille Thomas Ph.D.: Exercise Science majors will want to be skilled in remote instruction, tele-health platforms, technical writing, and data analysis to stand out to employers. Also, in light of what we have learned from the pandemic, students should improve their communication, problem-solving, innovation, and resourcefulness. Employers will be looking for individuals that can be flexible and adapt.
What's a good job out of college for Healthcare Consultants?
Camille Thomas Ph.D.: A student with a bachelor's degree in Exercise Science should consider, in order of projected growth,
(1) Respiratory Therapy. COVID-19 and the growth in the middle-aged and older population will increase respiratory conditions and demand for respiratory therapy services and treatments in hospitals.
(2) Fitness Trainer/ Instructors/ Coach. The demand for fitness trainers, instructors, and coaches will increase as businesses, governments, and insurance organizations continue to recognize the benefits of health and fitness programs for their employees and provide incentives to join gyms or other types of health clubs.
(3) Health Educators (e.g., health coach, corporate wellness, public health). Growth will be driven by efforts to improve health outcomes and reduce healthcare costs by teaching people healthy behaviors and explaining how to use available healthcare services.
(4) Exercise Physiology (e.g., cardiac rehabilitation). The growth in the middle-aged and older population will increase cardiac events and clinical exercise physiologists' demand. Demand may also rise as healthcare providers emphasize exercise and preventive care to help patients recover from cardiovascular and pulmonary diseases and improve their overall health.
(5) Kinesiotherapy. Like Exercise Physiology, the aging population and healthcare's emphasis on preventing disease and injury may increase the demand for kinesiotherapy, which enhances the strength, endurance, and mobility of individuals with functional limitations or those requiring extended physical conditioning.
These careers focus on protecting and improving the health of our society.