3 Tips for Hiring & Training New Therapists At Your Practice
If you are a solo therapist, you may have considered expanding your practice to include more therapists. You may already have several therapists but need to add more. This step in the development of your business can be exciting, but also stressful! Read on for some quick tips when it comes to new hires.
1. More Than One Point of Contact
Most businesses might just put out an ad for employment, then interview whomever answers. Remember: you are finding someone who will be the face of your business, this is a big decision. It's OK to ask them to jump through a few hoops.
For example, begin with asking them a brief questionnaire through email, like why they want to work at your agency, their certifications, etc. Make sure to get their resume at this step.
Next, move to a short phone interview to go over the "non-negotiables" of your practice. This lets you get an immediate sense of their personality. If they aren't going to be a good fit, there's no need to waste time with an in-person interview.
Finally, always check their references!
2. Create A To-Do List For New Hires
You will want to create a document of all the little steps necessary for your new hire. Having a document makes sure that all the tasks get done, and aren't just being held in your own memory.
A few examples might include:
- ___ Provide a copy of license & other credentials to Bob.
- ___ See Sally about creating user account in BHC Portal.
- ___ Get your NPI number.
- ___ Apply to Blue Cross.
- ___ Apply to Acme Health Insurance Co.
- ___ Set up your voicemail greeting
3. Create Training Document That Shows Therapists Specific Tasks
To get your new hire off the ground as quickly as possible, the best approach is to create a document for new hires, with step-by-step instructions on various tasks. Even better: print it off, hole punch, and place in a "training manual" binder. Make sure to include screenshots and examples.
For example, you will want to show how to use and access your EMR/EHR. If you are using BHC, we have training videos and documentation already created! Just tell your new hire to visit the "BHC Online Help" link! We are also happy to provide live training in a video webinar. Just contact us for more details.
Make sure to also show how to set up email, voicemail, accepting payments, and any specific forms or procedures you wish to do.