Three things new grads need to know about careers in Occ Rehab

Lucy Power joined KINNECT as a new graduate from James Cook University in 2016. Now an Area Manager for Central and North QLD, we asked Lucy to reflect upon her early experiences of life at KINNECT and find out more about the new grad positions we are currently recruiting for in her patch.

Lucy, tell us about your journey into KINNECT? 

Like most grads, after four years at James Cook University I was originally just looking for a job. I was looking for something that was dynamic and challenging. I was also really keen that I develop a varied skill-set and not pigeon-hole myself into a specific clinical role.  

Honestly, I stumbled upon KINNECT.  At the time, I really didn’t know a huge amount about Workplace Rehabilitation. I’d done a module on it at Uni, but admit I only had very entry-level knowledge about what was involved and what it might look like.  But it definitely piqued my interest so I decided to give it a shot. 

After I applied, I had an initial screening interview over the phone and then went through the top grading interview process. It all happened pretty quickly and I was delighted when I got the job. 

What were those early days like for you? 

At the time, KINNECT was training new grads in Brisbane so I spent my first few weeks in our HQ. I remember the first weeks and months being quite full-on. The learning curve was, in a word, huge! I think most people starting out their professional careers will relate! 

At KINNECT we wear many different hats and there were so many different services I needed to learn about. Workplace Rehabilitation (or Occ Rehab) consultants have to develop a very large skill set. After about six months working the role though, I settled though and really found my feet.  

I was a consultant full time for two years before my first promotion to Regional Manager, where I managed the Townsville and Cairns clinics. After a further two years in that role, I transitioned to the Area Manager role in the last few months.  I now oversee all our clinics from Cairns to Gladstone. As well as learning on the job, I’ve had a lot of training and coaching along the way.  There is unlimited external PD to take advantage of. For me, I’ve focussed on developing my people management and sales marketing skills to help me with my current role. 

You are currently recruiting for six graduate roles in your patch. What do job hunters need to know about working as a new grad in Occ Rehab?

We certainly are! We are currently recruiting for six graduate positions in our clinics in Gladstone, Mackay, Rockhampton, Townsville and Cairns. These roles are suitable for people who are qualified or about to qualify as an Occupational Therapist, Physiotherapist or Accredited Exercise Physiologist. If you are looking for a challenging and rewarding career where you will have the opportunity to continually develop your skills, KINNECT could definitely be the place for you.

Firstly, we are a people business and we need our consultants to not only have good clinical skills but possess excellent communication and interpersonal skills too.  We spend our days dealing with injured workers, their employers, health professionals, insurers – there are a lot of different people that you need to get on the same page. If you can’t build rapport with people and be personable and relatable, you will struggle in this industry. I always say that skills can be taught, but personality can’t.  

Secondly, there is a lot of variety in this business and you need to be able to roll with the punches. Our schedules are quite dynamic, so you need to be adaptable and flexible and understand that your day might not always look like what you think it will look like. 

Thirdly, as a new grad, you won’t know everything. It’s impossible! It’s absolutely okay to make mistakes because it’s the way we learn. The key is to be able to own your mistakes and make sure you learn from them. In five years, I’ve learned so much and I’m still finding new things to learn every day. 

Have you got any interview tips? 

As the hiring manager, my top tips include: 

1. Don’t NOT be late: 
2. Show some life and personality. Show me what you’re going to bring to the table. 
3. Do your homework: this shows me your drive and whether you really want the role. 
4. It’s okay to be nervous, but don’t let the nerves rule your interview. 

KINNECT is currently hiring for new grad positions in Mackay, Gladstone, Rockhampton, Townsville, and Cairns. Pop over to www.KINNECT.com.au for more information about starting your journey with us today.