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Planning Recruitment

How to Recruit Phlebotomists, Nurses, Healthcare Assistants and ECG Technicians

For practice managers, clinic owners and laboratory leads recruiting clinical support staff. You will learn how to define the role clearly, set essential criteria and review the evidence candidates provide.

8 min read

At a glance

  • Start with the duties and patient group, not the job title.
  • Separate essential criteria from desirable ones.
  • Decide what supervision you can realistically provide.
  • Ask for evidence that matches each essential criterion.
  • Plan induction before the start date, not after it.

Practical steps

  1. Define the role

    List the tasks the person will actually perform, the patient groups they will see (adults, children, older people), the setting (clinic, home visits, laboratory) and the hours. Note which procedures need direct supervision.

  2. Set essential criteria

    Decide the minimum experience, training and skills needed on day one. Keep this list short, and make sure every item can be checked with evidence.

  3. Review evidence

    For each essential criterion, look for matching evidence: a training certificate, a logbook, a reference from a recent employer, or a practical assessment. Remember that a certificate records only what that certificate describes.

  4. Interview and assess

    Use the same questions and a scoring sheet for each candidate. Include scenario questions relevant to your setting, and a practical element where appropriate.

  5. Complete applicable checks

    Carry out the identity, right-to-work, reference and other checks that apply to your organisation and location. See the guide on reviewing candidates and employment checks.

  6. Arrange induction

    Agree the supervision, local procedures and equipment orientation before the person starts. See the guide on inducting new clinical support staff.

Role definition checklist

  • Duties listed in plain language
  • Patient groups and setting stated
  • Essential and desirable criteria separated
  • Supervision arrangements agreed
  • Hours, pay and contract type confirmed
  • Evidence required for each essential criterion identified

Related guides

Next step

Post a Vacancy

Last reviewed 4 November 2026. This guide is general information and does not replace your own policies or professional advice.