Choosing the first job: Insights from new graduate occupational therapists from a regional Australian university

Abstract Introduction There is an increase in the number of graduates entering the occupational therapy workforce with graduates having to navigate both broader systemic influences and personal preferences in their decision‐making process. This study investigated how and why occupational therapy graduates from a regional Australian university selected their first job as practising occupational therapists. Methods An online exploratory, cross‐sectional survey design was utilised to collect quantitative and qualitative data from new graduate occupational therapists. Descriptive statistics were used to analyse quantitative responses. Free‐text responses were interpreted using reflexive thematic analysis. Consumer and Community Involvement There was no consumer or community involvement. Results A total of 30 new graduate occupational therapists completed the survey. The most commonly reported practice areas of work were disability, health and aged care. The most commonly reported practice settings were community, clinic and hospital. Participants rated work–life balance, professional development opportunities and interpersonal relationships as the most important factors that are considered when seeking their first job. Proactive and multifaceted processes, combining practical job‐seeking strategies, reflective decision‐making and the use of professional networks, were used to navigate the employment process. Conclusions Job selection was influenced more by relational, developmental and lifestyle workplace factors than by specific practice settings. Understanding these factors is important for informing occupational therapy education and recruitment strategies.