For many International Medical Graduates (IMGs), landing that very first NHS job can feel like trying to get into a secret club with no clear entry point. You have your GMC registration. You’ve passed your PLAB or MRCP. You’ve drafted your CV. You’re applying through Trac and NHS Jobs... yet, no callbacks.
There’s one overlooked strategy that many IMGs don’t explore enough — shadowing NHS consultants.
This isn’t about just observing on a ward for a few hours. It’s about building real relationships, learning the system from the inside, and positioning yourself as the kind of colleague someone would love to work with. Done right, shadowing can open doors faster than job boards ever will.
Let’s break down why this simple step is one of the most powerful, underutilized tools for IMGs aiming to enter the NHS system.
What is Shadowing and How is it Different from a Clinical Attachment?
Shadowing is informal observation — watching NHS consultants go through their typical day. Clinical attachments tend to be more formal, with a specific time period, supervision, and expectations.
Shadowing, however, can be more flexible and easier to set up — and often, more impactful. It can be arranged directly with a consultant or department. It's short-term, low-pressure, but allows you to experience the NHS culture first-hand.
In many cases, it’s shadowing that leads to a clinical attachment — or even a job offer.
Why NHS Consultants Are Willing to Help — If You Approach Them Right
Many IMGs hesitate to reach out to consultants, worrying they’ll be rejected or ignored. But here’s what most IMGs don’t realize:
NHS consultants love helping juniors who show initiative — especially international doctors who go the extra mile.
If you come with humility, curiosity, and clear intent, you’re not a burden. You’re a future colleague investing in your journey.
The key? Personalized outreach. Find a consultant in your desired specialty. Email them (politely and briefly), mention your background, your desire to learn, and request the chance to shadow. Attach your CV and GMC reference number.
Most won’t respond. But the ones who do? Gold.
What You Learn Through Shadowing That You Can’t Learn Anywhere Else
Shadowing provides insights no textbook or PLAB prep course can teach:
How the NHS actually works — beyond the theory
How consultants lead ward rounds, dictate notes, and handle patient interactions
How teams communicate, escalate concerns, and coordinate care
The unwritten rules — like bleep etiquette, documentation culture, and even how to approach your seniors
These micro-lessons are the soft power of working in the NHS. And when you apply for jobs, you'll write and speak from experience — not guesswork.
Turning Shadowing Into Career Capital
Shadowing is not just for learning — it’s for networking. A consultant who sees your professionalism, curiosity, and work ethic may:
Refer you to a clinical attachment opportunity
Recommend you internally when a trust posts a job
Provide a reference for your job application
Offer mentoring or portfolio guidance
In a system where your application is one of hundreds, relationships make the difference.
The Shadow-to-Job Pipeline: A True IMG Hack
Many IMGs who've struggled with job applications for months find success within weeks after initiating shadowing. Why? Because they stop being faceless applicants and start becoming real people in the NHS network.
Hospitals often prefer hiring someone who’s familiar with their system, their EPIC/Cerner software, their team structure — even if it’s just from shadowing.
When that next Trust Grade SHO or LAS job opens up? You’re already in their mind.
Your First NHS Job Might Start With One Email
If you're an IMG who's been endlessly applying to NHS jobs with no luck, it’s time to pivot. Shadowing NHS consultants is low-cost, high-reward, and gives you something most applicants lack: on-the-ground insight and genuine connections.
It’s not about being lucky. It’s about making your own opportunity.
Want to Learn How Other IMGs Did It?
Hundreds of IMGs are sharing their shadowing success stories, job hunt tips, and insider advice every day in our TrewLink Community Forum.
Join our forum, ask your questions, and connect with NHS consultants and IMG experts today at TrewLink.com
You’re not alone in this journey — and with the right strategy, your first NHS job might be closer than you think.