The healthcare industry is rapidly growing, employing nearly 15 million people in the United States alone. This past decade saw the industry add over 2.5 million jobs to the nation, showing an over 20% growth rate for employees. You can browse 2,000+ new positions right now and try to find your job on the fast growing market today.
While all of this growth is great for the economy, it also means that individuals looking to work in the industry now have a harder time standing out. If you’re looking to land a career in a hospital, private practice, or nursing facility, then it’s crucial to strengthen your credentials with these five tips.
Tip 1: Identify Your Strengths and Weaknesses
Are you the type of person who wants to work directly with patients, or would rather work behind the scenes to make it all happen? Would you rather stand on your feet during a shift or sit at a desk? These are just two important questions to ask yourself when thinking of the position you’d be best suited for.
It’s important to identify your strength and weaknesses before applying for a position. Be honest with yourself and write down everything that you can think of. Then, identify a position that plays on your strengths.
Tip 2: Development and Training
Whether you’re brand new to the healthcare industry or are a hardened veteran, you’ll need to work on your professional development. Reforms and changes happen often, which make up-to-date certifications your resume’s best friend.
Healthcare administration and management certificates are a great place to start, as are certifications for LNAs and medical assistants. Don’t be afraid to take on a little extra training, proving to any future employer that you are committed to staying up to date.
Tip 3: Freshen Up Your Resume
As with any career, a proper resume and cover letter are essential. Take the time to write down any relevant work history, checking for errors in spelling and grammar. Don’t forget to make your cover letter specific to the job you are applying for, as well.
When changing careers, skip the years you earned your degree and focus on your work history. Make sure to include valuable skills, hours spent training, and how both of these relate to the job you’re applying for.
Tip 4: Volunteer
If you find that your related work experience is lacking, volunteer at a local organization to fill the gap. This type of work prepares you with new, transferrable skills while demonstrating your desire to both hone your professional skills and contribute to the community.
Plus, you might make a few valuable connections. You should always try to build your professional network when possible.
Tip 5: Stay Realistic
Those changing careers might have several years of non-medical experience, a non-medical degree, and even the majority of skills they might need in an office setting. However, it is important to remember that you might have to start out at a lower level when entering this industry.
This might mean a cut in pay, or the need to pursue a new degree. However, it is easy to catch back up to your current earnings once you become an established medical professional. Keep your expectations realistic when it comes to positions you can apply for.
