Facebook Question:
What is the best way to get your foot in the door working for HIM?
HIT Professional Answer:
In this economy the job market is not moving in many fields, so although time is pressed, you may have to bite the bullet and volunteer at a Healthcare facility. Volunteering may not be appealing, but will have multiple rewards for your career. Check out your local area facilities and contact the Volunteer Department. Ask to meet with the Director. Let them know what your degree and or certificate/credentials are. You may be able to volunteer a few hours every other week. Volunteering in a facility may give you first picks if a position becomes available. You can also check internal postings or network in the facility on potential upcoming positions that may open.
Go back to the hitting the pavement. If there are area facilities that you are interested in working, then go directly to their Human Resources Department with resume in hand. You can also print out an application from their website and include a hard copy of it with your resume. You may be told to submit online, and you can do that also, but sometimes showing up in person leaves better impression. Network, network, network!!! Check your local association’s newsletters for possible positions. Also, there are many head hunters that require no fee from you, only from an employer once someone is hired, so this might be a good option. Finally, let all your friends and family know you are looking!!!
LinkedIn Question:
In June, I will graduate with an Associate in HIT. I'm planning on taking the national exam soon after. I also plan to continue my education and finish my BHSA by June of 2012 but am worried about my large class graduating and flooding the market. Should I enter the field now with a lower paying job until I obtain my degree or take the risk of waiting and positions being filled?
HIT Professional Answer: I would recommend that you get in the field now if you can, and complete your BHSA while working. By doing it this way, you may also recieve some tuition assistance from an employer for your Bachelors degree. If you can obtain a position now, with the chance to advance, do it!!!