The health trades are a big industry, and they’re growing! More people are getting interested in health and wellness, which means the demand for health professionals will continue to grow. If you want to break into this field, there are many options out there. You can get certified as a personal trainer or fitness instructor, become an acupuncturist or naturopath, take up nursing or paramedical courses, or enter the medical field. Here are some tips on how to break into top health trades:
1. Gain Experience in Related Fields
If you don’t have work experience, it can be difficult to get your foot in the door. If you’re looking to become a registered nurse (RN), for example, get some experience working as an aide or an assistant at a nursing home or hospital before getting your certification as a nurse. This will give you more insight into how healthcare facilities operate and what kind of work goes on behind the scenes.
It will also help make you more attractive to potential employers when you apply for jobs after graduating from nursing school. However, there are many ways to gain experience without being employed. For instance, if you want to work as a medical assistant, you can volunteer at a local clinic or hospital. This will help you build up your résumé and show potential employers that you’re serious about pursuing a career in this field.
2. Network With Others in the Industry
Healthcare is a networked industry, and you can use that to your advantage. Visit local hospitals, clinics, and other health-related businesses and introduce yourself. If you are interested in working as a nurse or physician assistant, be sure to visit those departments of the hospital whenever possible.
3. Look for Opportunities
The best way to find work is by looking for it yourself. You can pursue opportunities directly related to health — such as nursing or pharmacy — or choose a career that uses your skills in other areas. For example, if you have an aptitude for math and science or have experience with computers and technology, consider a career in medical billing or coding. Other options include becoming an insurance agent or working as a medical assistant. It’s important to start your search by looking at your interests and skills.
Then, look at the different types of jobs available within the industry—such as working in private practice versus working at a hospital—and find out what each job requires from its employees. Once you’ve identified some professions that interest you, it’s time to contact employers directly and ask about opportunities for entry-level positions. If you want to be an acupuncturist, look at job sites like Indeed and Craigslist for jobs near where you live or plan to move. If you want to be a nurse or paramedic, apply directly to hospitals or ambulance service companies near where you live!
4. Get Some Training
If you want to work in the healthcare field and are looking for a challenge, consider getting orthodontic assistant training. Although this career path requires a few years of training, it can lead to a rewarding and lucrative career. A healthcare degree will give you the skills and knowledge necessary for a career in medicine or nursing. If you want to dive into your newfound interest in health care but don’t know where to start, look into online schools. Some offer flexible schedules and convenient options for busy adults who want to earn their degrees online while still working full-time.
5. Look for Entry-Level Positions
You might be able to find an entry-level job after only earning a high school diploma or equivalency certificate — or even without any formal education at all if you have previous experience in the industry. Entry-level positions may require less training and pay less than those at higher levels of the organization, but they can be great stepping stones to higher-paying jobs down the road as long as you show dedication and competence.
6. Get Certified
Another way to break into this field is by getting certified. Certification demonstrates that you have training and experience in a particular area, which makes you more desirable to employers. If you’re already a licensed practitioner, you can use your license to offer services directly to patients or employers under a business name. Or you can use your license as leverage while pursuing further education through an accredited program. You may also want to consider earning a master’s degree or doctorate in physical therapy so that you can teach others once you’re established in your career.
Conclusion
Right now, there are more professionals seeking employment in the health industry than there are jobs. Because of this, job seekers need to develop a comprehensive strategy to successfully break into an already oversaturated market. The tips above can help guide you on your journey, and get you closer to reaching your goals!
