Are you toying with the idea of pursuing a different livelihood, possibly in the field of healthcare? People change careers for a variety of reasons. Perhaps you’re experiencing a slump and would like to explore a new path, or you’d simply like to increase your earning potential. Or, maybe you’ve always envisioned yourself working happily at the job of your dreams, and you feel ready to make that dream a reality. A new employment opportunity that is well-matched to your skill set and personality can revitalize your outlook and enhance your well-being. Nevertheless, there are plenty of pitfalls to watch out for as well. If you’re thinking about making a drastic career change, you’d be wise to do your homework and proceed with caution.

One common mistake people make when embarking on a new career is selling themselves short. In your excitement, haste, or perhaps even desperation to try something new, resist the temptation to completely abandon your past. After years of building an impressive resume and gaining knowledge and expertise in your current field, it is important to ensure that you will be able to apply your valuable skills to your new position. Never underestimate yourself. When changing careers, you should be unwilling to settle for anything less than a lateral move, and this can be accomplished through the identification of transferable skills, of which there are many in the healthcare field.

Skills That Transfer Well to Healthcare Careers

Due to the wide-ranging skills utilized in the medical profession, this type of career can be lucrative for employees with many different backgrounds. Following are just a few of the common strengths, skills, and characteristics that are relevant and readily transferable to a job in healthcare:

– Sound judgment and professionalism – Because you will be working closely with patients and have access to their personal and confidential information, you’ll need to earn their trust through a professional yet friendly demeanor. You’ll also have to take responsibility for your actions and be prepared to justify them to others. As such, tact and discretion are vital.

– Excellent communication skills – In addition to being a careful listener with a keen eye for non-verbal cues, you’ll need to be able to explain complex concepts clearly to patients and family members who will often be upset and distracted. You’ll also be required to create accurate and concise documentation for your colleagues.

– Compassion and empathy – As a healthcare professional, you’ll need to connect with your patients, understand what they’re experiencing, and make them feel safe and cared for. You’ll be required to focus on their needs and desires and determine how to help them achieve the best possible outcomes.

– Grace under pressure – A healthcare job is often chaotic with high stakes, so you’ll need to be able to handle – and perhaps even enjoy – a fast-paced, stressful environment. Typically, in the medical profession, time is of the essence, so you must be able to multi-task, prioritize, and think clearly on your feet in many situations that are truly life-or-death.

Showcase Your Transferable Skills for Potential Employers

Once you’ve performed a self-assessment and identified attributes that you can transfer to a new position, you’ll need to catch the eye of your potential employer. One way to do so is to read the job posting carefully and identify key words and phrases that relate to the skills you want to highlight, and then include those words in your resume, cover letter, or job application.

After you land an interview, take advantage of the opportunities presented by open-ended questions. Refer back to those key words and phrases in the job posting and incorporate them into thoughtful answers. Describe your previous occupations, education, volunteer work, and general life experiences and illustrate how you gained the skills and strengths that will make you successful in this new position. Astute hiring managers know that if candidates have exhibited certain behaviors and performed well in the past, they’re likely to do so again – even within a completely different context.

Remember, when pursuing a new line of work, don’t risk losing everything you’ve worked so hard to achieve. Instead, consider your career move with care, and choose a path that not only interests you, but also allows you to build upon your existing strengths and knowledge base.

Taylor Thomas is an experienced writer who has written for a number of notable publications. As a lifestyle expert, Mr. Thomas is able to offer advice and insight on a multitude of topics, including those pertaining to healthcare careers.

Taylor Thomas is an experienced writer who has written for a number of notable publications. As a lifestyle expert, Mr. Thomas is able to offer advice and insight on a multitude of topics, including those pertaining to healthcare careers. https://careers-lsi.icims.com/jobs/intro?hashed=0

Author Bio: Taylor Thomas is an experienced writer who has written for a number of notable publications. As a lifestyle expert, Mr. Thomas is able to offer advice and insight on a multitude of topics, including those pertaining to healthcare careers.

Category: Career
Keywords: healthcare careers