Whether you are just entering the field or have years of experience, you want to be as marketable as possible. In some instances, competition for jobs can be tough. You need to stand out from the crowd. Even if jobs in your area are plentiful, finding ways to boost your skills may increase salary and your chances of advancement. Consider some of the following suggestions to enhance your marketability and sharpen your skills.

Become certified: Currently, certification is not necessarily mandatory to work as an assistant. Most employers prefer to hire someone who has earned certification. As regulations evolve, insurance companies are establishing standards for assistants and other Unlicensed Assistive Personnel. For example, Certified Nursing Assistants must be certified within the State where they are working, Medical Assistants must be credentialed to enter physician orders into systems, such as the Computerized Physician Order Entry.

Continue your education: Medical assistant programs typically take one to two years to complete. Where a Certified Nursing Assistant program can range from a few weeks to a few months. If you completed a program, consider taking additional classes to earn your associate degree. Earning an associate degree may help you move into a supervisory position, such as an office manager or Senior CNA. If you are interested in working as an educator in a program, you will likely need an associate degree or other additional education.

Obtain additional skills: Cross train and seek out additional skills to increase your chances of getting hired. Depending on the setting you want to work, earning specific certifications may give you the edge. For example, if you want to work in a clinic or urgent care, certification or training in phlebotomy or as an EKG technician may be helpful.  Cross training in medical coding may also be helpful to increase your marketability.

Consider specializing: If you find a niche you enjoy, specializing in a certain type of medical assisting may be a good way to beat out the competition. For instance, Medical Assistants may work in certain areas, such as ophthalmology, podiatry and chiropractic care.  Certified Nursing Assistants have options available beyond the Long Term Care center and have entered other areas not typically populated with CNAs.

Second language: Not all skills need to involve the medical field. For example, speaking a second language can be invaluable. Being bilingual can increase your marketability in many fields including as a medical assistant. Certified Nursing Assistants, Medical Assistants and other Unlicensed Assistive Personnel who are bilingual are often in demand. Speaking a second language may also increase your earning potential.  Some offices give exclusive highly desired assignments to those that are bilingual.

Join a professional organization: Joining a professional association, such as the Southwestern Association of Certified Nursing Assistants, LLC can enhance your qualifications. Being a member of a professional organization shows your commitment to the field. Membership can also provide you exposure to other members and the Best Jobs area of our members only section that lets you know from other members where the best jobs are of if a particular DON is respectful of your qualifications.

Update your resume: Your resume may be your first chance to introduce yourself to a potential employer. As the saying goes, “You only get one chance to make a good first impression.” If your resume does not showcase your skills and abilities, it may get passed over. Make sure your resume is easy to scan and highlights all the skills you have for the specific job you are applying. Your resume should be polished and professional looking. If resume writing is not your strength, there are plenty of resources to help you out, including our professional review available to members. Consider using an online template, visit a local career center or hire a professional resume writer or see if your school makes these types of services available.

Let us know your questions and what you do to increase your marketability.  Also, let us know if there are any topics you would like to hear about in our blog, maybe we will include it in an upcoming post.

Posted in Southwestern Association of Certified Nursing Assistants