Transitioning into Healthcare
by Christina Baron, PHR and Nerreda Hewitt 

ColorsNWCareers Job Seeker asked: "I am looking to transition to the healthcare field and am looking for an entry level position. After graduating college four years ago, I've been in property management but looking to break into healthcare. It has been difficult to even get an interview. What I'm wondering is how I go about this huge endeavor. Any advice would be greatly appreciated!"

Christina and Nerreda's answer:

Transitioning into any new industry can be tricky. It sounds like you are aware that you may need to start with a more entry level position to "break into healthcare." Here are some suggestions to help you with a strategic approach to your search.

1. Do your research via the Web.

The Internet can assist in your decision as to where you apply by providing a glimpse into healthcare organizational culture, history, and the overall mission. Virtual tours and testimonials provide a snapshot of the organization's values and ethics. Peruse employment postings for entry-level openings to review the qualifications, current trends, available opportunities and job descriptions for these types of positions. Community resources and state sponsored programs are often excellent resources for additional training opportunities.

2. Do a self-assessment.

Compare your current knowledge and skill set to the requirements listed in the employment postings. How familiar are you with the listed duties or responsibilities?

Sell those skills which are transferable regardless of industry, such as customer service, problem solving, communication, working in a fast paced work environment (healthcare is always fast paced!), attention to detail, team approach, strong work ethic, compassionate demeanor, etc. A drive to learn is also essential. We absolutely seek candidates for all of our positions with these kinds of skills. They are a must for success.

3. Be proactive.

You can improve your chances by going the extra mile to pick up relevant knowledge and experience, such as taking a class in medical terminology.

Volunteering is another great way to get experience working in healthcare. Most hospitals and large clinics have volunteer programs of some kind, which would allow you to list the experience on your resume, showing you are serious about spending time in this environment. For instance, if a position's qualifications require "previous experience in a patient care environment" you would get that experience. Volunteering is also very rewarding experience and may pay off in the long run with a job offer.

4. Try it out temporarily.

A temporary position allows you to experience working in the healthcare environment, even if it is just short term. There are many specialized healthcare staffing agencies that might be able to place you. Sometimes temporary employees are such a good fit, the hiring managers decide to keep them on long-term. The experience may also give you the time to find out if you really truly enjoy working in a healthcare environment.

5. Be realistic.

There are many things to consider when seeking a career change. You'll likely be faced with entry level salary, as you need to gain experience before advancing in your chosen field. You may have to work part-time while taking classes. How receptive are you to learning and to starting over again? Are you willing to commit time and money to gain knowledge and experience, whether it is in a lower-level position, or in a classroom?

Other things to keep in mind as you research your options:

• What's important to you in an organization?
   

• What specific areas are of interest to you in the health care field?

6. Meet with employers.

After all, this was what you were really asking, right - how to get an interview? There are ways to get face to face with human resources staff. Ask employers if informational interviews are an option. This allows candidates to meet with recruiters to discuss some of the above points, as well as determine whether the organization is truly a good match for their own goals and interests. You may also be able to set up a job shadowing opportunity with someone currently doing the kind of work you are considering.

About Diversity at the Fred Hutchinson Cancer Research Center

Diversity is just a part of what the Center is about. We couldn't do our best work without the collaborations that occur between staff with different backgrounds. These differences make us stronger as a whole - one person's weakness is another's strength. On a daily basis, Nerreda and Christina exemplify this strategy in Human Resources' support.

""We have such a great team. It's our differences that challenge how we approach the gray areas, which makes HR work rewarding." Christina and Nerreda

Statement of Diversity:

"Our achievements and strengths are based on the contributions of all members. Therefore, we are committed to diversity in the broadest sense, including all races/ethnicities, genders, ages, national origins, physical abilities, sexual orientations and other personal characteristics, approaches, beliefs and backgrounds."

"Valuing diversity promotes creative and intellectual vigor, creates an environment in which everyone feels respect and acceptance, and increases our ability to serve our community by attracting and retaining the best possible people."

"Diversity is key to the pursuit of our mission."

Recruiter Bios:

Christina Baron, PHR
Christina is a graduate of Washington State University, where she graduated with a Social Sciences degree. She is a Human Resources Specialist/Recruiter for Fred Hutchinson and The Seattle Cancer Care Alliance. She has worked at the Center now for 10 years, 6 of which have been in Human Resources. She also has worked in healthcare for 16 years in different roles. Her expertise is in hiring clinical positions in both a healthcare and clinical research setting. She takes great pride in doing HR work because it is a challenge finding the very best talent to contribute to our mission.

Nerreda Hewitt
Nerreda is a Human Resources Specialist/Recruiter for Fred Hutchinson and The Seattle Cancer Care Alliance, and has eleven-plus years of experience in various industries, including management roles from Biotech to government (in Okinawa, Japan!). She serves on the Diversity Counsel at Fred Hutchinson, and is a multi-cultural learning group facilitator. Her personal philosophy is to always be cognizant of the human component in Human Resources. She is passionate about diversity and takes great pride in matching the best talent with the position.