How to Get The Job After You Finish Medical Billing Training
Graduation is near. Have you thought about what your next steps will be? You’ve already put in countless hours with your nose in books, typing diligently at your keyboard and attending classes. As your medical billing training draws to a close, your future is wide open. Although you’ve certainly earned a break from all the studying, now’s not the time to slack off. Obtain your dream job by pursuing potential employers in the same way you pursued your certifications.
Pre-Graduation
A proactive approach within today’s job market is practically a necessity. Before you even get your hands on your degree, you should be reaching out for internships. Ideally, you’ll land an internship at a company that can offer you a real job in the future. If that’s not the case, however, an internship still gives you valuable, on-the-job training that will shine on your resume. When interview time rolls around, you’ll have an edge over other candidates and will impress potential employers with real-life knowledge and skills you’ve already been applying.
Post-Graduation Job Search
Searching for a job in a competitive market can be tricky. There are numerous online job search engines that can provide valuable leads. Try posting your resume on websites like monster.com or indeed.com. You can also search your specific geographic area for medical billing jobs within those sites. Alternatively, you can check all of the hospitals and medical centers in your area for potential openings. Find out who does the hiring and send a resume and cover letter expressing an interest in any future positions. You might also consider scheduling a sit-down meeting with potential employers just to let them know your experience, skills and level of interest in a position with them.
Attracting Potential Employers
Making a good impression on employers requires a well-rounded applicant. The way you present yourself, your skills and your experiences can put you in the running with top candidates. Employers will consider your complete “package:” Your resume, references, personal appearance, interactions and conversations with you and how you perform during the interview. Make the best impression possible by preparing ahead as much as possible.
Communication: Good communication skills are important when trying to stand-out with employers. Present yourself professionally by speaking concisely, dressing appropriately and avoiding overly casual gestures or comments. Offer a firm handshake, make eye contact when speaking, smile and be prepared to talk about your skills, knowledge and accomplishments that make you ideal for the job.
Resume: Highlight your skills, knowledge and experience as concisely as possible, keeping the resume to one page if possible. Place the most relevant information prominently. Avoid wordiness and fancy fonts that distract from the overall content of the resume. Display contact information at the top, and remember to include updated names and numbers of references.
References: Ask former employers, former instructors in medical billing training, or mentors to be a reference for you if you have had a positive experience with them. Although it’s best to ask them face-to-face, if that’s not possible you can ask them over the phone or by email. Ask them to type a letter that you can include with your resume. Getting a job after graduation is no easy task, but there are several strategies you can use to put your best foot forward.
