So you're looking for your first big job...

School's almost out and you are ready for your reward.  Congratulations, you made it!

You have chosen one of the best fields out there too!  A recent US News and World Reports stated that with the current recession, the only two career fields that are untouched by today's economic downswing are health care and government.  

There are jobs in respiratory care, but that also comes with competition, so you need to put your best foot forward. Many of you have been networking during your clinical rotations and have landed your first job, which is great; however, did you get the best job you could? 

What I mean is compensation is surely a factor but how about the people you will be working with and for?  Will you be working for a great team, a leadership team with a vision, and a place for you to grow, and coworkers who will treat new grads with open arms and not "eat their young?" 

When you interview look for these things as you are looking for more than a job, you are looking for a good fit to your lifestyle!  If you have a chance meet and talk with the staff, look at the surroundings of the department-are they uplifting and positive?

Now, to help you out, here's one manager's suggestions on what we look for and what we have experienced that have turned us off to potential good hires.

For example, new grads, you're now in a profession, so dress for success. A shirt and tie, no jeans please!  Ladies, the smart manager is not looking for a fashion model so wear business attire.

Don't come to the interview empty handed. Have a resume even if it is short, and letters of recommendation are good-show us why we should hire you and not your classmate.  

Finally, take a moment and learn about the organization you are interviewing with. As managers we do get impressed when someone takes the time to learn about where they are applying. With the internet it only takes a moment to learn about the specialties of the facility and come with some questions. 

From the Director's Chair,

Scott

P.S. Managers, what would you tell a new grad before they interviewed with you, if you could?  How about some stories about interviews gone wrong?