What to do?

Question

I'm currently an Occupational Therapy  Assistant/former Rehab Manager, who lost my job one week before COVID hit. Fortunately, I was able to withstand 90days of unemployment and come out on the other side unscathed financially as I had savings to get me by. I also decided during that time to go back to school and finally get my bachelor's degree, which should be completed summer 2021. I recently went back to work (1 week ago) at a nursing home & I HATE IT!...smh. Most of my experience lies in skilled care & I've managed for the last 10 years, so to be back in a non-managerial capacity is killing me. On top of the fact that I was ready to change aspects of my career anyway (I no longer want to be a hands on clinician), and the restrictions on how we provide care, I'm ready to quit. I really want to move in a more operational or administrative direction in healthcare, but all the jobs I've been seeing requires the bachelor's degree that I currently dont have. How can I possibly transition my career during these trying times?...I really want out of the hands on clinical role I'm in now. Can anyone offer any assistance for me in how I should go about this transition?

Sami MacKay · Answer

I’m going to offer a bit of different advice here. If you are actively pursuing the degree, reflect that in your resume. Also, if you no longer want to be hands in as a clinician, think outside the box. What about a business analyst role? Or quality improvement? All within the realm of using your experience as a foundation for the next chapter. If you’re hesitant about something like the business analyst role, take an online course in that first, then finish the degree. Many large institutions offer tuition reimbursement. It can be done. I know someone who is Director level in clinical research without a bachelors yet. Good Luck!

LISA MCCARTNEY · Answer

I agree with Sami.  Only I would take it a step further....  You've had some managerial experience, highlight that to how it can be an asset in new role.  You have the hands on knowledge that someone who's just fresh out of school doesn't have.

Jillian Post · Answer

Sorry, but perseverance is really your only way through it. Most of us are right there with ya. Stay in school, do whatever work you must to keep your head above water.

Lynne Cogan · Answer

Frequently, the list of qualifications/requirements for a job is a wish list. It is possible to get interviews with only 70 percent of the requirements. Men apply for jobs where they don't have all the qualifications on a regular basis. Far fewer women do.

But don't stop there. Research and network.

Before applying for jobs, know where you want to work and what you want to do.  Research these companies thoroughly. Know their goals and problems. Know how you can help them achieve those goals and solve those problems. Know how you can help them improve their bottom line (more important than ever before) by either making or saving them money.

Network into those companies. Have informational interviews with employees and former employees to learn more about the company. Someone might even be willing to refer you. (Often employers provide employees with nice bonuses for referrals who are hired. So it is a win for the referral source, too.)

Then apply. You can apply even if there aren't any openings. If you can make them considerably more money than you cost, you have a good chance of getting the job.

Now, you barely started your current job. If you get a new one fairly quickly, then, you don't even have to include the current job on your resume, which is a marketing rather than a legal document. You might have to include it on an application, because it is a legal document.

Katie Henderson Ladyboss752675 · Answer

Something to consider: I understand you hate your job, but are you doing a tremendous amount of good helping people who are often forgotten and lonely? I have spent lots of time in nursing homes. I know how great the need is for caregivers who are sincerely compassionate. With your experience and maturity, you could be an inspiration and an example for other caregivers. Time spent serving others is always rewarded, IMHO, though it can be quite painful. I do wish you success, and commend you for completing your education. Best of luck, my dear.

garbo · Answer

Have you tried the career resource center and alumni network at the school where you’re getting your degree?  If they have the major, they probably have at least a few connections that can help you.   Seek out all the free help they can give you, informational interviews at the least which sometimes can lead to offers.

Becky Pohlmann Throneberry · Answer

Join the non-clinical networking for rehab professionals groups on Facebook and LinkedIn. I’m an OT who recently transitioned from patient care to a non-clinical role and this was a great resource for me.  There is a wealth of information to be shared among like-minded individuals here. Best of luck!

Jocelyn Irle · Answer

I agree with Lpmcartney and Sami!  Your experience managing is amazing, that gives you a leg up on the competition. I would put your bachelor's degree on your resume with your expected graduation month. I understand why people are saying 'tough it out for 1 more year.' The job market is rough right now, and finding a new job may not be easy.  But I know what it's like to be in a job that sucks away your motivation, and getting up in the morning makes your heart hurt. If you truly hate your job,  you don't have to tough it out. First I would look for opportunities at your current work place. I would talk to management and explain your situation. They might be able to find a position for you. It's worth asking. =)

sschulman · Answer

Stay the course!  You'll graduate in one year and then have so many more options with your bachelor's degree.  Make a list of experiences that you'd like to have on your future resume and try to gain those experiences in your current job.  Do the very best you can with this current employer so that they will be a great reference for you in the future.  Also, I highly recommend the book You Are A Badass by Jen Sincero...it will help you feel grounded and guided in your journey.  Good luck!

Anonymous · Answer

I can relate -- I had a lot of jobs that I just didn't like and desperately wanted out. I think in your case because you're so close to graduation, keep your eyes on the prize by finishing your coursework. That said, keeping your eyes open for opportunities that you may be qualified for and networking are great strategies for getting you your next job that you'll like better. The last thing I'll say is when you are in a role that you don't enjoy and can't move right away, try your best to leave work at work -- coming up with some sort of ritual to switch from work brain to home brain, be it a walk, turning off all notifications, or even just stepping away from computers and unplugging for a bit, can help you to enjoy the time you're not at work much more. That was something that took me years to learn and I've found doing this made me persevere even more. Best of luck to you!

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