By Debbie Bunch
July 15, 2024
Now that the late spring college graduation season is behind us, many newly minted RTs are settling into their first jobs in the profession. The early days in a new position can be tough for anyone, but for those just starting out it can be downright overwhelming at times.
And while things do get better, most new therapists can expect to stay in learning mode throughout their first year of employment. What can you do to ensure you not just get through it but use it to your best advantage? Here are six tips that can help you make the most of your first year on the job —
Acknowledge your “newbie” status: When you graduated from RT school you were one of the most experienced students in your program. But when you step into your first RT department, your new colleagues will only see inexperience on your face. Accept that you don’t know as much as you think you do, ask lots of questions, and take advantage of every learning opportunity that comes along.
Your work ethic matters: As a new staff member, probably the thing you will be judged on the most is your work ethic, so keep it strong. Be on time, provide high quality care to every patient, pay attention during staff meetings, and engage with your coworkers and earn their trust.
Step up when the time is right: One of the best ways to advance your career is to become the person who volunteers to take on additional assignments and responsibilities. Of course, you are new, so you have to pick and choose what you volunteer for. A committee charged with developing a new therapist-driven protocol in the ICU? No, that is not for you. Someone to reorganize the messy supply closet or break room? Raise your hand!
Keep it positive: Every RT department has some downsides and a few staff members who are happy to point them out to everyone who works there. These negative staff members are always on the lookout for new people to join their ranks and they may see you as a potential candidate. Don’t fall for it. Keep a positive attitude at all times — even in the face of a truly negative aspect of your new job. RT managers do not need more negativity in their departments, and they will greatly appreciate your ability to take difficult situations in stride.
Start building your professional network: Getting ahead in respiratory care is of course about establishing a good work ethic, gaining skills, and providing excellent care. But it is also about meeting the right people and establishing bonds with them that can last throughout your career. Become active in your state respiratory care society, join the AARC Specialty Sections that match your current and future goals, and look for mentors wherever you can find them.
Create and maintain a robust professional social media presence: Lastly, be sure to set up a LinkedIn account and keep it updated as you develop new skills, earn additional credentials, and take on new responsibilities at work. As an AARC member, you should also become acquainted with the networking opportunities available to you on AARConnect, especially if you are a member of one or more Specialty Sections. Each section has a dedicated discussion list where members can ask questions and get answers to the questions they have pertaining to the specialty area. Remember, you don’t have to work in the specialty to be a member of an AARC Specialty Section. All of the sections are open to all AARC members with an interest in the area.
