Getting a Job After Graduating as a CMA Without Experience

After completing your training program to become a certified medical assistant (CMA), you may be wondering how to get a job after graduation when you don’t have any experience. This is a common feeling experienced by most graduates when starting out in a new career. The main thing to keep in mind is you’re headed in the right direction with resilience and consistency. 

If you’re finding it difficult to secure a job after graduation due to lack of experience, it’s time to get creative in the way you approach things. You’ve got to invest a little time in your application process, to ensure the version of yourself you’re presenting is the best version for the role you’re applying for.

Volunteer 

One major opportunity is to volunteer while still training to become a medical assistant. Volunteer at a hospital or long-term care facility, as they are often short staffed and would welcome the extra help. This is a perfect way to gain experience but to also connect with people who could write you a recommendation letter that may lead to a job. Sign up for classes for networking potential. Any career related volunteer work you complete while still in training is an excellent opportunity to network, get recommendations, and gain experience that could potentially result in landing a job after graduation. 

Soft Skills

When writing your resume and applying for jobs, it’s important to identify the skills you succeed in so you can accentuate them. After graduating from a medical assisting program, you should have a wealth of skills to take stock of, including medical terminology, patient etiquette, using electronic health records, performing administrative and clinical tasks and more. In addition to technical skills, it’s crucial to highlight your soft skills which are equally valuable to an employer. For example, listing qualities that CMAs commonly utilize on the job like empathy, multi-tasking, being a team player, strong communication skills, and excellent organization skills, etc., are all vital skills to have in the healthcare field. A potential employer will take notice of soft skills on your application or resume. 

Networking

Ignoring the power of social media to network would be a mistake. In today’s digital world, most organizations post job openings on their websites and various online platforms. You may be surprised by opportunities that come your way while searching online. You can also network in person by asking your classmates where they work or if they know of any places hiring CMAs. Many healthcare facilities often hire more than one position so take advantage of any information your classmates or professors may have. Professors often know where their former students have been hired in the past, so use their knowledge to your advantage. 

Use Job Demand to Your Advantage 

Certified medical assistants are in such high demand across the country that jobs are everywhere you look. As the baby boomer population ages, the healthcare industry advances, and rising chronic disease rates increase, the need for qualified CMAs continues to grow. The demand for CMAs is expected to remain high through the year 2030, so take advantage of the opportunities that come with a career field that’s in high demand. 

Obtain the Best Training 

Acquiring the right skills and training you need are key to succeeding in this rewarding profession. The Clinical Medical Assistant Program at Athena Career Academy is designed to teach students the skills necessary for employment in a modern medical facility. Contact us for more details on how to get started on your path towards becoming a medical assistant.