Finding Your Fit

For those of us who have worked hard and successfully in the health care industry, opportunity often allows us to move forward up the chain of command.   Some navigate these changes and find a home in their new position, while others may end up feeling adrift and realize that their new job is just not the right fit.  Sometimes, we are motivated by the money, sometimes just the flattery that accompanies advancement is enough to induce us to move forward in our careers.  What should motivate us, make us stay in our new jobs, or admit that moving on was a mistake? 

The biggest falsehood in any career move is believing the adage that what one man can do - another can do just as well.  The fact that we have been noticed and appreciated for our work ethic does not necessarily mean that we can make a smooth and happy transition to any job description.  In order to assess our chances for satisfaction, it is necessary to make an honest appraisal of our skills and to understand where our motivation lies when it comes to career choices.

Many individuals report to work each and every day for no other reason than their weekly paycheck.  There is noting wrong with having the sole motivation to satisfy our financial obligations, and indeed how many of us would continue the grind of the work week if we suddenly won Lotto?  If you find that this describes your attitude toward work, then as long as you do your best each day, you should accept that climbing the ladder of success may not be for you. 

First and foremost, all of us should take an honest appraisal of our skills.  If paperwork drives you absolutely mad and sitting behind a desk for eight hours is akin to water torture, you probably should not think about taking an administrative position.  The money may be great and initially your ego may be flattered, but eventually you will find yourself bogged down by your responsibilities and your job satisfaction will continue to decline.  This is especially true if you have spent a large portion of your career at the bedside or engaging in some form of direct patient care.  Although difficult, many health care professionals who have moved into administration find that they pine for the days of one to one contact with patients.

Secondly, you should always consider your training before you accept any position.  What skills have you honed in your career?  Are your skills transferable to a new role in health care?  What is the learning curve?  

Most of us expect that we will have a mentor to aid us in our new roles, but without essential skills in place we may still flounder.  Our mentors may also be struggling, especially since health care is ever changing the way we process information and patients, so daily access to those who can make our transitions smoother may not be readily available.  Successful transitions involve the ability to customize our new positions so that they reflect our strengths.  Trying to make an exact fit into the existing job description will not allow for growth and positive change.   Claim the playing field as your own and use your essential skills to individualize your position, so that you and your new opportunity will be seen and appreciated as one entity.