Learn
More

Discover UCI’s Top 10 Tips To Advance Your Career

Have you wanted to further your career but aren’t sure how to get started? United Career Institute has ten tips to help you advance! 

Advance your career

1. Developing Your Skillset

If you want to advance your career, a great first step is to assess what skills you already have and then determine the skills you need to move forward in your field. Once you know what skills you’ll need, you must choose a training program that will equip you with them. For example, let’s say you want to become a medical coder and need to develop your knowledge in advanced medical codes. UCI Online’s medical coding training program utilizes lectures and virtual simulations to develop medical coding skillsets. 

2. Growing Your Network

A solid professional network can give you a significant advantage when furthering your career. You can utilize those in your network to provide references for potential employers, be notified of openings within the field, and more. A solid online presence on professional websites such as LinkedIn can help you build your network. As you take steps to advance your career, be sure to create a professional LinkedIn profile if you do not already have one, and connect with those you have worked closely with. 

3. Utilize Mentorship

Mentorship can be a powerful tool for advancing your career. Connecting with and learning from a professional already established in your desired field can help you gain insight into the industry and provide you with a valuable reference when looking for a position. 

4. Earn Industry Certifications

An industry certification* can give you a competitive edge in the hiring process, showing that you possess the necessary skills to do the job safely and correctly. Many healthcare professions require or recommend certification to become employed. For example, in Pennsylvania, medical assistants are not required to be certified, but many employers prefer to hire those with a National Healthcareer Association certification. 

5. Develop Communication Skills

A well-rounded set of skills can greatly benefit you when taking the next step in your career. Soft skills, such as communication, should be included in these skills. Being a strong communicator can be helpful in personal and professional settings. Check out our blog for tips on how to improve communication skills!

6. Embrace Leadership Opportunities

Advancing your career can often require moving into leadership roles. While this change can seem intimidating to some, it can be an excellent opportunity to expand your knowledge in your field. Evolving into a leadership role is a natural next step in your career and can require preparation. You can set yourself up for a successful career by being open to leadership opportunities. 

7. Be Adaptable

The healthcare industry is constantly evolving, and professionals must be able to adapt to the changes. By being adaptable and resilient, you can navigate uncertainty, overcome obstacles, and learn new skills as you advance your career.

8. Maintain Work-Life Balance

The healthcare field can be emotionally and physically demanding, so it is important for medical professionals to prioritize work-life balance. Setting boundaries, taking regular breaks, self-care, and seeking support are all ways to maintain a healthy work-life balance and prevent burnout. A positive work-life balance can also promote career satisfaction as individuals advance in their careers. 

9. Set Clear Goals

Setting clear and achievable goals can help you develop a roadmap along your career journey. Following the SMART method can help you define short-term and long-term goals aligning with your professional aspirations and values. 

10. Stay Up-To-Date

Staying informed on industry trends, developments, and challenges can help you stay ahead of the curve and adapt to changes more effectively. Some ways to do this include subscribing to industry publications, following thought leaders on social media, and connecting with colleagues. 

Further Your Education At UCI Online!

United Career Institute’s online healthcare training programs provide you with the tools necessary to advance your career! Get started today by calling 866-UCIONLINE or requesting information

*Certification is contingent upon passing the corresponding industry certification exam.