How Can I Get My Career As A Tech Back?

by Cassey
(Spokane, Washington, USA)

I have been licensed as a pharmacy technician since 1994, and received my Cpht status in 2005. I went through a rough patch about 2 yrs ago due to divorce, was terminated from my last job as an IV Tech in the only hospital in my town. I've been unemployed almost a year now, and took some time to regroup and put things back together, but now I am aggressively seeking employment. Why pick me when there are so many others to choose from who have been working more recently? I am desperate to find work in this field any advice would be great.

Answer:
You are in a tough spot, Cassey. Hang in there. By "aggressively seeking employment" it sounds like you are doing the right thing. Getting your resume out there, calling hospitals near you (or maybe not so near you), job searching online- you are probably doing all this. I am not sure how you feel about this, but maybe you need to move? Maybe there would be more opportunities in a different area. However, I wouldn't move unless you have a job lined up or have some savings to tide you over until you do.

I went through a job loss about 2 1/2 years ago. I had gotten a job in the midwest, moved out there and then less than three months after starting the job I was terminated. It is an awful feeling and it was definitely a rough patch.

Employers want to hire you because you know your stuff. You are certified and that says a lot about how you take your career seriously and were/are willing to study and sit for the test and keep up with your CE's all this time. You may not be as "sharp" as an employed tech, but maybe you are. There may be an employer looking to fill a hospital IV position that is the perfect fit for you. Continue to be persistent and aggressive in your job search. Take a look-if you haven't already at my page on Job Interviewing. I have other pages on this site about resumes and cover letters that you may want to brush up on. Maybe you will find something on those pages that you haven't thought of or overlooked. I hope they will be helpful to you.

I appreciate your question, and I am sure there are many others out there in similar situations. Keep us updated, and Good Luck!