Motivation of Sucess
How can we continue to motivate students if jobs are not readily available?
This is a major question in the already over populated city of Atlanta. With an increase in skilled workers both seasoned and new available jobs are at its minimum. I encourage students by addressing soft skills that will help them during the interview process, I encourage credentialing (taking board exams) as soon as possible and I motivate them by encouraging continued search for jobs in and out of their current demographic area.
james,
Does the data support there are no jobs? In the meantime focus students on the objectives of the program.
Ron Hansen, Ed. D.
The data does not. However, there are a number of dental offices that are downsizing due to the economy. I have also noticed a decrease in patient scheduling. I do not relate this to my students because I do not want to discourage them from pursuing their dream job.
This is a wonderful question that I'd like a few more answers to as we, in Jacksonville,FL, face a soon-to-be over-saturated area of medical students. Currently, students in my field are able to find a part-time, "as needed" position in the area, but often, must seek outside of the local area to find a full time, permanent position.
Although it is difficult to keep students motivated, I find that highlighting the positives of our program and noting what sets us apart from other programs, thus far, has helped tremendously in keeping students motivated to continue in their current studies.
james,
The economy always has cycles. Perhaps this is one of these.
Ron Hansen, Ed. D.
jessica,
Placing an emphasis on Soft Skills is a big plus. It can make all the difference.
Ron Hansen, Ed. D.
Katrina,
Do you have local job numbers that show this is a problem? If so, how is it being addressed?
Ron Hansen, Ed. D.
i hope your right ...since 2008 i havent seen any improvement
The data does not. However, there are a number of dental offices that are downsizing due to the economy. I have also noticed a decrease in patient scheduling. I do not relate this to my students because I do not want to discourage them from pursuing their dream job.
Reply
Rejandra,
A tricky situation. It might be wise to ask your Career Services department how to address this situation. There could be a proper way to let students know what is going on without letting them despair.
Ron Hansen, Ed. D.
This is an interesting discussion and leads to many teaching opportunities for students:
1. That in order to be successful in any field/industry, one must continue to improve one’s skills & continue to learn what is needed for the job/career.
2. It is important to determine what you can do to set yourself apart from other candidates who may be going after limited positions.
3. The importance of networking so that when positions are available, you are on top of the list.
I have worked with students who went to extern sites and were told at the beginning of their experience that there were no openings. However, that did not deter the students and they showed strong work ethic and made a positive impression on those they worked with at the sites. The doctor, or others in charge, then did what they could to create a position and hire the students upon graduation!
I have also had students do a great job at their extern sites and receive recommendations from the externship employees. The students were then directed towards other offices that were hiring, and because of the connection their extern site had with these offices, the students were put high on the list of candidates to hire.
It is amazing what opportunities are available if one can prove that they have the skills and training to be successful and carry a strong work ethic that encourages the “powers that be†to give the person a chance.
Corey,
Thank you for your detailed post.
Ron Hansen, Ed. D.
agreed, we teach and require/remind students that good hand shake, eye contact, hygiene, and a timely thankyou note after interviews, can make all the difference. We have also found that job fairs are mini-interviews that are highly effective.
Kathryn,
Interestingly, most employers find the technical skills to be secondary to the professional and interpersonal skills.
Ron Hansen, Ed. D.
I teach at an automotive school. Sometimes if the technician jobs are not available the student can always apply as a service writer, auto claims adjuster, fork lift technician, etc. They can use their degree in other jobs outside of the conventional field.
Ted,
Of course we do want the job to be in their chosen field.
Ron Hansen, Ed. D.
Yes, we must be able to continue to motivate and come up with solutions.
