Infuse Infuse 1 September 2017 | Page 33

So if you’re currently studying,
graduation is closer than you think, and you’re still a bit fuzzy
on where to go next (and how to get there)...
... here are six hot tips I picked up along my own journey
that helped me land a job – and a life – that I love:
1
Find your WHY.
Your WHY is the reason you want to be a dietitian -- the thing that
keeps you going every day, and the uniqueness that you bring to
the profession. Credit goes to my mentors, who made me realise
the power of discovering your WHY.
Take the road less travelled.
3
You will quickly learn that there are
novel ways of approaching dietetics,
and countless opportunities
to upskill. Have a look at what
other dietitians, or even health
professionals, are doing, and it will
become evident where opportunities
lies – and where you might be able
to make a unique difference.
Write your own ticket.
4
I was once told that if you cannot find a job,
consider making your own job. Given that
nutrition is constantly evolving and is a key component
in many domains of life, the magic happens when you
think outside the box and translate your work to novel
areas. From industry positions to communications,
and of course the traditional positions in hospitals and
clinics, the possibilities in dietetics are endless.
5
Be prepared to do
a less-desirable job.
Connect with
dietitians
who inspire.
I was once told that you should have
numerous additional mentors, in addition
to your “official” mentor for APD status. I
now understand how helpful this really is!
Your mentors are there to provide insight,
challenge you, brainstorm with you and even
learn from you (it’s a two-way street). With
the explosion of social media, it’s easier to
connect with other dietitians – especially those
in niches you are passionate about -- and then
approach them. LinkedIn is amazing for this
purpose. (Surely you’re on LinkedIn by now!)
The inspiration you can gain from those who
love their work is worth its weight in gold.
Sometimes we have to do “grunt work” in
order to show a potential employer our
skill set, our uniqueness and our potential.
The beginning of a new job or internship
may involve tasks like marketing or writing,
rather than direct patient/ client care, but this
often opens doors to further opportunities.
Remember your WHY and bring positive
energy to each situation; you will get to
where you want to be.
© Dietitian Connection
33
2
6

Consider starting
your own business.
Entrepreneurship is an amazing
opportunity for both personal and
professional growth. Be prepared to
learn about business and technology,
embrace the learning curve and to
bounce ideas around with others in the
industry. But please consider getting
a mentor to learn from, or a business
coach. There are more new graduates
starting their own businesses; it takes
time, but if you do it with passion and
pride, you will gain momentum.
Infuse | September 2017