Career planning is an essential skill for any MSP, and is a key driver of execution in TMG’s EMSP Core Competency Model. Understanding our career options, developing a plan, and implementing that plan enable us to find right-fit positions that align with our priorities and values. Here are 10 career planning tips that will help you excel in your role and achieve long-term success.
1. Understand Your Role
To plan a successful career as an MSP, it’s essential to have a deep understanding of your role and responsibilities. Understanding the intricacies of each of your tasks is vital, but so is the big picture. Think about the ways in which your responsibilities fit into your department’s functions, your organization’s ability to provide care, and the healthcare ecosystem more broadly. This knowledge will help you identify potential areas of specialization and interests you may have in roles that are adjacent to yours.
2. Invest in Education and Certification
Ongoing education and certification can significantly enhance your career prospects. Certification programs validate your expertise and demonstrate your commitment to the profession. Pursuing such certifications can open doors to higher-paying and more specialized positions. Other types of professional development demonstrate your curiosity and dedication to lifelong learning, which positions you to be noticed when opportunities for advancement arise.
3. Network and Stay Informed
Building a strong professional network is crucial in any industry, and medical staff services is no exception. Attend industry conferences and webinars, join professional associations, and engage in online forums or social media groups dedicated to MSPs. These connections can provide valuable insights, job opportunities, and mentorship. Staying informed about industry trends, regulatory changes, and best practices is equally important.
4. Keep Your Resume Up-to-Date
In the fast-paced world of medical staff services, opportunities can arise unexpectedly. To be prepared for these opportunities, keep your resume updated with your latest achievements, certifications, and experiences. This way, you can quickly respond to job openings or promotions within or outside of your organization, ensuring you’re always ready to take the next step in your career.
5. Seek Career Advancement Opportunities
As an MSP, you should always be on the lookout for opportunities to advance your career. Consider taking on additional responsibilities or seeking leadership roles within your organization. Advancement may involve managing a team of MSPs, overseeing larger projects, or even moving into roles related to healthcare compliance or administration.
6. Develop Strong Organizational and Communication Skills
Effective organizational and communication skills are paramount for MSPs. Our responsibilities require attention to detail and the ability to communicate with various stakeholders, including healthcare providers, legal teams, and regulatory agencies. Developing these skills will not only help you excel in your current role but also prepare you for future leadership positions.
7. Embrace Technology
The healthcare industry is continuously evolving, and technology plays a significant role in streamlining administrative tasks. Familiarize yourself with software and systems used in your departmental operations. Being tech-savvy can make you a valuable asset to your organization and open up opportunities to work on process improvement projects.
8. Stay Committed to Compliance
Compliance with healthcare regulations is non-negotiable. MSPs must stay up-to-date with the latest regulations and ensure their organizations remain compliant. This commitment to compliance is not only essential for patient safety but also for protecting your career.
9. Seek Feedback and Continuous Improvement
Feedback is a valuable tool for personal and professional growth. Actively seek feedback from colleagues, supervisors, and mentors to identify areas where you can improve. Be open to constructive criticism and use it as a guide for continuous self-improvement.
10. Consider Specialization
Within the field of medical services, there are opportunities for specialization. Whether it’s focusing on a healthcare quality, diving deeper into compliance, or specializing in a particular healthcare sector (e.g., hospitals, outpatient clinics), choosing a specialization can enhance your expertise and career prospects.
TMG provides a number of educational opportunities that can pave the way for career advancement, including the Career Rocket webinar series and TMG University courses.