Ok, so I am a student geting ready to graduate in a few months. I have already had several offers of employment but I don't quite know how to choose between one and the other. What are some things you should consider when choosing your first job? What are some factors you may have wished you had evaluated or some things you were glad you took into account when you got your first job?

Thanks,

Nick

First of all, don't be swayed by money and sign-on bonuses.  Those are great ways for you to overlook some of the downfalls of the facility.  I'd check out if the facility has senior OT mentoring, are there good programs in place (fall prevention, social work to assist with d/c planning), are responsibilities delegated among different disciplines (i.e., to avoid burnout, does the facility offer different leadership roles to help the rehab staff run smoothly), staff/client ratio...  If you tell me the settings you are interested in I can give you more feedback.  Just remember to trust your gut.  I hope this helps you!

Alison

Look at the places that will allow you to use your talents and offer mentoring programs. Don't e swayed by money or sign on bonuses.

When you're evaluating offers for your first job, there are SO MANY things to consider. It can definitely be overwhelming. First, make sure the setting is of interest to you and make sure you've got experience in that setting. Definitely compare several offers and don't be afraid to say, "Can I think about your offer and get back with you?" Go to the facilities in person during your evaluation of offers. You will get a better picture of what a "typical day" really looks like. You should consider what each company offers with regards to insurance, how vacation days and sick days are accrued, how often you get paid, do they offer performance bonuses and how are they awarded, how many other OTs will you be working with and how many years of experience do they have, how many patients you will have on your caseload, if there is scheduled documentation time in your day, does the company pay for things such as state licensure, state OT assoc. fees, continuing ed. Also, see if the company offers mentor programs, which will support your transition into the clinic and help you grow out of the "new grad" phase. Ask how often the rehab department conducts staff meetings. It's nice to meet regularly and discuss office/business issues as well as professional issues such as evidence-based practice. These are all things that I would ask a new employer if I were looking for a new job now. Don't let people sway you from investigating the high-dollar jobs. If the job fits you, there's nothing wrong with taking the highest offer. You can find a job that fits you that pays well too. Don't let anyone accuse you of being motivated by money. You just spend a lot of money on your education, and you have a right to make a decent amount! As long as you love what you do, then go for the big bucks! Good luck and happy hunting.

I dont know if anyone here workd in peds but I am going to be looking for a job soon and i have some questions about what's going on with insurance for peds. I know the budget is getting cut for peds tx but how will this affect productivity? I dont know if this differs from state to state or clinic to clinic but i am worried about taking a job in peds with all the budget cuts. any advice?

Thanks! liz

Liz,

I work at a multi-site pedi clinic in Texas. I may be able to answer some of your questions. What are they? Our OT dept here is going strong.

HeatherS

Cole Therapy Center

I passed my exam last month. I finally figured out how to study for the exam. I can help you too.

Karen