Published on: 23 June 2021
Last Updated on: 03 January 2025
Making the decision to switch careers is a big one! It’s not a decision you should take lightly, which means you have probably spent a lot of time thinking it through and deciding where you want to work. But, once you have decided you want to make the switch, what comes next?
No matter what career you have decided to take on, it’s a good idea to improve your business and leadership skills. It’s a great way to build more confidence before you take on a brand-new role, and it shows prospective employers that you’re serious about making the switch and sticking with it.
A few ways you can work on your business and leadership skills include:
Sign up to see an expert speak on a topic you’re passionate about
Take a class online or in-person
Get a new certification or endorsement
Take on a new project at your existing job
Work on your communication skills
Practice your leadership skills outside of work
Volunteer
Just because you think you know what new field you want to get into doesn’t mean you’ll actually like it when you get there. As you’re working on your leadership skills, you should also look for ways to put your new skills into practice in your chosen field. The best way to do that is to volunteer.
Volunteering may not pay you any money, but it’s a great way for you to experience a new field. Not only can you learn more about the specific position you’re interested in, but you may also discover other positions within the same field that you never considered. Not to mention, it’s a great way to meet people who work in the field you’re interested in. They make great references, and you never know—one of them may be able to refer you to your dream job!
Create a Timeline
Just because you have decided you want to make a career change and you know what career you want doesn’t mean you know how to make it happen. It’s especially important to get realistic about exactly how much time it’s going to take to meet your goals.
It can take a long time to find a job, and it can take even longer if you’re switching careers. Create a timeline so you can break down the switch into manageable steps. You’ll want to include any classes, degrees, or endorsements you need to get first, set aside time to create a new resume, consider how many job applications you want to fill out every week, and more.
Although you may want to make the switch sooner rather than later, it is much better to create a timeline and go slowly. Make sure you save plenty of money throughout the process so you have funds to fall back on if things don’t go according to plan.
Focus on Your Boundaries
Making the switch to a new career isn’t something you can do overnight. While you wait it out at your existing job, it’s a good idea to focus on your professional boundaries.
Just because you think you will like your new career better doesn’t mean it’s better for your overall quality of life. Think about the kinds of boundaries you want to set to ensure the transition is successful, and give them a try at your existing job. Don’t reply to emails after a certain time every night, insist on taking all of your vacations, and work on communicating your needs more clearly, just to name a few.
Manage Professional Relationships
Just because you have one foot out the door at your current job doesn’t mean you should burn bridges there before you leave. You should work on maintaining your existing professional relationships while you build new relationships with people in your new field.
For example, you’ll want to tell your boss in person when you resign rather than doing it over email. Give your job 100 percent through your very last day, and make sure those you worked with know you’re thankful for the opportunity you had to learn and grow. You never know when those old connections could come in handy!
There’s a lot more work to be done when you decide you’re ready for a new career. Follow these tips and the switch will be as painless as possible.
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How to become a radiology tech? You can start your career by getting an associate degree in radiology.
However, if you get an advanced degree, you can qualify for leadership roles. Then, you must consider specializing in a radiology area. Moreover, you must earn a certification from ARRT if you want to get a state license.
In this article, you will learn about how to become a radiology tech and pursue a career in the field. This article also guides you through the factors you must consider as you prepare to become a radiology tech.
Finally, you will get a step-by-step guide on pursuing a career as a radiology tech. Hence, to learn more, read on to the end of the article.
How to Become a Radiology Tech? – A General Overview
Generally, a radiology tech performs important diagnostic imaging procedures. Also, they perform scans to get a better idea of a patient’s health condition. This helps radiologists and physicians better. If this job seems interesting to you, you must consider pursuing a career as a radiology tech.
However, you must understand the different requirements for becoming a radiology tech. This can help you successfully land a job at a reputed place.
A radiology tech is a healthcare professional who helps in finding out health issues with patients. If you become a radiology tech, you have to operate X-rays and other medical imaging tech to find out problems.
Moreover, you will have other duties as well. For instance, you might need to explain radiology procedures to patients and handle complex imaging machines. Moreover, you also need to ensure the compliance of safety protocols.
According to the US Bureau of Labor Survey, the average radiology tech salary is $73,410 (2023 data). Moreover, you will have better-earning potential with some radiology tech specializations like MRI scanning, nuclear medicine, radiation therapists, etc.
Radiology Tech Specializations
Once you pursue a career as a radiology tech, you must have one or more specializations.
Some specializations include:
Medical Imaging like X-rays, CT Scans, MRI, and mammography
Nuclear Medicine
To become a radiologist technician, you must complete a high school diploma and then pursue a radiology program. Then, after you choose your specialization, you must get a radiographer certification. After that, you can prepare your resume and then apply for jobs.
How To Become A Radiology Tech? – Factors To Consider
If you want a service in the healthcare industry and also want plenty of contact with patients, you will enjoy a career as a radiology tech. In fact, to start working, you just need an associate degree in radiology or a similar field.
However, if you want early success in this career, you must have an eye for detail. Also, having good math and technical skills will help you grow a lot. Apart from that, you need to show a compassionate outlook.
On the other hand, this is actually a physically demanding job. Apart from that, this field is constantly evolving. Hence, if you have more stamina than others and you can adapt to different conditions, you can succeed in this job.
The following are the major factors you must consider if you want to know how to become a radiology tech:
Radiology Tech Job Description
As a radiographer, you might practice radiography or specialize in different medical imaging techniques. Actually, you have to work with doctors and radiologists to produce images of patients’s organs.
The following are some of the major tasks you will need to do as a radiology tech:
Prepare patients for radiology tests. Also, you must explain the procedure to them and make them remove metal objects from their body.
Perform tests like X-ray exams, mammograms, MRI scans, etc.
Sometimes, you must review patient histories, doctor reports, charts, etc.
Position patients and align them with machines. Additionally, you must calibrate machines to accurately produce images.
Moreover, you must follow safety protocols and shielding devices. This way, you can save yourself, patients, and other coworkers from harmful radiation.
You must check the clarity of images and explain them to doctors in your team.
Since you know the correct procedure to use equipment, you need to sterilize and store imaging equipment accordingly.
You must control radiology tech equipment in such a way as to produce accurate images with enough density and detail.
Stay updated about radiation equipment and its safety measures. Also, you must learn how to use protection devices.
You must have basic information about state and federal regulations and the policies of medical institutions. This way, you can ensure compliance with those regulations and policies.
Radiology Technician (Xray Tech) Specializations
Here are the major specializations of a radiology tech out of which you need to choose yours:
X-rays
Computed tomography (CT)
Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI)
Sonography
Bone densitometry
Nuclear medicine
Vascular interventional radiography
Mammography
Cardiac-interventional radiography
Essential Qualifications And Education
To become a radiology tech, you can take different educational approaches. This is because there are several pathways to explore.
The following are some of the most popular options to consider:
🎓LXMO Certificates
You need almost a year to complete LXMO certificates. Basically, with the help of these certifications, you can quickly become a radiology tech. However, there are some drawbacks to consider.
For instance, if you have something less than an associate degree, you cannot earn an ARRT certificate. As a result, you will not qualify for a radiology tech license in some states.
🎓Associate Degrees
Generally, associate programs are for two years. Once you complete them, you can get a good exposure to radiology technology. Apart from that, these programs also include hands-on clinical experience and general education classes.
🎓Practitioner Certificates
A degree course takes a lot of time and effort. Hence, radiology tech expands their qualification by earning certificates with specializations. However, these certificates are for practicing individuals and not starters in the field.
🎓Bachelor’s Degree
A four-year degree in radiology technology will give you a deep dive into medical imaging. Also, you can develop a big picture in the radiology field. Also, you will gain various communication and analytical skills. Hence, you will be ready for managerial and supervisory roles.
🎓Master’s Degree
If you want to pursue further studies in the field of radiology technology, a Master’s Degree is the way forward. This will prepare you to pursue extensive knowledge in the subject. Also, you can be prepared for leadership and advanced practice. Moreover, you will have a chance to become a registered radiologist assistant.
How To Become A Radiology Tech? – Steps To Follow
To become a radiology tech, follow the steps below:
1. Pass a Diploma or an Equivalent Program
Here, you just need to earn a high school diploma or the GED test. Moreover, you will benefit from taking classes in the PCMB (Physics, Chemistry, Math, and Biology). Once you have a solid background in these subjects, you will have a better understanding of radiology and its technologies.
Moreover, you can consider volunteering at a healthcare center. This will help you understand the work environment.
2. Complete an Accredited Radiology Program
Many medical facilities and employers look for radiology tech with formal education and certification. Hence, you must pursue a hospital-based or college-based program with JRCERT accreditation.
Hence, you must consider getting a two-year associate degree in radiology tech. This will ensure you an entry-level position. However, for supervisory and administrative roles, you might need a Bachelor’s or a Master’s Degree.
After getting your specialization, you must complete your clinical training at a major hospital or a diagnostic center. This will help you to get placements after you complete your training.
3. Earn A Certification
To start working, you have to show a state board license along with an ARRT certification. However, to get this certification, you must have a Bachelor’s degree. Also, you must meet the ethical requirements of this certification.
Moreover, to maintain your certification, you must complete various continuing education courses in radiology and radiography. Furthermore, you can also choose advanced training as you complete the former.
4. Prepare Your Resume And Apply For Jobs
With the help of an effective resume, you can improve your chances of securing an interview. However, make sure you get tips on your resume from a professional. Additionally, ensure your resume is concise and has a professional summary of why you are the right person for the job.
Apart from that, your resume must also contain brief details about your skills, experience, and educational background. Moreover, you must also ensure that your resume is tailored to your job requirements.
Land Your Radiology Tech Job Now
You now know how to become a radiology tech. You have seen that these professionals perform multiple medical imaging procedures, CT scans, and X-rays.
However, as a radiology tech, you will be working with medical teams consisting of doctors, registered nurses, and other healthcare professionals. Hence, consider working on your communication skills.
Do you have more suggestions on how to become a radiology tech? Please share your ideas and opinions in the comments section below.
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Is consumer durables a good career path in 2021? How many jobs are available in consumer durables? If you are searching for these queries, you are reading the correct blog!
Choosing your career path in consumer durables can be your best decision because it is highly rewarding, and the future is truly bright.
Consumers take irregular career paths, and they regret the same in the long run. This is the reason why you need to be very focused and alert while choosing any career path. Some of the other top career paths can be precious metals, basic industries, energy utilities, public utilities, hotels/resorts, etc.
Consumer Durables - What You Need To Know?
Consumer durables are also known as durable goods or just durables, are a category of consumer goods that do not wear out instantly and thus, do not have to be bought frequently. These are known as “durable goods” as they tend to last for more than three years and are the opposite of consumer non-durables goods.
Hence, in a more simple term, commodities that are purchased repeatedly over a prolonged period are known as consumer durables.
Examples of consumer durable are toys, medical equipment, jewelry, sports equipment, furniture tools, consumer electronics, books, automobiles, and much more. Shoes and clothing are examples of semi-durable goods.
Is Consumer Durables A Good Career Path In 2021?
The answer to this question is Yes. Consumer durables are a good career path in 2021. Most of the durable consumer companies are operating at 100% production capacity.
Actually, consumer durables consist of particular features that set them apart from other consumption expenditure items. Besides, in the European System of Accounts, consumer durables are defined as durable goods utilized by many households.
This sector is in huge demand at present, and even non-consumer durables are a good career path and you should know this at the earliest.
How Many Jobs Are Available In Consumer Durables?
There are many jobs available in consumer durables, and you must be aware of the same if you are willing to grow your career in this field.
Now, let’s have a look at the best-paying jobs in consumer durables. The following data is derived from LinkedIn.
i). Category Manager
The Category Manager is responsible for determining the positioning of a product category.
Here, you need to increase visibility, partner with Supply Chain to place appropriate orders, build relationships with vendors, develop exit strategies, devise long-term development strategies, analyze data to consumer trends and the industry.
ii). Sales Operations Specialists
Sales Operations Specialists is one of the top jobs available in consumer durables. Here, you need to support all the stages of the sales cycle and provide high-quality support as a part of consumer services.
You need to maintain a clear process for the sales team, accurate data reporting dashboards, prepare sales documents, and also handle all CRM records, deals, and contacts with input from the sales team.
iii). Product Development Manager
To get the role of Product Manager, you must have a bachelor’s degree in Business or Marketing. At the same time, you must possess good communication and writing skills.
Besides, your main role will be managing pricing and promotions, utilize strong financial acumen, implement several activities and strategies, and build relationships with customers.
iv). Events Manager
The Events Manager works closely with corporate communications teams on activation opportunities and related events. You need to manage budgets and track all consumers.
Moreover, you need to identify opportunities for participation in key consumer events that will increase your exposure. At the same time, you need to build marketing initiatives via consumer-facing marketing activations.
v). Ecommerce Analysts
The Ecommerce Analysts are responsible for creating pathways to deliver profitable growth and annual revenue. You need to facilitate alignment across all eCommerce customers.
You need to manage all the eCommerce content testing roadmap for businesses, collaborate with marketing and product development, monitor trends in user behavior, and maintain a consistent flow of the work.
The Final Thoughts
Is consumer durables a good career path in 2021? Now, you know why it is regarded as a good career path among millennials in the USA and also other countries. You can grow your career in this particular field and acquired the skills that can be useful in other sectors as well.
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In actuality, orthodontists undergo specialized training that qualifies them as specialists in tooth straightening. They must complete two to three additional years of coursework. Then, they can become an orthodontist and obtain a certification in orthodontic care. Orthodontists treat a wide range of dental alignment problems, commonly referred to as "malocclusion." This comes after receiving their license and certification.
For patients of all ages, they employ precise clinical techniques to align teeth safely and effectively and create healthier dental structures. If you've ever received orthodontic treatment, you've probably seen the amazing outcomes these skilled medical practitioners help you achieve.
Even though becoming an orthodontist is a difficult, competitive, and costly career path, orthodontists benefit from high pay, excellent work-life balance, and a welcoming, social, teamwork-based environment.
Are you interested in this field? Do you want to know how long does it take to become an orthodontist? Keep reading to learn how to work in this area of medicine.
How Long Does It Take To Become An Orthodontist?
The study that goes into orthodontics is pretty massive, and it remains a lifelong process. Orthodontists take up a subject that costs an incredible sum but pays too well in the long run. If you are curious as to how long it takes to become an orthodontist, you are not alone.
Education And Training Requirements
In order to become an orthodontist, there are levels that need to be crossed. Here, we are discussing it in detail. This should give you an idea of how long it take to become an orthodontist.
Finish Dental School To Become Licensed
In order to become an orthodontist, one must first earn a doctorate in dentistry and obtain certification as a dentist. You must complete a bachelor's degree (though some colleges offer a combined degree program) in order to get admission to a dental school. You will also need a passing score on the Dental Admission Test (DAT).
Like medical schools, dental schools are extremely demanding and competitive. Additionally, they are expensive. Depending on the program, a dental school degree can cost anywhere from $150,000 to $300,000.
Fortunately, the majority of dental professionals discover that the expense of school eventually pays off because dentist as well as orthodontist have high salaries. According to the U.S. News, dentists make a median salary of $151,850, while an orthodontist's salary is $208,000.
A doctor of dental surgery (DDS) or a doctor of dental medicine (DMD) are the two categories of doctorates. Depending on your program, the distinction may exist, but you can practice dentistry with either certification.
Dental schools typically offer four-year degrees. Typically, the first two years go by in a classroom, studying topics like oral pathology, anatomy, biochemistry, microbiology, and radiology. Students will study under a licensed dentist for the next two years in order to gain experience treating patients in a clinical setting.
Orthodontic Residency
In their final year of dental school, prospective orthodontists apply to orthodontic residencies; upon earning their DDS or DMD, they will become certified dentists and be eligible to start an orthodontic residency.
In addition to taking and passing the National Board Dental Examination, dentists who choose not to pursue further education must also fulfill their state's licensing requirements before they can start practicing. Although dentists are still capable of providing orthodontic treatment, they lack training in this area specifically. As a result, the majority of dentists working today are registered orthodontists who have finished a residency. The term "orthodontist" is exclusive to those dentists.
An orthodontic residency is your next step when becoming a licensed orthodontist for those who want to work as full-time practitioners of orthodontics. It is often attached to a university.
How To Get Into An Orthodontic Residency Program?
It's tough to get into an orthodontic residency. Only one spot is available for every fifteen applicants, according to the American Association of Orthodontists. The best method to secure a spot in an orthodontic residency is to graduate in the top percentage of your dental school class. A prospective orthodontist may submit multiple applications before being admitted to a program.
The National Board Dental Examination is the national licensing exam that dentists must pass in order to be eligible to apply to most residency programs. Unless you failed the exam and had to retake it before applying to schools, you won't need to take a break between dental school and your orthodontic residency because this exam is valid during dental school.
The American Association of Orthodontists' database has a list of orthodontic residencies that have received CODA accreditation. Both the United States and Canada offer the programs on this list. Most states accept orthodontic training from Canada. However, individuals who have received orthodontic training abroad will probably need to retake their studies in the United States. That, if they want to practice dentistry or orthodontics there.
Residency programs range from 3-5 years, depending on the organization. Orthodontists receive extensive training in both the art and science of orthodontia during their residency. They learn about the proper alignment of dental, jaw, and facial mold, as well as how to move teeth in a safe and effective manner.
How many years does it take to become an orthodontist, you ask? Their time learning the science is much shorter than their time in practice. Orthodontists who complete a residency program will have treated hundreds of patients, providing them with extensive knowledge in this field.
Salary Of Orthodontics
While some orthodontic residencies don't charge their residents, others do. If they do have compensation, it usually takes the shape of a stipend, which is a modest yearly sum used to pay for conference travel or some other necessities. Compared to university residencies, hospital residencies are more likely to provide a stipend.
Due to its exceptional location and exceptionally high stipend (first-year residents earn over $51,000), this program is highly competitive.
For example, Montefiore Medical Center, Bronx, New York.. This program provides top-notch training along with a $60,000 stipend for the duration of the residency.
Getting The License
You will be qualified to begin orthodontic practice after completing an orthodontic residency successfully. In order to accomplish this, you need to have fulfilled both the state licensing requirements in the state in which you plan to practice dentistry and the national dental board exam. Like dentists, orthodontists must meet the same licensing requirements.
Orthodontists have the option of earning board certification from the American Board of Orthodontics (ABO), though practice in the United States does not require board certification (only in Canada does). Written and clinical exams are required for orthodontic board certification. Visit the American Board of Orthodontics website to find out more about obtaining board certification.
Before starting their residency, the majority of orthodontists had already passed the National Board Dental Examination. Throughout their careers, all practicing medical professionals are required to recertify and complete continuing education requirements.
States have different requirements for licensing, but most of them ask you to pass a "jurisprudence exam," which measures your familiarity with the dental laws of that state. The state-by-state licensures database maintained by the American Dental Association provides information on dental licensing requirements in each state. Additional clinical exams or requirements may apply.
Staying Licensed
Just like all other medical professionals, orthodontists must maintain current licensures through regular recertification and continuing education.
Dentists and orthodontists are required by law to complete 40 hours of professional education annually in most states. In order to give their patients the best possible care, dental professionals are kept up to date on the most recent clinical and research advancements in their fields. The requirements for renewing a dental license vary by state; for more information on how to maintain your license current, contact the dental board in your state.
Wrapping Up
So, how long does it take to become an orthodontist? Residency programs vary in length, from three years to five years. Throughout their residency, orthodontists learn from experts in the field to ensure safe and efficient advancement.
It provides them with a thorough understanding of this specialty. This entails staying updated about conducting clinical examinations, obtaining and analyzing diagnostic records, providing appropriate direction for dentofacial orthopedics, etc.
Key traits that an orthodontist should have include patience, effective written and verbal communication, and the capacity to clarify difficult ideas. These come in handy when dealing with children and teenagers, who make up the bulk of orthodontic patients.
You need to apply for and obtain a separate orthodontics license from your national registering body or dental board in addition to your dentist license. It might call for passing a test. After earning your orthodontics degree and license, you can easily find employment or open your own practice!If you have thoughts to share or questions to ask about how long does it take to become an orthodontist, ask us below. We would love to hear from you!
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