Getting Hired in a New Industry

by Elise
(New Hampshire)

I have over 14 years of manufacturing experience and have been laid off four times in that time period. Sick of the trend, I went back to school for medical billing and coding. I have zero experience in it and have minimal contacts to use to get in.



Elise -

There are a lot of people in the job market today who have the same issue. Their old industry is not hiring, and they find that they need to blaze a new trail in order to find work.

So, first, let me assure you that you are not alone. Secondly, I applaud your initiative in seeking out training in a new field. You have actually picked an industry that is hiring, and where your skills are projected to be in demand for years to come. You will be able to put these new skills to work, and I have some ideas about how to make that happen.

You need to target your job search by thinking about who has a need for medical billing and coding. Organizations that readily come to mind include:

1. Physician Practices


2. Ambulatory Surgery Centers


3. Hospitals


4. Insurance Companies


5. Practice Management Consulting Firms


6. Federal & State Government


7. Medical Billing Firms (many docs outsource this function)

You'll need to do some research. The internet can provide lots of information. For example, run this search and see what comes up: "ambulatory surgery center" and "New Hampshire". Check out the Medical Group Management Association (MGMA) and look for job openings in New Hampshire. Look at listings for doctor's offices in your area. See if there's a professional association dedicated to the medical billing field with a chapter in your local area. In short, you'll need to compile a robust list of prospects.

With your list in hand, the next thing you need to do is find some people to talk to. Informational interviewing (see The Informational Interview) is a great way to make connections without actually asking for a job. Look at the websites of the companies you've identified. Many times, you'll find names of people who work there, and who might be willing to give you some time. You'll need to pick up the phone, and call them. Ask for 15-20 minutes of their time to talk about working in the industry. This section on networking should also be helpful to you: Job Search Networking.

In larger companies, like hospitals and insurance companies, use LinkedIn to find people who work there. LinkedIn is a great professional networking source.

Tell people you know what you're looking for. Ask who their doctor is and if they know the Office Manager. Just because you don't know anyone who works in this field, doesn't mean others in your circle can't be helpful. Ask the Practice Administrator or Office Manager at your own physician's office for help.

You should also check out the placement services from the training program you attended. Most technical schools assist with placement.

If you are interested in starting your own business, many of the ideas above can help. It's a matter of letting people know that you're available and pursuing every lead.

Hope this helps. Good luck with your search!