For the past few years, your sole focus has likely been on getting through your ultrasound degree program and managing the stress that goes along with it. Now that graduation is in reach or has been accomplished, it’s time to begin your job search. Beginning this journey can be as overwhelming as what you likely experienced when you were searching for an ultrasound school to apply to!
Sonographer and Author Samantha Callis has real-world advice to help you successfully navigate the journey from finding and applying for your first job. In this excerpt from her book “Diagnostic Medical Sonography – The Definitive Guide to Planning Your Career“, Sam will walk you through the application and interview process.
From Ultrasound School to Your First Job
Explore this 3-part article series by Author and sonographer Samantha Callis, as discussed in her new book “Diagnostic Medical Sonography – The Definitive Guide to Planning Your Career“.
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Understanding the Ultrasound Job Market – Trends, settings, and what new grads should expect.
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Submitting the Application and Acing the Interview – Resumes, references, and interview prep that works.
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Make an Informed Decision Before Accepting the Job – Offers, shifts, benefits, and culture fit.
Finding Job Opportunities
There are several ways to explore job opportunites. In addition to internet searches and online job boards like LinkedIn, utilize professional ultrasound societies such as the ARDMS and the SDMS. Your educational institution’s faculty and career services can offer unique opportunities to network and find openings that might not be initially posted elsewhere.
Submitting the Application
Job applications are largely completed online for sonographers. You will need to upload a resume. You will also need to provide personal demographic information, employment history and any applicable certifications like your sonography credentials and CPR.
Depending on the employer you may also need to complete a questionnaire that gauges your potential to fulfill the traits they desire in workers such as communication, teamwork, conflict resolution, and time management.
You will likely submit 3 to 5 professional references. These should be people who can speak to your current experience. Good examples include program faculty, clinical instructors, and staff sonographers.
Boost Your Resume While You’re Still in School
You’ll have an advantage when you’re applying for your first job if you have already made connections and have relevant experience. The Pennsylvania College of Health Sciences shared with us some tips on how to capitalize on your strengths, and boost your resume before you even graduate.
After submitting the application, you will likely receive an email confirmation that all materials were submitted. Now you wait…. Every organization moves at a different speed. Getting hired is a multi-step process that involves human resources, administrators, and ultrasound department leaders, and it may be a little while before you hear from someone. If you are job hunting, it is reasonable to apply for several job openings. Don’t put all your gel in one bottle, especially if being hired quickly is a priority to you.
You Got the Call, Time to Interview!
You will likely meet with key members of the hiring process, whether that be a lead sonographer, administrators, physicians, staff sonographers, or human resources. Generally you will be answering questions about your relevant skills and experiences so the hiring manager can determine if you would be a good fit for the job. You may notice some job postings give a certain amount of minimum experiences or skills required. It is okay and normal to apply and interview several times before you find the right fit.
Interviews may be conducted in person, virtually via video conferencing, or over the phone. It is not uncommon for sonography candidates to scan a designated volunteer so they can get a feel for your understanding of anatomy, physiology, and imaging principles. In-person interviews are also a great way for you as the candidate to evaluate the work environment!
What to Wear?
A common question candidates have is what to wear to an interview. Business casual? Scrubs? Lab coat? If you are not given specific instructions, business casual is appropriate. It comes back to patient and worker safety, even if it’s just for an interview. Keep dangling jewelry, artificial nails, and open-toed shoes at home. Choose professional clothing that will allow you to be comfortable, walk about the hospital if you get to tour the facility, and most importantly – not distract you during your time with interviewers.
Be respectful and engaged with the interviewers. Show them the kind of attitude and demeanor they can expect from you as an employee. Lastly, say thank you! They have sorted through many applications, resumes, and likely conducted other interviews. They have taken this time out of a busy schedule to dedicate to you. You may also use this as an opportunity to follow up your interview with a phone call, thank-you note, or professional email to the recruiter or interviewer that you have been in contact with. Sometimes it is the small things that make you stand out from other candidates.