The Ins & Outs of Landing a Phlebotomy Job
As a phlebotomist, you are more than just a fluid sampling lab tech. You're a counselor, a clerk, and a lifeline to patients, as well as quality assurance for your employer. But how do you land your first real job as a phlebotomist? Read on for some tips.
Internships - Job Boards - Cover Letter & Resume Tips
Phlebotomy Internships
How many times have you applied for a job, only to find that you don't meet the experience requirements? This happens to most entry-level workers and new graduates. One of the best ways to build your experience—and therefore look more appealing to possible employers—is by participating in an internship while earning your phlebotomy certificate or degree.
Many accredited phlebotomy programs can help arrange internships and externships for their students, giving them opportunities for practical, hands-on experience in either hospital or clinical settings. If your program does not include a practical, hands-on component, you should probably consider transferring to a different school.
Unfortunately, competition for the internships and externships can be fierce and oftentimes not available for students who aren't involved in accredited phlebotomy programs. In the case that you're unable to participate in an internship, there are alternatives. Try volunteering at free clinics, blood drives, retirement homes, or veterans' hospitals.
Phlebotomy Job Boards
The healthcare industry is booming, and there are many jobs available across the country. One of the easiest ways to find such jobs is to look online. There are a number of job boards that focus on medical careers like phlebotomy, and a few general job boards that might have some good opportunities as well. Cast a wide net, and you're bound to find something.
Healthcare-specific job boards:
General job boards:
Writing a Cover Letter & Resume
Applying for a job as a phlebotomist requires the same finesse you put into hitting a vein perfectly with every stick. Once you've found a job or two to apply to, you need to work on writing a stellar cover letter and resume. Tips to remember:
- Explain in your cover letter how past jobs/experiences have contributed to your ability to perform this job well.
- Be professional, but also conversational, in your cover letter.
- Think of your prospective employer as an actual person, rather than a generic figure. This will help you write a more engaging cover letter.
- List all of your work experiences, even non-medical positions, on your resume. If you have had clerical positions, point out how those jobs required attention to detail.
- Proofread, proofread, proofread! Grammar and spelling errors are not acceptable on resumes and cover letters.
Here are some samples to help you get started:
Article Resources:
American Society for Clinical Pathology
American Society of Phlebotomy Technicians
WorkBloom: Phlebotomist Resume
DevBistro: Phlebotomist Resume
Resume Cover Letters
Medical and Health Information