A Medical Coder's Guide to Professional Success

Today’s Agendau Executing a Successful Job Search

u Revise and update your resume and cover letter

u Research job opportunities

u What to expect during the job search process

u Perfecting Superior Interview Skills

u Preparing for an interview

u What to bring

u What to ask

u Navigating Office Politics

u Outline expectations

u Design a successful work environment

Executing a Successful Job Search

Review and Update Your Resume

u Resume Revision

u Include all certifications, skills, and experience

u Use keyword and action verbs

u Update and verify contact information

u Cover Letter Revision

u “Brag” about yourself!

u Avoid statements like “I think...” or “In my opinion…”

u Style the letter to a specific position, or use language that can relate to any job

Research Job Opportunities

u Research

u Explore all companies in your area that hire coders

u List advantages and disadvantages and how they apply to your goals

u Set Goals and Focus In!

u Short Term Goals

u Which certification is best to obtain my coveted coding position?

u What type of work environment do I see myself working in?

u Long Term Goals

u What do I want to be doing in 5 or 10 years?

u What are my retirement plans, and how does the company I work for contribute?

What to Expect During the Job Search

u Applications

u Formal vs Informal

u Process times vary; know what to expect, and when

u Communication

u Application follow up

u Phone communication

u Email communication

Perfecting Superior Interview Skills

Preparing for an Interview

u Formal Research

u Investigate the company website

u Read articles addressing the history/future

u Connect on LinkedIn

u Informal Research

u Talk to past employees

u Request information from your coding instructor

u Browse reviews on GlassDoor

What to Bring

u Your Best Self!

u Confidence

u Composure

u Job History Details

u Notebook or Notepad

u Take notes!

u Reminders of questions and concerns

u Reminders of your skills and talents

What to Ask

u Inquire About the Role

u What’s an average day for this employee?

u How do you measure success?

u Who does this employee report to?

u How long has this position been available?

u Inquire About the Culture

u How much time does the owner or upper management spend in the office?

u Does the company give back to the community?

u What continuing learning opportunities do you offer?

u What was the biggest challenge and accomplishment for the team in recent history?

NavigatingOffice Politics

Outline Expectations

u Daily Position Duties

u Expected production output

u Tracking quality output

u Checking in when arriving and leaving, and for breaks

u Yearly Reviews

u What is the review structure?

u Who will conduct my yearly review

Design a Successful Work Environment

u Cubicle Etiquette

u Phone calls

u Decoration

u Music

u Communication Etiquette

u Emails

u Phone

Questions or Comments?