It’s been almost 4 years since I retook the RD exam. As much as my story is a cautionary tale, it is also one of redemption. When I let my RD lapse more than a decade ago, I was so swamped with being a mom, I couldn’t imagine ever working as an RD again. Still in the back of my mind I always knew that I could retake the RD exam. As it turns out, for me, retaking the exam was the easiest obstacle to overcome. It never occurred to me that I wouldn’t be welcomed back into the field with open arms. Maybe my story is similar to yours. I graduated with a BS in nutrition from Cornell then I went on to the coordinated internship and masters degree program with the Bronx VA and NYU. I worked as an editorial assistant for a food magazine, as a research assistant on a breast cancer study, as a clinical dietitian in a hospital, and finally as an Assistant Director of Foodservice for Beth Israel North. My career screeched to a halt the day I gave birth to the first of my 4 sons. I cleared out my desk and left work for good. As I was shutting the door on my career, I did make one decision that proved to be hugely beneficial, I became licensed by NY state. Unlike with the RD, you can reinstate your license just by paying a fee. If you are a CDN, even if you are not an RD, you can become an insurance provider. If you find yourself like I did, with changing circumstances and the need to return to the workforce, what should you do? For starters, know that you are not alone. NETWORKING Networking is literally building relationships. There is a big difference between networking and gossiping. When I talk about my personal life, which trust me is worthy of a Lifetime special, I never advance my career. But, if I talk about my professional goals and accomplishments, I am opening the door to the possibility of a professional connection. If you find yourself in a conversation headed for soap opera city, redirect it to something more constructive and don’t be shy about self promoting. Have your elevator pitch ready. In other words, be able to sell yourself in 1 or 2 sentences. Networking is especially important when you are returning to the workforce after an extended absence. Early on I applied to many jobs online and never got a response. If felt like my resume went into a black hole. But when I had a personal connection, my resume went to the top of the pile. Your network is composed of literally everyone you have ever had some contact with. You should build your network on line with Linkedin, Facebook, Twitter, and with your blog. Face to face is also important. Every time you lave your house it is a chance to make a connection. Get out of your sweatpants and present yourself to the world as a professional. Be sure to follow up on all leads. 97% of people never follow up. Distinguish yourself and notice the difference. When you have a choice between sending an email and making a phone call, pick up the phone. Make the personal connection. My favorite quote is from Seth Godin: The best time to start was a while ago. The second best time is today. The next blog post will be on how to write a winning resume. About the author:
Madeleine Berg, MS,RDN,CDN is the founder of Long Island Worksite Wellness which provides worksite wellness programs for Fortune 500 companies in the tri state area. She also has a private practice in Woodbury. Follow her on Facebook Madeleine Berg, The SuperNutritionist and on twitter @Supernutritioni
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Lisa Samuels is a Long Island native who is currently a Dietetic Intern at LIU Post. She has a B.A. in Art History from Ithaca College, a B.S. in Nutrition from LIU Post & was also a practicing baker for two years. Lisa has finally found her calling. Combining her love for food, writing, and nutrition, she strives to bring you the latest news in the field.
Check out even more posts from Lisa at her website: www.haveabitenutrition.com Archives
June 2015
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