It's Getting Real... and Fast!

As you know I am now in my final year of my Medical Imaging degree. At university recently, we have been broaching the topic of job applications. Yes, I am scared. I didn't expect to start thinking about this for another couple of months yet! Now I have to begin compiling a resume and cover letter while hoping that I can source enough referees by the time I apply for my first radiography position.

When I looked back on my experiences I wonder how I can sell myself to an employer. I haven't worked more than one casual job and my personal desktop publishing business was more of a pocket money maker. I started to fret. Then I took a deep breath and thought, "I haven't wasted my life, there has to be something of use in there." Oh wait…. I'm an author!

What does it take to be an author? I am motivated. Without self-motivation, there is no way I could have completed two manuscripts and be close to publishing my first. Writing a novel takes years of hard work and dedication. You must be a creative individual, able to think outside of the square box, then place those thoughts down on paper. You have to be proactive. No one is going to write, edit, and publish a book for you. No one is going to do the initial marketing of the book in your stead. I have the ability to work independently to complete a difficult task but also be able to take criticism and use it to better myself and improve my skills. I have proven my ability to communicate with others over the internet to bring in guest bloggers and to write effectively so that my meaning is clear. I show time management skills, being able to juggle my writing, marketing, university degree and other commitments. Being an author proves that I have a number of attributes that can be useful in any number of career paths. Hence, this will be included in my resume as proof of my worthiness.

Soon I will begin job hunting and I am ready to show potential employers that I am just what they need. I have the skills they require and will be a valuable member of the team. Come on world!

Scarlett Van Dijk

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Image courtesy of Stuart Miles / FreeDigitalPhotos.net