Sue
What are the two most important things to be aware of as I enter the workforce as a master's level professional?
In two years I will be looking for work with a master's degree. I am wondering how to get the best position possible. In social work there are many opportunities.
#socialwork #masters-degree #lcsw #therapists
3 answers
Amber Sparks (Bartlett), MSW
Amber’s Answer
If you're currently earning your masters, I would encourage you to utilize the resources in your masters program to start developing professional relationships now. In a relational field like social work, networking and getting to know other professionals still matters quite a bit. While you're earning your masters you'll likely be given the opportunity/or be required to participate in practice internships. Use those opportunities to both figure out what avenue of social work you want to pursue and also to develop relationships that will help you find a job when you graduate.
Another great resource is professional organizations. Joining a professional organization such as the National Association of Social Workers (NASW) or something similar is a great way to get connected. Membership fees are often lowered or waived for students, so take advantage of that and get the most that you can out of your education.
Your answer is great Amber, thanks so much for sharing your expertise! At this moment there are more than 800 unanswered questions so I wanted to encourage you to keep going! So many students will benefit tremendously from hearing from you. Keep up the great work!
Jordan Rivera, Admin
COACH
Akshata Naronakar
Akshata’s Answer
2. Internships: Look for internships at well-known places that match your career goals. These can often lead to job offers or provide great references.
3. Clinical Skills: If you're interested in clinical work, learn therapies like CBT or EMDR to boost your skills.
4. Leadership: Get involved in leadership roles in student groups or seek supervision opportunities during internships.
5. Resume and Cover Letter: Target organizations known for growth and innovation, like top hospitals or nonprofits. Apply to jobs that match your skills and goals. Highlight your training, internships, and achievements.
6. Interview Prep: Practice talking about your experience, ethics, and dedication to social justice. Connect with people in similar roles on LinkedIn to understand what they look for.
