Many believe that there’s no such thing as a “permanent job” in Canada- and considering today’s economy and stability, they are quite right. Even if the idea of a permanent job is fleeting, we can still strive for something similar; a sustainable employment. Instead of a particular job you commit to working for the rest of your life, aim to stay in a particular industry or field for long periods of time.
In today’s dynamic market, job seekers and workers must have the strategic flexibility to adapt to these changes and make the best of it. However, it is best to look at your career path as a journey that keeps on going rather than one that has a single end point (having a permanent job). So how does one be strategic enough about their career choices to attain sustainable employment? Well first of all, it’s worth noting that staying in the exact same job with the same employer for too long can have a negative impact on your resume.
Consider a scenario where you suddenly need to look for another job. You have been working at an auto industry assembly line for 25 years doing the same tasks everyday, as you thought this was your permanent job. But now, your resume gravely limits you to this job and this is where people struggle as their resumes don’t let them have the flexibility to adapt or transition to a new role. One of the keys to sustainable employment is career diversity. Career diversity can be achieved by carefully evaluating your career choices.
Factors to Consider When Choosing a Career
1. Job Interest
Choose a job you enjoy and an environment where you can thrive. Research job descriptions on websites such as Indeed.ca, Monster.com, or the Government of Canada Job Bank. Look into job prospects, outlook, qualifications, working hours, work settings, employer expectations and see how they compare to your own preferences and capabilities.
2. Ability to Perform the Job
Some jobs require specific skills that not everyone possesses. For example, marketing techniques can be taught and learned by anyone, but not everyone has the natural ability to close a sale or convince a buyer.
3. Qualifications
Do you have the credentials required? Some roles need a degree, while others may only require a skills upgrade or vocational training.
4. Licensing/Accreditation
Certain careers require professional licensing. If you cannot complete the licensing process, your training may not translate into employability, so assess requirements early.
5. Working Hours
For those with children or dependent individuals, consider how work hours will affect your family life. For example, Early Childhood Assistants (ECAs) or Early Childhood Educators (ECEs) must work within daycare hours, typically 7 a.m. to 7 p.m.
6. Physical Ability
Some careers, like Personal Support Worker (PSW), require heavy lifting. If you have physical limitations, consult your doctor before committing to such roles.
7. Medical Conditions and Work Environment
If you have health concerns such as asthma or severe allergies, evaluate the work environment carefully to ensure it’s safe for you perform regularly
More importantly, ensure there are enough job opportunities in your chosen field so you can secure an entry-level position. Choosing a career without sufficient market demand increases the risk of unemployment. If you enter a job you dislike or cannot perform well, you are more likely to quit—or be let go. To get a better grasp on the idea of retaining a job in the same field but with differing positions and qualifications, let’s take a look at a dental office below.
Working in a Dental Office in Ontario
Dental Office Administrator/Receptionist
Requires strong communication skills, computer literacy, multitasking ability, and excellent customer service. Minimal medical terminology and post secondary diploma is usually required. The shifts are generally the normal dental office hours.
Dental Chairside Assistant
Requires in-depth dental terminology knowledge. Duties may include handing tools to the dentist, preparing filling materials, taking X-rays, sterilizing equipment, preparing rooms for patients, reading and updating records, and calling patients for appointments. Post secondary, dental assistant diploma and certification with ODAA are all required.
Dental Hygienist
Performs teeth cleaning (scaling) and sometimes minor fillings, in addition to many dental assistant duties. Requires licensing and earns a higher salary than a dental assistant. Must have completed a dental hygiene program accredited by CDAC, pass the FDHRC written exam and register with CDHO
All trademarks, service marks, logos, and website domains featured in this publication are the property of their respective owners. Their inclusion does not imply any endorsement or affiliation with GTAjobs and Career News paper or its partners.Dentist (General Practice)
Requires extensive education; bachelor’s degree, get either a DMD or DDS degree from dental school and become licensed with the NBDE.
Dental Specialist
Specializes in areas such as orthodontics, root canals, or oral surgery. Has similar qualifications to General Dentist but also requires two to six year residencies depending on the specialization.
As you can see, there is a vast variety of jobs in this field, but conditions and qualifications vary. If you choose to work towards becoming a dental chairside assistant, remember not to keep it as your end career goal and rather a point in your career journey; because there might come a point where chairside assistants are being laid off and you will be stuck in a position to find a new job. Instead of confining yourself to constantly applying to more dental assistant jobs, consider one of the other jobs in that field like dental hygienist. Perhaps there is a higher demand for the hygienist and therefore for you that is your next step.
Of course you would need to gain the diploma and certification, but by meeting the qualifications, you are no longer stuck trying to find a job that isn’t currently hiring. You will be able to continue working in the dental field but in a different position and with that, you maintain employment sustainability.
