How to Clean Your Computer to Sell

If you would like to sell your computer, you want to make sure that it's going to be appealing to a new buyer. Cleaning it to sell it isn't the same as [[Refurbish a Computer|refurbishing your computer]], but many of the steps for the computer itself might be similar.

[[Category:Computers and Electronics]]

== Steps ==
#What are you selling? Know what you're going to include with your computer. It's important to know, as you'll be cleaning all of these things.[[Image:Clean Your Computer to Sell Step 1.jpg|center]]
=== Laptops ===
#'''Spray it with compressed air.''' Find the fan, and spray it with compressed air. Vents, do the same. The keyboard may also be sprayed with compressed air. If the laptop is really old (more than just a couple of years), you want to do a thorough cleaning job, and you feel comfortable doing this, find a specific manual for the laptop online that shows you how to take it apart (most laptops are different), and spray each component individually. If you do this, you want to make sure you clean certain parts, specifically, the heat sink (fan on the CPU, look for a fan on a chip on the motherboard).[[Image:Clean Your Computer to Sell Step 2 Version 2.jpg|center]]
#'''Clean the screen.''' Buy some screen cleaner and use a microfiber cloth to clean the screen. Do not spray directly on screen, spray on cloth then wipe til' there isn't anymore solution on the screen.[[Image:Clean Your Computer to Sell Step 3 Version 2.jpg|center]]
#'''Wipe down the laptop with a microfiber cloth (no alcohol solution).''' Be sure to wipe the whole case to make it more appealing.[[Image:Clean Your Computer to Sell Step 4 Version 2.jpg|center]]
#'''Include a working power supply.''' This isn't necessary, but it's a good idea. No one wants to buy a laptop without a power supply.[[Image:Clean Your Computer to Sell Step 5 Version 2.jpg|center]]
=== Desktops ===
#'''Spray it with compressed air.''' Spray external fans and vents with compressed air. Then open the case, and spray. Specifically, spray cards that are covered in dust, the heat sync, and any other dust you can see. Be careful not to damage the computer while doing this. Fans are vulnerable to damage if sprayed with compressed air.[[Image:Clean Your Computer to Sell Step 6.jpg|center]]
#'''If you're including a screen, clean it.''' Use a basic solution of rubbing alcohol and water, with for every unit of rubbing alcohol, there are two units of water. Use a microfiber cloth to clean the screen with the solution.[[Image:Clean Your Computer to Sell Step 7 Version 2.jpg|center]]
#'''Clean anything else you are including.''' Most items you are including will either be clean or be difficult to clean, but depending on what it is, you can use compressed air or just a microfiber cloth (no rubbing alcohol) to clean most parts.[[Image:Clean Your Computer to Sell Step 8 Version 2.jpg|center]]
=== Universal Work ===
#'''Clean the registry.''' Use a registry cleaner such as CCLEANER, or just clean it manually.[[Image:Clean Your Computer to Sell Step 10.jpg|center]]
#*Don't use scams that make you pay. Also run a virus scan.
#'''Remove all personal information.''' The best way to do this is to [[Permanently Erase Data Off a Hard Drive|use a selective file wipe method]]. After erasing everything that you don't want someone to find on your computer (documents, programs that you had installed, visited websites, etc.), use one of these programs to wipe the data permanently. It may be wise to completely format your disk and re-install the operating system to make sure it's impossible to miss anything.[[Image:Clean Your Computer to Sell Step 9.jpg|center]]
# [[Defragment a Disk on a Windows Computer|Defragment the hard disk]].[[Image:Clean Your Computer to Sell Step 11.jpg|center]]

== Warnings ==
*Be careful when using the rubbing alcohol solution. Spilling it on the monitor or computer or any other components may damage them.
*Be sure that you are using the correct solution. If you choose,you may have less alcohol, but not more, than for every one unit of alcohol, there are two units of water (e.g.: you could have half a unit of alcohol for every two units of water).

== Related wikiHows ==
*[[Thoroughly Clean Your Computer]]
*[[Wipe a Computer]]

How to Charge a Mophie Juice Pack

#Get the included USB cable. There should be a USB cable included with the product when you unbox it. Take it and inspect for damage, as this might cause the device not to charge.[[Image:Charge a Mophie Juice Pack Step 1.jpg|center]]
#Find a compatible power source. You will need a power brick or wall plug–style power source that is compatible with your USB cable. Any power source that says “works with iPhone” is suitable.[[Image:Charge a Mophie Juice Pack Step 2.jpg|center]]
#Plug in the USB cable into the Juice Pack. Insert the smaller end of the USB cable into the Juice Pack’s charging port.[[Image:Charge a Mophie Juice Pack Step 3.jpg|center]]
#*You do not need to charge the devices separately, as the iPhone will charge first, then the Juice Pack.
#Plug the power source into a wall outlet. Grab the wall charger and insert it into a vacant wall outlet.[[Image:Charge a Mophie Juice Pack Step 4.jpg|center]]
#*Your iPhone should charge. When finished, your Juice Pack will charge.

How to Change File Dates

When a file is created on a computer, it is automatically given a set of attributes. These attributes include the date, size and file format. However, file dates may occasionally need to be be changed. Windows 8, Windows 10 and Mac OS X are the most popular platforms for PCs today.


[[Category:Computers and Electronics]]

== Steps ==

=== Changing "Date Created" and "Date Modified" for Files in Windows 8 and Windows 10 ===
#Download BulkFileChanger if you do not already have a copy in your system. This utility program enables you to create lists of Windows files and change their attributes.[[Image:Change File Dates Step 1 Version 2.jpg|center]]
#Run BulkFileChanger. When the main menu appears, click File and then Add Files.[[Image:Change File Dates Step 2 Version 2.jpg|center]]
#Select the file (or folder) where you want to change the date/time attribute. It will show up as an entry on a list.[[Image:Change File Dates Step 3 Version 2.jpg|center]]
#Click on Actions and then Change Time/Attributes.[[Image:Change File Dates Step 4 Version 2.jpg|center]]
#Change the Date Created or Date Modified attribute. You can just check the boxes on the menu for what you want to modify. You can add a specific amount to the current times on the file or even copy time from one file to another to make them match.[[Image:Change File Dates Step 5 Version 2.jpg|center]]
#Click on Do it when you have changed the time as desired. The files will now reflect the new "Date Created" and "Date Modified" times you created.<ref> http://www.online-tech-tips.com/computer-tips/how-to-change-the-last-modified-date-creation-date-and-last-accessed-date-for-files-and-folders/</ref>[[Image:Change File Dates Step 6 Version 2.jpg|center]]
=== Changing a File Date on a Mac Running OS X ===
# Launch the OS X "Terminal." Pull down the "Applications" menu, then click on "Utilities", then launch Terminal.[[Image:1365696 7.jpg|center]]
# Find the file path of the file you are interested in. Drag and drop the file onto the Terminal window, and Terminal will provide the file path at the command prompt. The file path can then be copied.<ref>http://www.cnet.com/how-to/how-to-copy-a-file-path-in-os-x/</ref>[[Image:1365696 8.jpg|center]]
# Enter the terminal command "touch -mt YYYYMMDDhhmm.ss [file path]" into the Terminal. This will change the modification date. This sends a command to the touch utility (which sets the modification and access times of files) to set the new date and time. '''NOTE: YYYY means the year, MM the month, DD the day, hh the hour, mm the minute, ss the second of the target time.'''<ref>https://developer.apple.com/library/mac/documentation/Darwin/Reference/ManPages/man1/touch.1.html</ref>[[Image:1365696 9.jpg|center]]
# Enter the command "touch -at YYYYMMDDhhmm.ss [file path]". This will change the access date.[[Image:1365696 10.jpg|center]]
# Enter the command "touch -t YYYYMMDDhhmm.ss [file path]". This will change the creation date, unfortunately, only if the target time is before the original creation time. If your target time is after the original creation time, see the citation for the solution.<ref>http://apple.stackexchange.com/questions/99536/changing-creation-date-of-a-file</ref>[[Image:1365696 11.jpg|center]]

== Tips ==
* With BulkFileChanger, you can also change the attributes of the files (ie, Read-Only, Hidden, System, etc.)

== Sources and Citations ==
 {{reflist}}

How to Block Internet Control Message Protocol (ICMP)

#Navigate to the Start screen by either clicking the Start icon in the bottom left corner of the screen, or pressing the Windows key on your keyboard.[[Image:Block Internet Control Message Protocol (ICMP) Step 1.jpg|center]]
#Type “Windows Firewall”. Click Windows Firewall once you see it appear on the right-hand side of the screen.[[Image:Block Internet Control Message Protocol (ICMP) Step 2.jpg|center]]
#On the left pane of the Windows Firewall menu, click “Advanced settings” and allow access if asked.[[Image:Block Internet Control Message Protocol (ICMP) Step 3.jpg|center]]
#On the left pane of the Windows Firewall with Advanced Security menu, click “Inbound Rules”.[[Image:Block Internet Control Message Protocol (ICMP) Step 4.jpg|center]]
#Under “Actions” on the right, select “New Rule…”.[[Image:Block Internet Control Message Protocol (ICMP) Step 5.jpg|center]]
#Click “Custom”, then “Next”.[[Image:Block Internet Control Message Protocol (ICMP) Step 6.jpg|center]]
#Leave “All programs” selected, then click “Next”.[[Image:Block Internet Control Message Protocol (ICMP) Step 7.jpg|center]]
#On the “Protocol type” dropdown menu, select “ICMPv4,” then click “Customize”[[Image:Block Internet Control Message Protocol (ICMP) Step 8.jpg|center]]
#* This is a good point to be very specific with the functions of ICMP that you want to block. Research the security advantages of blocking ICMP connections and weigh them against the network implications.
#Once you have selected the specific types you would like to block, click “OK.”[[Image:Block Internet Control Message Protocol (ICMP) Step 9.jpg|center]]
#* For the Scope, you can configure whether the rule applies to traffic from certain IP addresses or for all traffic on the network.
#On the Action page, select ”Block the connection” then click “Next.”[[Image:Block Internet Control Message Protocol (ICMP) Step 10.jpg|center]]
#Select which profile you want the rule to apply to and click “Next.”[[Image:Block Internet Control Message Protocol (ICMP) Step 11.jpg|center]]
#Give the rule a name and click “Finish.”[[Image:Block Internet Control Message Protocol (ICMP) Step 12.jpg|center]]
#* You have now created a host-based firewall rule for blocking ICMP traffic.

How to Avail Effective Tech Support for Your Issue

#Note the error message. Most system errors appear on a timely basis, so it is quite possible that the error notification is no longer available when you call the help desk. It becomes extremely crucial to understand the message delivered by the error as that message points out the cause of error.[[Image:Avail Effective Tech Support for Your Issue Step 1.jpg|center]]
#Grab a pencil. All you are required to do when you see an error message on your computer screen is write it down.[[Image:Avail Effective Tech Support for Your Issue Step 2.jpg|center]]
#*You can also take a screen shot of the error as displayed on your system.
#Try preliminary troubleshooting. At times, simple troubleshooting steps may help save your considerable time.[[Image:Avail Effective Tech Support for Your Issue Step 3.jpg|center]]
#Ensure all connections are securely connected. If any loose connection is found, plug it properly. Inspect all wires to detect any burnt wires.[[Image:Avail Effective Tech Support for Your Issue Step 4.jpg|center]]
#Inspect the system for debris around the circuit board, fan or other common areas.[[Image:Avail Effective Tech Support for Your Issue Step 5.jpg|center]]
#Restart. Restarting may serve as one of the best troubleshooting options. You can easily reboot into safe mode on a Windows PC. Holding the power button for a few seconds can kill the computer if it is frozen.[[Image:Avail Effective Tech Support for Your Issue Step 6.jpg|center]]
#Try searching for the help menu/function on your program toolbar. You can follow the instructions given in help menu to save considerable time.[[Image:Avail Effective Tech Support for Your Issue Step 7.jpg|center]]
#Inspect if the problem you are facing is also being encountered by your colleagues on your network. A network connectivity issue is indicated if the problem is common to all. Try to find out if any intermittent connection or outage issue exists.[[Image:Avail Effective Tech Support for Your Issue Step 8.jpg|center]]
#Collect your system information.[[Image:Avail Effective Tech Support for Your Issue Step 9.jpg|center]]
#*Gather crucial details like account number, serial number, error info, etc., pertaining to your system. Also remember to note the software application version number prior to calling the tech representative. Clicking on the top/bottom toolbar will provide you details about your system.
#Be prepared to work in collaboration with tech representative.[[Image:Avail Effective Tech Support for Your Issue Step 10.jpg|center]]
#*You must be geared up to assist the tech support agent in the best way possible rather than simply saying, “Please fix it”. It is inevitable that the tech support representative will ask you to try several things to fix your issue.
#Be patient and courteous.[[Image:Avail Effective Tech Support for Your Issue Step 11.jpg|center]]
#*It must be understood that solving your problem from a remote location may take more time. So, you also need to be patient and courteous in your approach towards the agent.

How to Find a High Paying Technology Job

Following a career path in technology is a smart employment decision. As the technological landscape changes, software engineers, IT consultants, security administrators and analysts set up and improve this cutting-edge science. If you enjoy math and science, and you want to work with computers, video games, applications or other aspects of the tech business, then you should work hard to choose an education that will afford you the best opportunities. Once you've graduated, you can target your job search to optimize your salary and your job satisfaction. Learn how to find a high-paying technology job.
[[Category:Information Technology Careers]]

== Steps ==

=== Technology Education/Experience ===
# Choose your educational path according to which technology jobs are expected to see positive job growth. The US Bureau of Labor Statistics lists most jobs and their expected growth in the next 8 to 10 years. For example, in 2012, information technology consultants, data scientists, cloud architects, search engine specialists are expected to see job growth at a rate much faster than the national average.[[Image:Find a High Paying Technology Job Step 1.jpg|center]]
#* Expected growth industries change a little every year, especially in the technology sector where new platforms and programs create new types of jobs. Do extensive research before you enter school. Search online for articles about high-growth technology jobs, read business and technology journals and discuss job growth with people you know in the technology sector.
# Complete your degree. While there are some technology jobs that do not require a 4-year degree, this is the standard for engineering, administration and software development. Consider Management Information Systems (MIS), Computer Science or Software Engineering.[[Image:Communicate with a Non Native English Speaker Step 4.jpg|center]]
#* Popular jobs that only require a 2-year degree include graphic design, web development and computer support specialties.
# Work on open-source platforms or intern to get experience. What might surprise many new college graduates is that some of the best places to work in technology look for passion in their employees. Fostering new ideas and contributing to larger projects will show you to be a creative, driven employee.[[Image:Find a High Paying Technology Job Step 3.jpg|center]]
#* When you are looking for a tech job, you want to be able to express how you are a better choice than the dozens to thousands of other applicants for the job. Working on pet projects, open source platforms or on research may give you an edge on the competition.
#* If you are a budding developer, try to become versed on Android, iPhone, the Cloud and JavaScript. You can specialize later on; however, you may develop a talent and passion by trying several systems.
# Choose a job path based on its starting salary. IT auditors, data modelers, software engineers, network security administrators and data analysts can earn a starting salary into 6 figures. If you find a high-paying job that you want to work toward, take electives while in school and choose jobs that give you experience in the field.[[Image:Start Building Wealth at a Young Age Step 2.jpg|center]]
#* There is some risk to choosing an educational path based on 1 job, since the tech industry can change greatly in 2 to 4 years. However, once you've graduated, you can begin to work toward your high-paying job by making calculated employment and experience choices.
# Get 2 to 5 years of applicable experience in your field to increase your salary. Few tech people get to start off as a software developer, data modeler or IT auditor. Apply for an entry-level job as an assistant analyst, junior web developer, data manager or assistant applications developer.[[Image:Find a High Paying Technology Job Step 5.jpg|center]]
#* Some jobs, such as applications and cloud architects require 8 to 10 years of applications development experience.
# Stay atop of the most current technology information in your field. Employers will look for people who are on the cutting edge of the industry. As you go through school and long after, try to read technology websites and journals so you can discuss new technology thoughtfully.[[Image:Find a High Paying Technology Job Step 6.jpg|center]]
=== Technology Employment Strategies ===
# Move to technology hubs to increase your salary and job prospects. New York City and Silicon Valley will always have a high number of tech jobs. Other growing tech hubs include Portland, OR, Denver, CO, Salt Lake City, UT, Minneapolis, MN, Boston, MA, Baltimore, MD, San Diego, CA, Seattle, WA, Cleveland, OH, Chicago, IL, Dallas and Austin, TX and Atlanta, GA.[[Image:Communicate with a Non Native English Speaker Step 9.jpg|center]]
# Find a technology recruiter. Technology recruiters or head hunters are still used widely in the technology sector. In fact, many major companies like Apple and Google almost always use recruiters to find employees, rather than posting listings in the traditional way.[[Image:Communicate with a Non Native English Speaker Step 2.jpg|center]]
#* Recruiters do the work of seeking out high-paying jobs for you, and they make money by receiving a fee for finding excellent employees. Market yourself to several recruiting companies based in your area. You never know who will have the best contacts, and they can also help you to improve your resume and interviewing skills.
# Post your resume online. Recruiters look for tech professionals on Monster, Career Builder, Craigslist and other websites.[[Image:Start Building Wealth at a Young Age Step 6.jpg|center]]
#* In order to optimize your resume on search results, use the word "resume" in the body of the document. Also, specify all applicable experience, including buzz words like "software," "Android" "data analysis" and other descriptive words.
# Research jobs with the highest-paying tech companies. One way to ensure you start in technology with a high-paying job, is to aim to work for those companies that report high starting and median salaries. Search for jobs with these companies on their websites, on job boards and by contacting their human resources department and talent acquisitions manager.[[Image:Accrue an Expense Step 4.jpg|center]]
#* Information on these companies is often listed in articles on the Internet. In 2012, the highest-paying tech companies were Nokia, Intel, eBay, Oracle, Google, Adobe, Yahoo, Nvidia, Salesforce and Microsoft. You should assume that any companies listed in these articles will have the largest competition for high-paying jobs.
# Move to management or senior level positions at a company. Seek and apply for promotions internally. Even as you seek other, more profitable work, it is good to show that you have been found to be a valuable employee who can hold a senior role.[[Image:Find a High Paying Technology Job Step 11.jpg|center]]
# Consider seeking a master's degree in computer science or business administration. Achieving this level of education can help you move up to an administrative or architect role more quickly.[[Image:Communicate with a Non Native English Speaker Step 14.jpg|center]]


== Tips ==
* Go to Payscale.com to compare what you are making now to what others in your industry are making. This website also publishes surveys about jobs, salaries and growth industries.

== Things You'll Need ==
* Bureau of Labor Statistics website
* Technology journals/websites
* Associate's or bachelor's degree
* Open-source experience
* Entry-level experience
* Job research
* Technology Recruiter
* Senior/managerial promotion
* Online resume
* Master's degree
* Payscale.com salary report


== Related wikiHows ==
*  [[Start a Career in Information Technology]]
*  [[Get a Job in Computers]]
*  [[Get a Degree in Information Technology]]

== Sources and Citations ==
* [http://guycodeblog.mtv.com/2011/09/27/infographic-tech-jobs/ http://guycodeblog.mtv.com/2011/09/27/infographic-tech-jobs/]
* [http://www.huffingtonpost.com/2012/06/22/top-paying-tech-companies_n_1619430.html http://www.huffingtonpost.com/2012/06/22/top-paying-tech-companies_n_1619430.html]
* [http://www.forbes.com/sites/susankalla/2012/05/31/how-to-get-a-rich-tech-job-and-avoid-the-firing-squad/ http://www.forbes.com/sites/susankalla/2012/05/31/how-to-get-a-rich-tech-job-and-avoid-the-firing-squad/]
* [http://gizmodo.com/5881291/how-to-get-a-job-in-tech http://gizmodo.com/5881291/how-to-get-a-job-in-tech]
* [http://www.pcworld.com/article/197178/IT_Jobs.html http://www.pcworld.com/article/197178/IT_Jobs.html]

How to Become a Medical Technologist

Medical technologists, also called clinical laboratory scientists or clinical laboratory technologists, work in hospitals and medical laboratories. When a doctor takes a specimen from a patient to test for infection, cancer, or other medical problem, it's the medical technologist that runs the tests and reports the results.<ref>http://learn.org/articles/Medical_Technician_5_Steps_to_Becoming_a_Certified_Medical_Tech.html</ref> Medical technologists don't usually work with patients directly, but they play an important role in diagnosing and treating them. To become a medical technologist you need to finish high school, get a degree from an accredited program, and become certified.

[[Category:Health Care]]

== Steps ==

===Evaluating Your Skills, Interests, and Options===

#List your attributes.  As a medical technologist, you must be able to problem-solve, multitask, be meticulous, and be organized. You will need attention to details and the ability to handle delicate or dangerous materials. You’ll be an important part of a medical team.<ref>http://coverlettersandresume.com/medical/medical-technologist-skills-and-qualifications-for-resume/</ref>[[Image:Become a Medical Technologist Step 1 Version 3.jpg|center]]

#*Write a list of your skills and attributes – things you consider to be your strengths. Consider whether this career will be a good fit for you.

#Think about your career goals. Make a list of what you want out of your career – salary, working hours, career advancement, etc. Take some time to think about whether you want to pursue a career as a medical technologist.[[Image:Become a Medical Technologist Step 2 Version 3.jpg|center]]

#*Medical technologists must be able to work independently, sometimes at night or on weekends. You may sometimes be under considerable pressure, especially when a patient's life depends on fast and accurate test results.

#Speak with professionals in the field. Contact the hiring department or human resources department at your local hospital or medical laboratory. Ask about what they look for when hiring. You can also ask to speak with a professional in the field when they have time, and ask about their career path and education.[[Image:Become a Medical Technologist Step 3 Version 3.jpg|center]]

#*Say something like, “I’m interested in becoming a medical technologist. Could you please suggest any good programs in the area? What degree did you pursue?” 

#Get advice from your peers or your school counselor. If you know anyone in the field, talk to them about what program they went to, whether they liked it, and what was required for admissions. You can also work with your high school guidance counselor to find a program that’s right for you. Locate several possible program options and learn what they require for admission by visiting their website or speaking with their admissions department.[[Image:Become a Medical Technologist Step 4 Version 3.jpg|center]]

#Get your high school diploma. Prepare in high school by taking science classes such as biology and chemistry. Take computer classes, because much of the work in a medical laboratory is done by automated equipment that is controlled by computer programs. Math skills, especially statistics, are also important, so take as much math as you can.<ref>http://learn.org/articles/Medical_Technician_5_Steps_to_Becoming_a_Certified_Medical_Tech.html</ref>[[Image:Become a Medical Technologist Step 5 Version 3.jpg|center]]

===Choosing Your Educational Path===

#Find an accredited program. Find a program in medical laboratory technology that is accredited by the National Accrediting Agency for Clinical Laboratory Sciences. Visit their website at www.naacls.org and select the option for Students, then click Find a Program. Search by state, country, or type of program you want to attend. Select Medical Laboratory Technician in the drop-down menu for Program Type, and search by your location.<ref>http://learn.org/articles/Medical_Technician_5_Steps_to_Becoming_a_Certified_Medical_Tech.html</ref>[[Image:Become a Medical Technologist Step 6 Version 3.jpg|center]]

#*Locate a program that interests you so you can familiarize yourself with their admissions requirements. Start preparing in high school, if you can.

#Earn your Associate’s Degree if you want to start slow. Often a 4-year degree is necessary to become a medical technologist, but a 2-year Associate’s degree can be a good jumping off point.<ref>http://learn.org/articles/Medical_Technician_5_Steps_to_Becoming_a_Certified_Medical_Tech.html</ref> Attend an accredited program and complete all the program requirements.[[Image:Become a Medical Technologist Step 7 Version 3.jpg|center]]

#*Many 4-year programs will accept transfer credits from your Associate’s degree. Speak with the admissions office at the 4-year college you wish to attend in order to find out.

#Get a 4-year Bachelor’s degree. Getting a 4-year Bachelor’s degree can lead to more job opportunities and higher salaries in the future, and some workplaces may require it.<ref>http://learn.org/articles/Medical_Technician_5_Steps_to_Becoming_a_Certified_Medical_Tech.html</ref> Major in medical technology or clinical laboratory science. You will take classes in chemistry, blood science, bacteriology, and other sciences, and have labs to learn about collecting samples, analyzing lab results, and working with lab equipment.[[Image:Become a Medical Technologist Step 8 Version 2.jpg|center]]

#*Some programs will require that you complete an internship or practicum to gain real-world experience. Courses and requirements will vary by program.

===Enhancing Your Prospects and Getting Hired===

#Consider getting an advanced degree. Think about earning a graduate degree if you want to become a laboratory manager or director.<ref>http://learn.org/articles/Medical_Technician_5_Steps_to_Becoming_a_Certified_Medical_Tech.html</ref> A Master’s degree in medical technology, clinical laboratory science, medical research, or a related field can lead to advanced job opportunities and a higher earning potential.<ref>http://www.alliedhealthworld.com/medical-technologist.html</ref>[[Image:Become a Medical Technologist Step 9 Version 2.jpg|center]]

#Rewrite your list of needs. Now that you’ve completed your schooling, re-write your list of career goals. Think again about salary, working hours, career advancement, location, and anything else that matters to you. Your ideas and goals may have changed since before you embarked on this career path.[[Image:Become a Medical Technologist Step 10 Version 2.jpg|center]]

#*Decide if your needs are flexible or strict, so you can narrow down your job search. For instance, “I will not work on weekends,” or, “I’d like a salary over $xx,xxx, but I’ll accept a position with a lower salary.”

#Check in with your connections. If you had an internship or a practicum at a hospital, lab, or doctor’s office, check in to see if they’re hiring. Many people get hired at locations that took part in their education – so be sure to be an excellent student![[Image:Become a Medical Technologist Step 11 Version 2.jpg|center]]

#Find a job. Search for a job by word of mouth by asking professionals you know in the field if they’re aware of any job openings. Visit a resume-building website like Monster.com. Go to the website of your local hospital or lab and search for Career Opportunities to look for jobs.[[Image:Become a Medical Technologist Step 12 Version 2.jpg|center]]

#*Create your resume beforehand so it’s ready. Write a new cover sheet for every position for which you apply.

===Advancing Your Career===

#Consider becoming certified and licensed. Certification assures potential employers that you are competent, and many employers prefer – or even require – technologists who are certified.<ref>http://learn.org/articles/Medical_Technician_5_Steps_to_Becoming_a_Certified_Medical_Tech.html</ref> The requirements for certification and licensure vary by organization and state, but generally you have to pay a fee and pass an exam.<ref>http://www.americanmedtech.org/GetCertified.aspx</ref> Visit www.ascp.org for the American Society for Clinical Pathology to learn about specific certification requirements through their organization.[[Image:Become a Medical Technologist Step 13 Version 2.jpg|center]]

#*Organizations offering certification of medical technologists include the American Society for Clinical Pathology, the American Medical Technologists, the National Credentialing Agency for Laboratory Personnel, and the American Association of Bioanalysts.

#*As of 2011, states requiring licensure include: California, Florida, Georgia, Hawaii, Louisiana, Montana, Nevada, North Dakota, Rhode Island, Tennessee, West Virginia and New York. Puerto Rico also requires that medical technologists be licensed.

#Pursue continuing education opportunities. As technology advances, you will have to learn to use new equipment and computer programs. Most certifications also require that you complete continuing education hours in order to maintain your certification.<ref>http://www.exploremedicalcareers.com/medical-technologist-technician/#educationtechnologist</ref> You can learn about continuing education opportunities through the major professional organizations.[[Image:Become a Medical Technologist Step 14 Version 2.jpg|center]]

#Choose a specialty if you want to. While many medical technologists don't specialize, you may be interested in a specific kind of work. In a small laboratory, a medical technologist will do a variety of tests, but in large laboratories, each will have a specific task based on a specialty.[[Image:Become a Medical Technologist Step 15 Version 2.jpg|center]]

#*For instance, phlebotomists specialize in collecting blood samples, and histologists concentrate on cutting and staining samples so they can be tested by others.

== Warnings ==

* Working in a medical laboratory involves some hazards both from patient samples, which may be infected, and from the materials used to test the samples.

== Related wikiHows ==

*  [[Become a Patient Care Tech at a Hospital]]

*  [[Become a Clinical Laboratory Scientist]]

*  [[Become a Nuclear Medicine Technician]]

*  [[Become a Mental Health Technician]]

== Sources and Citations ==

{{reflist}}

__PARTS__