Phlebotomist Career Plan

It doesn’t take a lengthy course of study to become a phlebotomist, but it’s good to plan ahead in order to make sure the career is right for you and make sure you’re not missing any skills or certificates that you’ll need for the job. Here are some tips to get you started.

1. Make sure you are on track to complete your high school diploma. Take a wide variety of classes. Science is important, but don’t overlook communications. You’ll need a good bedside manner and the ability to make small talk – these are skills that can be developed through classes and extracurricular activities.

2. Do some health careers exploration. You can start by attending a health careers fair or doing job shadowing. Hospitals often have formal observation programs. You may also want to contact your local AHEC center.

3. Get your driver’s license and your CPR certification. (Sometimes phlebotomists need to travel from location to location to do blood draws, so a driver’s license is frequently listed as a requirement.)

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4. Look into phlebotomy programs. Make sure they are accredited by an organization approved by the U.S. Department of Education and that they will qualify you to take certifying exams.

5. Complete your classwork and your clinical requirements.

6. Pursue certification and (if applicable) licensing.

7. Now it’s time to find a phlebotomist job. The National Phlebotomy Association operates an online career center. You have an opportunity to post a resume, including a summary of your skills and attributes – make sure it shines.

Personality Traits: Phlebotomists aren’t afraid of a little blood… or a lot. They have friendly, reassuring personalities and are detail-oriented and conscientious.