Ask Amy: What's school got to do with it?

Our clinic changed ownership and the new doctor wants to push me behind and use the up-and-coming credentialed technician, even though I've been a technician here for 23 years. I'd love to go back to school, but becoming certified isn't an option for me right now. Is all this fair?

—BAMBOOZLED

DEAR BAMBOOZLED:

It's natural to be upset by the new doctor's actions, especially if they don't make sense to you. Try to put your personal feelings aside—at least at the workplace—and ask yourself why the new doctor is utilizing the new technician more than you. Remember, it's not the years under your belt that matter, but the skills, knowledge, judgment, and other attributes you've gained during those years. Plus, formal schooling often gives team members insight into why things are done, not just how, which may be swaying the doctor's decision.

Make an honest appraisal of your abilities. Which areas do you excel in and which could you improve in? Then do the same for the credentialed technician. How do your skills compare? You may see in your assessment and comparison that she is actually stronger than you. While this may be a hard pill to swallow, at least you'll understand the doctor's choice—and you'll know what areas you need to work on.

If you can't see how the new technician is more qualified than you, talk with the new owner.?Express your interest in and commitment to the job and ask why you aren't getting some of the tasks you used to be assigned. Do this in a professional, non-whiny manner and listen to the response. There may be attributes the credentialed technician has that you didn't know about or this may be your opportunity to tell the new owner about skills he didn't know you had. Either way, you'll gain a better understanding of what the new owner wants and what you need to do to be a success. —AMY