How to…Promote your workplace
Show your patients and the public that you are part of a distinct, highly skilled profession by taking pride in your work and your workplace. Remember, you are the ambassador for your profession—broadcast your successes! Inform patients about what the hospital/clinic and department is doing to improve patient care. After a staff meeting, let coworkers know what was accomplished. Communication is so important, yet it is easy to fall into the mindset that everyone already knows what you know. Take any and every occasion to speak positively about your workplace and the profession.
The way medical radiation professionals (MRPs) speak about themselves and their profession has a profound impact on public perception. Be quick to notice and point out positive interactions between coworkers and change the negative images by example. Offer to assist a student, new grad or new employee. Negative attitudes in the workplace send the wrong message to the general public, to others in the health profession, and to MRPs themselves. When coworkers are promoted, celebrate their accomplishment and support them. Talk about the community involvement of your workplace and encourage participation from your patients and coworkers at hospital events.
Display your certification and course diplomas, display the ASMIRT Code of Ethics, and ASMIRT logo. These documents demonstrate that you are part of a national professional Association and illustrate your commitment to professionalism and patient care.

How to…Reach out to your patients
Self-promotion may not come naturally to most MRPs, but it is essential. Unless MRPs are very open about who they are and what services they provide, patients won’t know or understand their role in the health care team. Because of the public misconception that MRPs are nurses or assistants, never miss the opportunity to explain that you are part of a distinct, highly skilled profession.
NRRTW is a great opportunity to start a conversation about the profession with patients. Use the promotional tools provided by ASMIRT: offer them an NRRTW Week sticker and explain who MRPs are and what you do… the different areas MRPs work in…educate them about the essential services you provide in health care. A simple “Did you know that…?” can start a conversation—so don’t be shy!
Use the Mini infographics by adding them to your waiting room, as it briefly explains the role of each discipline and you can draw their attention to them. Ask if they have any questions. If your workplace has a visual display or community fundraiser, invite them to have a look and participate. Refer them to any public promotion regarding NRRTW such as newspaper articles you may have featured in. Thank your patients for their attention and interest.
Make patients and the public aware of the highly esteemed status of certified technologists and therapists. NRRTWs work hard to attain this designation—show the world that they are proud of what they do.

How to…Recognise your co-workers
Recognising the achievements of your co-workers is great way to boost workplace morale and encourage professionalism. Encourage your supervisor to start a monthly recognition program where a deserving team member has a description of their contributions and their picture displayed in a common area. Or ask members within your organisation to provide you with personal stories on their experiences as an MRP then share these experiences through Association or hospital newsletters, local newspapers, or staff meetings.
NRRTW is a great week to profile the achievements of staff – take advantage of the opportunity to include staff details in your information displays. This can help to create a meaningful connection between MRPs and their patients. Let people hear about your facility’s expertise and what vital roles your teams play in the health care sector.
And remember, recognising co-workers can be as easy as saying “thank you”. Creating a better work environment in these simple ways will help demonstrate professionalism and dedication. Patients and other health care workers within your organisation will take notice.

How to…Create visual displays
Display NRRTW promotional materials in your office and other high-traffic areas in the workplace such as entrances, elevators, cafeteria, lounges and waiting rooms leading up to NRRTW. Set up a station where the public can view any collateral your workplace has on a counter or other strategic locations in order to provide easy access to information about the profession. Use the posters, factsheets, stickers provided by ASMIRT to help draw their attention. Make it more personal by including information from your organisation and use your staff members on the stand! Try to have someone available at all times, so they can answer questions and interact with the public, or perhaps during lunch hours may work best for you.