Earning their respect

[shedevil]

I have a question....I'm new to the EMS life (only in it 1 yr)..I'm a member of the Rescue Squad , and an EMT for the local ambulance service. My problem is I've expressed interest in different levels of special rescue & training, but no one takes me seriously...I'm either ignored completely, or just laughed at. How can I get them to take me serious, and respect me for my qualities as an EMS person? I never turn down a job, always pull my own weight, I do my jobs with pride......etc. Thanks!!

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"For he shall give his angels charge over thee, to keep thee in all thy ways."
Psalm 92:11

[Quint1Medic]

Go ahead and sign up for the classes. Take them, take them seriously, and do well. I doubt your gender has anything to do with getting treated like a newbie...there is no end to the line of people that start off talking big and never going anywhere with it! As soon as they see you can talk the talk AND walk the walk, you should see a difference.

[NCRSQ751]

I agree - just go ahead and do it. Don't wait for them to tell you it's ok because that may not happen.

One thing I've learned is that what you learn and what experience you get is really in your own hands. You have to take charge and go get the training you want.

Whether it's because you're new, female or EMS and not fire - who knows? It really doesn't matter why they are blowing you off, you just have to earn that respect by doing.

Start with some basic classes and follow up, practice and train when you are on duty instead of crawling into a recliner. Ask them to join you - even if they say no, they'll be aware of what you are doing.

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Susan Bednar
Captain - Forsyth Rescue
North Carolina Strike Force 1