Top 10 Ways CDM, CFPPs Can Be Effective Preceptors for Dietary Manager Students
List Compiled by: Angela Brekken, EdD, MS, RD, LD, CLC, FAND
1. Be willing! Identifying a willing preceptor can be a struggle for some Pathway I students. The CDM, CFPP can partner with the Registered Dietitian (RD) to precept students on topics regarding foodservice management and food safety/sanitation; the RD would then tag-team to cover the nutrition topics.
2. Provide space. Many of us are all too familiar with a tiny kitchen office. However, try to carve out space for your student. When possible, provide the student with desk space and computer access. Work with your IT team to make sure they have access to the documents and software needed for their success.
3. Review your student’s preceptor guide. The student’s preceptor guide is supplied by their program and provides the roadmap to a successful program completion. It tells you who to contact if you have questions about the course expectations, what is expected of you, and what is expected of the student.
4. Make introductions. Introduce your student to the kitchen and interdisciplinary teams. This will help encourage a welcoming environment for the student to thrive.
5. Encourage action! Observing is fine, but “doing” can create an unforgettable experience. Involve the student in as many tasks as possible. Demonstrate a task and then let them try. Hands-on learning beats spectating any day of the week.
6. Plan learning activities with your student. Turn student assignments into a win-win opportunity by aligning their coursework with facility needs. For example, use their QAPI assignment to finally launch a client satisfaction program or tackle food temperature complaints.
7. Give frequent feedback. Regular, constructive check-ins can help your student know what’s working and where they can improve. It will help them not only complete their program, but to grow into a confident leader. And don’t forget to flip the script; give them a chance to provide you with feedback. Are you giving them the support, tools, and encouragement they need to succeed? These two-way conversations can help you both make real-time adjustments to meet your shared destination – successful program completion and eventually adding to the ranks of CDM, CFPPs.
8. Lead by example. Show the student what professionalism looks like in all interactions. Consider how you interact with staff, handle stressful situations, and problem-solve in your everyday work. Students not only listen to what you say, but they watch what you do.
9. Be a storyteller. Wrapping lessons in stories is a sure-fire way to make them “stick.” Tell the stories of wins or losses, and the “you’ll never believe this” situations. A student may not remember reviewing a policy, but they will remember a story that illustrates it.
10. Have an open-door policy. Remember back to your days as a “new student on the block.” Your student is probably currently in those same non-slip and closed-toe shoes. Let your students know that you are there to help them succeed by keeping your door, time, and mind open. Be the supportive person you needed as a student.Encourage action! Observing is fine, but “doing” can create an unforgettable experience. Involve the student in as many tasks as possible. Demonstrate a task and then let them try. Hands-on learning beats spectating any day of the week.
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