Starting a new job
How to adjust when moving to a new medical facility
The nursing profession allows for great career flexibility and advancement, but sometimes that requires leaving your current health care organization for a new opportunity. If you’re starting a new nursing role, you know the feelings of anxiety and self-doubt that come with the process. Have you made the right decision? Will this new opportunity really be the right step for you? These feelings are completely natural. The key to overcoming them will be getting off on the right foot as you transition into your new role. Read on for tips on how to navigate a career progression in the nursing field.
DON'T GO IT ALONE
At this point in your career, you have likely found some mentors. Rely on them for advice and guidance as you make your next career move. Ask for help in researching the organization and its leadership staff already in place. If your mentor has been in the industry long enough, he or she might know some of the staff members at your new workplace. Leveraging these kinds of relationships can give you a big head start as you enter a new job.
BUILD IMMEDIATE BONDS
Walk into your new organization with the goal of forming new relationships from day 1. Be open and honest in your conversations as you learn the ropes. Admit to your feelings of discomfort associated with taking on a new role. Your team members will rally around you to make sure you’re at ease. Socialization is crucial to forming these bonds, so do not turn down opportunities to get together after work. These offhours sessions can be instrumental in building team camaraderie.
SET GOALS
Do you have some immediate and long-term goals in taking this new role? Maybe you’re focused on becoming a charge nurse in the emergency room or earning a master’s degree in nursing through night courses as you hold down regular hours. Whatever your priorities, it is important to have goals with your new organization. Communicate these objectives to your superiors so they can advocate for you and cheer you on as you succeed.