Breaking into Nurse Cliques

llg, PhD, RN · Mar 15, 2007

The cliques in nursing are not much different than the are in other walks of life. People who work together regularly get comfortable with each other, learn to trust each other, hang out together, etc. --- particularly if they have a lot in common (such as being of a similar age, having children of the same age, etc.)

The trick is to not take it personally. It's not a rejection of you, it's simply that you are the "new person" and they don't know you well. You don't share a history with them and they don't know if you are going to stick around long enough to develop a history with them.

I recommend not trying to "break into" anything. Don't try to force relationships. Let them evolve naturally and gradually over time. As you share common experiences with the staff (weather problems that forced you to stay at the hospital overnight ... that crazy patient who caused all those problems ... that time so-and-so got all upset about such-and-such ... etc.) you will gradually become part of the group. The people hired at the same time you are hired and with whom YOU share much in common will form your own social group. Eventually, the new people will see you as one of the "old staff."

That's all just part of the cycle of life.

Daytonite, BSN, RN · Mar 15, 2007

from my life experience, the only people who worry about cliques are those who are unsure of themselves. this is not a subject that i hear mature adults express much concern about. how old are you?

muffie, RN · Mar 16, 2007

a plate of brownies and answering the odd call bell that isn't yours will get you noticed by staff and make you easy to like

Florence NightinFAIL, BSN, RN · Mar 16, 2007

Thank you for responding Muffie & llg. I'm concerned because your work can be affected by the attitude and relationship with your co-workers. And and by 'breaking in' I meant how do you try to form good relations with your fellow workers as a newbie and navigate potential problems that might arise.

Daytonite: I'm old enough to ask questions when I want to know something and I'm presuming that your old enough to know better. If your not going to contribute constructively then I suggest you keep quite. If your a nurse, then I feel sorry for your poor patients. You must belittle them when they ask questions. Grow up already.

Columnist · Mar 16, 2007

I think that the OP has brought up a very interesting topic that is applicable to all working relationships.

I must caution everyone to remember that while it is alright to disagree on this board, it is not alright to insult one another just because you disagree with them. We strive to maintain a flame-free atmosphere here at allnurses. Personal attacks will not be tolerated. Please be courteous in your comments.

tnbutterfly

Moderator allnurses.com

Trauma Columnist · Mar 16, 2007

Hi Fawzia - great subject btw. I too agree with the majority - these are established relationships and you are the "new guy." My husband was in the military so I've had to change jobs more often than I would like. My usual way of doing it is to introduce myself, let people know my experience level and that I'm there to help. I never ever say "its not my job" or "they did it better at my last hospital." THese are both great ways to not break into these relationships.

I like Muffie's idea (though for me to bake would not be appreciated - lol). By showing kindness and genuine interest in your co-workers and the unit, you can successfully transition into any new job. I try to believe the best in people too. Having a positive attitude that things will go RIGHT prevent them from going WRONG.

Good luck in school.

Tweety, BSN, RN · Mar 16, 2007

llg offers good advice.

It just takes time to establish yourself and be comfortable in a new job environment with new people who are already know each other. Being yourself, being friendly, and letting them know you are a team player by offering to help, asking for help (the hardest for a new grad), and jumping right in, will make things easier.

IrishIzCPNP, MSN, RN, APRN, NP · Mar 16, 2007

I honestly think it's important go in with a smile, friendly attitude, desire to learn and help. I think you need to make sure you realize that you are new, you are right out of school and that they are probably able to teach you more then you can teach them. So be open to them, ask them questions, ask for help...don't try to do on your own things that you are unsure of.

Don't go in and think you know it all, that you are the best and you don't need them.

Brownies, cakes, cookies...always a plus.