Changing jobs too much??

[amalay, MSN, RN]

I know everyone has a different opinion on this but I'd love to hear input from the very experienced and the newbs like me. I'm a primary care pediatric NP who recently just switched jobs. I spent just over 2yrs at my first job out of school, then moved on because I wasn't happy there.

I JUST started at my 2nd job but have doubts of how long I'll stay in primary care. I do want to go back to get my acute care in the next year or so, unless I get a "dream job" somewhere (but that's the millennial in me speaking). Would it look bad if I were to only stay at my 2nd job for 1-2yrs and then either go part time for school or start applying to other jobs?

I ideally want to work inpatient, but didn't know the difference when I first applied to NP school, which is how I ended up in pediatric primary care. Any advice on how I can make the transition to a more inpatient role?

[eymilin]

I don't think it would hurt to go part time if you have the option. Remaining employed looks good on the resume and you can support your way through school. If acute care clinicals get in the way of work you can always change it up at that time.

[amalay, MSN, RN]

What about thoughts on switching jobs? If I were to continue searching for a more supportive position as an NP, would it look bad to employers if I had two jobs of only 1-2yrs on the resume?

[traumaRUs, MSN, APRN]

It depends on the area. I live in the midwest and in my area (central IL) everyone knows everyone. If you get a reputation as a "job hopper" it doesn't matter how many certifications you have, you won't be employable.

I work in a specialty group and we look for longevity when we hire - however, our orientation is 4-6 months in length so we want some type of realistic expectation that the person will make it worth our while.

[amalay, MSN, RN]

What would longevity be to most of you? 2+ years or even more?

I feel bad that primary care doesn't seem to be my "thing". I can't tell if it's because I've just gotten jobs with very poor management and low morale (very high turnover for all staff), but I'd ideally want to do any extra schooling or major career shifts before I'm 30, which doesn't leave me a whole lot of time at this current job...but I also don't want it to hurt me by switching again after 2 yrs or so

[traumaRUs, MSN, APRN]

It depends on the area - obviously you've been able to obtain other jobs so it may be a good NP market in your area. In some areas getting ONE job let alone two or three is difficult.

Just make sure you don't burn bridges: give plenty of notice, don't badmouth prior employers, etc...work gets around really quick...