10 Pieces of Nursing Career Advice You Didn't Know You Needed

Melissa Mills, BSN

Nursing isn't a one job fits all career. There are so many ways to be a nurse, which makes it exciting and challenging. However, all the different pathways you can take can make finding the right fit for your nursing career tricky.

If you're looking for nursing career advice, you're in the right place. We've rounded up some of the best career tips below and hope there are a few on here you've never heard before.

Going Back to School Isn't Always the Answer

If you're unhappy with your job, you might wonder if it's time to return to school to gain more skills and knowledge. However, it's crucial to remember that schooling doesn't always lead to different job opportunities.

Before you apply to school, research the other specialties you're interested in and look at job postings for these roles. Find the educational requirements for applicants who fit the job and see if you already meet them. Another great way to discover what education is needed is to network with professionals in the specialty and find out what degrees or certifications they hold.

Embrace Others' Opinions

Nursing teams can be diverse groups. This diversity can be vast and cause differing opinions. However, these differences aren't weaknesses. On the contrary, they are one of your team's greatest strengths.

So, the next time things get heated in a team meeting, embrace the opinions of others by asking them for more information. It's okay if you still disagree, but be respectful and understanding. These actions can show respect and appreciation for the other professionals you work alongside daily.

Change Leads to Growth

Staying in one job for 20 or more years might make you an expert in one area of nursing. However, you'll likely get bored and tired of the "same old, some old" long before you reach that anniversary. And guess what? It's okay!

Not only is it okay, but changing your job and trying new things will probably propel your career faster than staying in one place. So, don't settle! Don't let fear hold you back if you have a new opportunity on the horizon. Instead, try something new and watch how quickly your knowledge, expertise, and even your salary grow.

Ask for Feedback

Feedback isn't only for your annual performance review. It's one of the critical pieces of information that can help you improve and excel in your nursing practice. So, ask for feedback from your peers, supervisors, colleagues, and even people who report to you. Encourage them to be open and honest with you because this is the kind of feedback that will help you grow.

Questions Show Strength

You've been told all your life that no question is a dumb question. However, have you praised yourself for asking questions even when it felt hard or embarrassing? You should!

Taking time to ask for more information saves lives. So, the next time you worry about calling the doctor, stopping the nurse manager, or spending five minutes looking something up, do it and remind yourself that you're strong and smart!

Tell Others You Appreciate Them Often

Nursing is challenging. Feeling appreciated can be the difference between good and bad days. So, always understand the power of telling someone you appreciate them. And it's that simple. Just saying, "Hey, (insert name here), I appreciate you,” will put a big smile on your colleague's face. Trust us!

Strive to be a Life-long Learner

If you want to be challenged and feel accomplished as a nurse, learn something new. You can take a course, read an article, or listen to a lecture. It doesn't have to be a college-level class to learn something new. But, the feeling you get when you can share your knowledge with others will help you feel job satisfaction and happiness.

Speak Up

If you see something that makes you uncomfortable or know it's wrong - speak up! Calling these situations out is powerful whether you're helping a colleague, patient, or someone else.

You're Never "Just a Nurse"

Nurses are trusted, respected, and essential to the health and well-being of the general public. You worked hard to get your degree and pass the NCLEX so you could write those letters after your name. So, be proud and remember you aren't just a nurse - you are a NURSE!

"I Don't Know" is Always a Good Answer

Nurses are used to having most (if not all) of the answers. However, if you're asked something to which you honestly don't know the answer, say so! "I don't know, but I'll find out" is an appropriate answer to tell a doctor, patient, or another nurse. There is no shame in not knowing, only in never trying to find the answer.

Did this list give you some new or much-needed advice? Or could you add something to make this list complete? Share your thoughts in the comments below.