Telling My Manager I Would Like To Transfer

[NightNerd, MSN, RN]

Hey guys, looking for advice/wording suggestions on telling my manager I would like to transfer internally - to a non-bedside position, if that matters.

I'll have been here for six months next month (I cannot find a specific transfer policy but I'm guessing six months is the minimum), and this unit is not a great fit for me. Additionally, I finished my MSN last Spring, and while I had wanted to stay bedside for a little bit longer, there is an open position that would help me gain work experience in the area I'm hoping to move to at some point.

It's a little sticky since I did accept a sign-on bonus, but I'm really struggling to get myself motivated for each shift, and I can see the quality of my work starting to dip. I'd rather move into something I can find some amount of energy for, rather than keep this up and feel like I'm doing less and less for my patients.

How would you approach this with a manager? What would you focus on when explaining the decision to apply for another position?

Thanks!

[RNNPICU, BSN, RN]

Make sure about that six months, many times it is 6 months after orientation, or 6 months after the probation period, not six months from date of hire.  Also, with a sign-on bonus, even if you internally transfer you may need to pay it back since it was for the position you are hired for, Also, you may not qualify as an internal candidate given your lack of experience at the current facility. 

[Davey Do]

7 hours ago, NightNerd said:

How would you approach this with a manager?

Utilize a universal tact, NightNerd.

I always felt better about ending a relationship the girl I was dating said, "It's not you, it's me".

Kidding. Sort of.

Advice gained from real life situations says that cards need to be laid on the table, goals identified, an attitude of open compromise voiced, but the bottom-line goal will be that which is sought. Last ditch effort ultimatums need to voiced before closing the book on this baby.

Good luck, NightNerd!

[John2018]

First of all, review your contract before discussing anything about the shift of position to your manager. You may also want to include your reason which is a very sound reason, you want growth, and it can only happen if you get the chance to move or transfer to that area.

[klone, MSN, RN]

Agree with the others that you should get all your ducks in a row (how long before transfer, do you have to pay back your sign-on bonus) before talking to your manager.