What is my boss finds out I'm applying for another job?

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Hi Nurse Beth, so I just made over a year working as a Med/Surg acute care RN in a hospital. I know now that I want to move away from the bedside, but have had absolutely no luck getting even interviews for anything away from the bedside for the past couple months of applying. Well, a new job posting just opened up internally, for a case management position. The problem is, that I am 1 year short of the required experience. Is it worth submitting interest and letting my manager know on the off chance I get an interview? I'm worried that if I don't get the job, that my boss will now know I have one foot out of the unit and will either treat me differently/at the worst fire me. Would appreciate your wisdom, thank you!

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Specializes in Tele, ICU, Staff Development.

Dear Worried,

That's a great question.

In general, it is not recommended to inform your boss about interviewing for another job since interviews may or may not result in a job offer. However, there are exceptions, such as when your boss will be used as a reference.

However, if it's within the same organization, your boss will hear about the application, so it's better to be transparent.

You could talk with your manager to express your interest and discuss your career goals. During your conversation with your manager, you can emphasize that you are exploring different career paths but are committed to fulfilling your current responsibilities while actively seeking new opportunities.

Every workplace is unique, so consider the culture and dynamics of your specific organization when making decisions about expressing your career intentions. Some managers appreciate employees who are proactive about their career development.

However, in healthcare and nursing management, many managers are doing everything they can to staff their units with other than brand-new graduates. They may not take the news that you are leaving positively.

It's unlikely your manager would go so far as to fire you, a one-year nurse, because you are valuable. But depending on your manager, it's possible they would think of you as a flight risk. She may try to retain you by giving you preceptor or charge nurse responsibilities, or conversely, not consider you for advancement because she considers you a flight risk.

I wish I could give you a more definitive answer. It's essential to gauge your organization's culture and your manager's response and adjust your approach accordingly.

Is applying for a case management job worth it if you don't meet the qualifications? While you could gain valuable interviewing experience, your chances of getting the job may be low, mainly if multiple applicants exist. As a former manager, I would also prefer an applicant to have at least two years of experience. Note: if this were an outside position, I'd say try.

You could use this time over the next year to build relevant skills and experiences to make you a stronger candidate for non-bedside roles. Attend workshops, take online courses, and seek out opportunities for professional development.

Best wishes,

Nurse Beth

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