Finding the perfect job in any industry can feel overwhelming. The same is true for nurses. A recent survey found that over 90% of nurses feel like the nursing shortage is getting worse.
Healthcare is not an easy field to work in. If you are having feelings of overwhelm, there are things you can do that are in your control. No matter why you feel the way you do it’s important to remember you are not alone. There are resources that exist for nurses like you.
This article will help you understand what really matters to you and your career. We will take a look at why it’s important to find your dream nursing job. You’ll learn why it’s so important, as well as the steps you can take to land your dream job. Let’s get started.
Why does finding your dream nursing job matter?
Healthcare is a difficult industry to work in. As a healthcare provider you are responsible for so much that is out of your control.
Finding a position that allows you to feel like you are part of a bigger team is an important factor when it comes to job satisfaction. By placing yourself in a position that aligns with your goals and values, you can minimize your risk of becoming dissatisfied.
According to the WHO burnout is a syndrome “resulting from chronic workplace stress.” Burnout in healthcare is at record highs. Finding the role that fulfills you is an important piece to career satisfaction.
Symptoms of burnout include feelings of:
● Exhaustion.
● Depletion of energy.
● Feelings of cynicism related to one’s job.
So, what can you do if you are experiencing these symptoms and you’re ready for change? One way would be to change your work environment. If that isn’t an option, learning how to manage stress could be helpful.
Stress Management Techniques for Nurses
With so much out of your control while on the clock, it’s important to rest and recharge as much as possible when off. While stress all together is unavoidable, there are ways you can minimize its effects.
Managing stress is a very individualized process and will look different for everyone. If not properly processed, stress can lead to physical and mental health problems. You know yourself better than anyone. Learn what works best for you.
Resources are available when you feel you need them. Let’s take a look at a few ways you can manage stress.
● Mind and Body Techniques
● Mental Health Resources
● Diet and Exercise
● Participating in Hobbies
● Sleep and Rest
These can all help you create a clearer mind. This can allow you to better understand why you want the changes that you do for yourself. This step in the process can save you a lot of time and frustration so it’s important not to skip it.
Steps to Find Your Next Nursing Job
Even if the next job you land isn’t your dream job, it could be a step in the right direction. Your next nursing job is out there waiting for you. All you have to do is figure out what you want and go get it. Let’s look at the steps you can take to stand out from the crowd.
Step 1: Figure out what you want out of your next job.
It’s your license and you’re the one who is in control of it. What is it that you want out of your next position?
Do you want a more flexible schedule and you need to change employers in order to find it? Or do you want to change specialties and need to figure out what specialty you want to end up in first?
What are the reasons behind your want for this change? Once you can answer that question it will be much easier to find a job that can fulfill your needs.
Step 2: Do your research.
Every organization hires differently. Do some research on the place and setting you feel will align with what you are looking for in your next position. Understanding and aligning with the values of the organization you work for is important.
Step 3: Network with other healthcare professionals.
Networking has many benefits. Teamwork is everything in healthcare. Without it, nothing would ever get done. And your network could help you land your next job.
Talk with other healthcare professionals who have worked where you want to or within the same specialty you want to be in. Information from current or past employees can help give you an idea as to the culture you may be stepping into.
Step 4: Get your paperwork in order.
There are many open positions available to nurses who want them. It’s your job to align with the one you want most. Personalize a resume and cover letter to explain why you want the position you are applying for.
Another way is to show initiative. If you want to switch specialties, is there a certificate you can take to show you are serious? What information can you review before your interview to sound more knowledgeable?
How to Find Your Dream Nursing Job.
There are many ways you can increase your chances of landing your dream nursing position. Here are a few you can try:
Reflect on what really matters to you. Think about the core principles you want to base your career off of. Being honest with yourself here is important to getting to where you truly want to be.
Let go of expectations of what you think your nursing career should look like. There is no wrong way to be a nurse. Whatever you decide for yourself is the right choice. Don’t be afraid to do things a little differently than the rest.
How to Find Nursing Jobs Near Me?
There are many ways you can find your next nursing job. Online job platforms, company websites, and word of mouth referrals are all a good place to start.
There are many benefits to networking and being proactive along the way. There are openings across the U.S. for every level of nursing education out there. Your perfect job is out there. Online job platforms like America Needs Nurses can help you in your search.
How America Needs Nurses Can Help
At America Needs Nurses we believe in placing every nurse in their dream nursing job. As an online healthcare staffing agency we work exclusively with nurses. We are an online job platform that allows nurses to browse local job opportunities at the touch of a button.
Are you interested in changing career paths? Want to find your next nursing position? Sign up here to stay up to date on the latest nursing jobs in your area.