When you’re swimming with a sea of other nurses in
the quest to find a job/promotion, who all “look” alike, you need to give
yourself the added edge. One way of doing this is by making sure your resume
includes one critical element.
I’ve reviewed and continue to review hundreds of
student/new and experienced nurse resumes. I review them as part of my coaching
packages (I offer career/success coaching a limited number of nurses), when I’m
hiring for a position/internship, or when I’m looking to give an opportunity to
someone. Like many recruiters, when faced with a hundred resumes for only 20
positions, I go through a weeding process.
What is the first thing I look for?
Is
it experience? Nope
Is
it a high GPA (for students)? Nope
Is
it how many letters of recommendation or references they provide? Nope
The first look for is to see if they belong to a
professional nursing organization. This can be their student organization if
they are still in school, their state association or any national organization.
When
I see that they belong – they go into my “maybe” pile. And then I review for
other things.
When
I don’t see any evidence that they belong to an organization – they go
immediately into my “no” pile.
Why?
Because it tells me and everyone else who might be
in the position to hire you that you are serious about your role as a nurse.
Nursing isn’t a job – it’s a professional career. Getting involved in a
professional nursing organization is one way to demonstrate this.
What are the benefits?
·
Continuous
learning – most organizations
include a journal, newsletter or some other content to help their members learn
and grow. As a member, you also may get access to their archives of previous
journal articles, convention presentations, videos, etc. Your success depends
on your ability to commit to continuous learning.
·
Networking – the networking opportunities at the local,
regional and national level are limitless! If you haven’t realized this,
networking is the key to everything!!! Your success depends on your ability to
network with other successful nurses.
·
Endless
opportunities – organizations
are always looking to get their members involved. Whether it’s as simple as
providing feedback on their nursing experience to getting involved on a
committee – belonging to an organization gives you more options to develop your
skills. Your success depends on your ability to get involved.
ACTION STEP: Find
an organization that fits with your career goals and JOIN! Click here to access
a list of professional nursing organization. If you’re overwhelmed and not sure, here are a few
suggestions:
·
If you are a
medsurg nurse, join AMSN
·
If you are a
critical care nurse, join AACN
·
If you are a
student nurse, join your university organization and NSNA
·
If you’re
still not sure, just join your state organization.
If
you still need guidance, feel free to comment below. I’d love to help you swim in the right direction!
Thanks
so much for choosing to become a nurse! I’m cheering for your success.
Renee
To get a copy of my eBook titled, "Survive and Thrive: A guide helping new nurses succeed", click here!
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