Leaving familiar surroundings and people to enter unknown territory can be scary, especially when it comes to your career. Leaving a job where you know the facilities, the norms and the other employees to go to a place where you have to learn these things all over again can make a job transition seem unappealing. However in many situations a job change has more benefits than it does downfalls. In most instances a job transition is the result of pursuing a promising career opportunity. Here at CareerKnacks we are offering the nurses we recruit a new and exciting path for their career, but if you’re nervous don’t worry — here is a list of tips that will help make the transition into your new job as smooth and easy as possible.
Take advantage of your orientation — Ask every question that pops into your head and write everything down in a notepad. Being actively engaged at your orientation will not only help you get to know your new job, but it will help you appear excited and ambitious.
Rely on your mentor — Go to your mentor or other nurses with any uncertainties you might have. It is their job to show you the ropes and help get you feeling comfortable.
Get to know your coworkers — As a nurse, your coworkers are your teammates. It’s important to get to know them so that even the most difficult situations run as smoothly as possible. They are the only other people who know exactly what you’re experiencing at work, so use that connection for support.
Be teachable — Don’t be afraid to ask questions and always be open to constructive criticism and advice.
Stay positive and be confident — Being in a new place can make you feel like you suddenly don’t know anything, but remind yourself of what you’ve accomplished so far and give yourself the credit you deserve. Your new coworkers might even learn a new thing or two from you.
Recharge your batteries — Always make time to relax. Being a nurse is a stressful job, there is no doubt about it. Taking some “you” time will make you a better nurse overall.
Give your new job a fair chance — Before you get too frustrated or scared that you made a poor decision, remind yourself that it will take some time to get accustomed to this new position. Think back to your old job that you were so comfortable in and remember that you were once the new kid there too.
Check out these tips at NurseTogether.com for more advice on transitioning into your new nursing job.