NursingCenter.com5 Ways to Advance your Nursing Career

As nurses, we often experience unexpected detours in our career journeys, providing us with opportunities to diversify our experiences. Yet, there are times when we may feel stagnant and crave change. For such moments, here are some pivotal steps to advance your nursing career.

Firstly, seize the power of networking. Attend local or international conferences—be they virtual or in-person. Connect with fellow attendees and presenters, ask insightful questions, and exchange contact information. Social media platforms, particularly LinkedIn, also provide an excellent avenue for fostering professional connections, while practicing caution against potential misinformation. Furthermore, consider finding a mentor—a trusted colleague who can guide and support your professional growth.

Secondly, consider joining a committee or board. Back in 2014, the Nurses on Boards Coalition (NOBC) set a goal to fill 10,000 board seats with nurses by 2020. We reached this milestone! Our unique perspective is invaluable in decision-making processes, given our roles as the largest segment of healthcare providers. So, join working groups, committees, boards, councils, or governments to ensure our voice is heard.

Thirdly, achieve specialty certification. Doing so communicates commitment to your education and, consequently, to patient care and outcomes. Certification also boosts your confidence, career advancement, and potentially, your salary. Explore the Guide to Certification to kickstart your certification journey!

Fourthly, contemplate going back to school. The decision may seem daunting, given considerations like timing, finances, and program options. Yet, acquiring an advanced nursing degree not only elevates your professional status but also uplifts the entire nursing community.

Lastly, don’t shy away from seeking new opportunities. Embrace learning, be it from handling complex patients or engaging with new technologies. Consider accepting new roles—be a preceptor, a charge nurse, join or lead a working group. These initiatives will keep you abreast of the latest developments in our ever-evolving field.