As with most careers, obtaining a position in the nursing field is based not only on skills and education but also timing. Being in the right place at the right time to be placed into the position you really want is about who you know and your network.  Top-notch medical facilities rarely have a need to advertise for their open positions as they have an established candidate base from which to pull, and sometimes they will hire internally from their existing staff or request referrals from within the teams. If you know someone at the facility, there is a strong chance you will hear about the open position but if not, the position may be filled within a short amount of time and with no outside advertising.

As a healthcare professional, you may not think of networking as an important part of your job. It is a common misconception to assume networking is only critical for jobs in sales or marketing but every professional should have a personal network that they continuously grow and manage.

4 Ways to Ensure You Have the Necessary Connections in Your Industry

1. Social media.
   More than just for personal connections, social media can connect you to others in your field without the awkward mixers and business functions. Healthcare professionals usually have sporadic schedules so making time to meet others in a physical setting can be difficult but connecting online is fast and easy. Use sites like LinkedIn and search specifically for those in your field with whom to connect.
2. Stand out.
   While you are at your job, go above and beyond what is asked of you to be noticed. Stellar employees stand out and networks are put into place as your name begins to be recognized and you are referred to better positions within the organization. You may be asked to join other teams on special projects and your network will grow quickly. Don’t turn down the chance to make a lateral move within your field to learn more as a nursing professional as well as increase your network.
3. Be nice.
   This may sound simple but those in the nursing field should be friendly to their co-workers. Not only to increase their network but also to be a more effective healthcare provider. As your fellow team members become friends rather than just acquaintances, they will be more likely to alert you to a better position or be available as a resource for a recommendation.
4. Help others.
   When you help others network and achieve a new position, you are paying it forward and they are more likely to remember you if something comes up that would be a good fit for you. Giving to others is a great feeling and it can increase not only confidence but also your network.

Networking is not difficult when you work with people on a daily basis such as in the field of nursing. You have a continuous opportunity to make a positive impression and change lives, which is something people don’t forget quickly. As a nurse, you should make the effort to maintain a network of professional references and friends so you have the chance to move up in your career as the opportunities arise.

Looking to Grow Your Network?
Contact our team of professionals today for more information on the benefits of partnering with our team when applying for a job in San Antonio.

Regardless of where you are in your medical career, you can always learn and become a more efficient provider.  In the healthcare industry, there are ways to daily ways to improve, so you can consistently ensure each patient has the best possible outcome for their needs. The healthcare field is ever changing and without support and knowledge, you may feel lost or even be on the receiving end of misguided career advice.  A career mentor is someone who can guide you through tough choices and be the sounding board you need when faced with difficulties in your professional life. Sometimes your family or co-workers won’t understand your work conflicts, or you simply cannot discuss sensitive issues with them as they are too close to the situation. Having an objective mentor you can call will make a big difference in your future career choices.

How Can a Mentor
Assist Your Career Growth?

An objective third party may seem more like a personal benefit and not one that will help your career but this type of mentor for your professional life is different than just a friend. Choosing a mentor who is familiar with your field and even an authority of their own in the field can prove to be beneficial. If you are contemplating working with a career mentor, here are three ways a mentor can help you in your career:

1. Knowledge resource.
   A mentor should have more experience in the job field and more years in the industry than your average co-worker. Their knowledge stems from more education and real life situations, with an emphasis on the day-to-day decisions that are made in the healthcare industry. Your career can be improved through their knowledge of new procedures and trends within the industry and you can become a stronger provider, possibly leading to better positions in the field.  You can always learn about your field and possibly through their varied viewpoints, you will become better educated.
2. Honest opinions.
   Criticism can be hurtful but what if you could hear something constructive about your career from someone you know and trust? Honesty is critical to the foundation of a mentor relationship and this person can give you career insight so you can improve, not just to be mean. Think of your mentor as holding up a mirror to your career and you are able to see the flaws and problems clearly in order to change accordingly. It is not done to belittle you but rather reveal your shortcomings in the spirit of improvement.
3. Safe zone.
   How many times have you resisted the urge to vent about your job to co-workers or even your family to avoid causing more problems? A career mentor will listen to the problems and offer advice. You may feel on the verge of leaving a medical facility due to mismanagement or other internal problems, only to get the advice from your mentor to stick it out. The mentor can help you decide if it is time to move on or make a lateral career move based on the information you provide, which can be as detailed as you want to share. After all, they are usually not involved with your organization.

Looking for Employment in San Antonio?
Contact the expert allied health recruiters at Pinnacle Workforce Corporation today for more information!