If you are looking to pursue a career in nursing, or advance in your current nursing career, there are several steps you can take in order to achieve your career goals. Nurses are in high demand and the profession is rich with opportunities. If this challenging and rewarding career is something you are interested in, there has never been a better time to enter the profession.
Nursing career goals
According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, nursing roles are projected to grow in the next eight years. With this kind of growth comes competition for the most desired positions, so having clear goals in place to guide your path will put you one step ahead of most. When you set your goals, you need to look at what you want to do both in the short-term and the long-term, so you are always working towards your end goal. Some career goals that you can set for a career in nursing include:
Keep up with changing technology in healthcare
The only constant when it comes to technology is that it is constantly evolving, so keeping an eye on new innovations is important to advance your career. By subscribing to nursing blogs, technology websites and online courses, you can keep current on the latest trends in the industry and prepare to be a leader in your profession.
Obtain nursing certifications and advanced degrees
When you are passionate about your career, then learning is something that lasts a lifetime. When you are serious about advancing in nursing, learning can also be done online with one of many reputable schools that offer master’s and certification courses. Professional nurses who are also on track for leadership roles should consider certificates and degrees such as Wilkes’ RN-MSN online program. Here you can apply for online courses that will allow you to earn an MSN degree in order to become a nurse practitioner. Nurse practitioners are true leaders in the industry and hold a place of esteem within the healthcare system.
Find a mentor
Finding a mentor who is willing to support and teach you the traits of leadership and help you get to the next step in your career is invaluable. There may be a mentor program available at your place of work you can join, or perhaps you already know and admire someone who has climbed the ranks in your chosen career that you can emulate. Having a mentor you can ask for advice can be one of the most important goals you can achieve that will help you on your way to the career of your dreams.
Other goals to consider in a nursing career include:
- Becoming a mentor
- Self-care
- Teaching
- Leadership programs
- Volunteer work
Nursing is not just a job, but a challenging and rewarding calling that depends on compassion, knowledge and expertise. You are helping your community, your patients and your colleagues when you commit fully to this dynamic career.
