Top Tactics for Advancing Your Nursing Career

It takes a little work to create a career path that keeps you moving onward and upward.


Nurses rarely begin their careers in the position they want to keep for the rest of their professional lives. Maybe you agreed to take on the night shift – for now. Maybe you're on a floor you're not crazy about. Maybe you just a want a little more responsibility, or a higher salary. Whatever you're dreaming of, now is the time to start working on your career advancement.

■Always have long-term and short-term goals. You need something to work toward that keeps you excited, and you also need something to work toward that you know is achievable and within reach. Write out these goals today.

■Expand and maintain your professional network. Many career advancements occur because the nurse simply knew the right people. Create a good relationship with your bosses, keep in contact with past co-workers or superiors, and expand your reach through social networking or online forums.

■Keep up on the latest advancements in your industry and specialty. When you're a nurse, there is always more to learn! You can't expect your career to advance if you aren't advancing your own education and abilities.

■Don't get too comfortable. A growing career is a changing career. Once you've fallen in a rut your career will go stagnant. Know when you've completed your time in one position and when to move on.