Expanding ‘Who You Know’

“It’s not what you know; it’s who you know.”

Many of you are graduating and preparing to take your NCLEX to fulfill your goal of becoming an RN. Others of you are wrapping up the semester with more to come in pursuit of that goal. You’re learning a whole lot in the world of ‘what you know’, but are you prepared for the ‘who you know?’ In a very competitive market for new grad RNs, networking can play a key role in your ability to get your foot in the door and land that first RN position. It will also help you build lasting relationships in your professional development.

So, just who are these people? Focus on people with industry or facility knowledge. Your career services office often has relationships with local employers. Your clinical supervisors and mentors, since they see you in action, are great for post-graduation support and can often connect you with people they know. Consider joining your state chapter of the American Nurses Association or other professional associations. These are wonderful tools to keep you informed of new advances in nursing as well as to provide a plethora of contacts, opportunities, and support. LinkedIn and other social media provide ample networking capabilities to share thoughts and connect with nurses, managers, and agencies. Of course, learn something from everyone. Ultimately, you’ll want to associate yourself with positive people, regardless of title or position, who can help shape you into the nurse you want to be.

When expanding your network, have a plan and take action. At work, take the initiative to chat with preceptors and managers to get to know them and show willingness to learn new things. Help others when you can. Whether on the floor or assisting other new grads and students, extend yourself as a reliable resource. Perhaps invite someone to lunch to get to know them better. At events, commit to meet a specific number of new people. Always be professional and dress appropriately, especially if the event requires a more business professional attire. Saying hello, giving firm handshakes, and remembering names goes a long way. Following up goes even farther. It helps people associate you beyond just one encounter and into more of a working professional relationship. Find reasons to keep in touch! Once you’ve begun connecting with people, don’t forget to keep everyone up to date on your job search if you are looking.

Having a network for you to contribute to as well as draw from will be an important tool throughout not only your career but also your life. It can help you find jobs; even ones you didn’t know were available. Building strong relationships with managers and supervisors can result in powerful references and invites to come back to a facility either on contract or in a more permanent position. And, of course, you can receive support and job information by staying connected with your Student Outreach Coordinator here at Aureus!

Veronica Goodwin, also known as V, started with Aureus Medical Group as an Account Manager in September 2011. In May 2013, V stepped into the role of Nursing Student Outreach Coordinator. Prior to Aureus Medical, she worked as a Branch Manager with Enterprise Rent-A-Car. With a Bachelor of Arts degree in Graphic Design and Minor in Problems of Philosophy from Creighton University, V has a creative outlook on the world and enjoys sharing that with others. In her downtime, V can be found with friends or family, traveling, photographing nature and gardening, reading, and learning about various wellness theories.

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