Networking. We hear about it all the time but what exactly is networking and how do you, as a nurse, network? Networking is connecting, collaborating, and maintaining relationships with a group of people. As a nursing student, it can be easy to get caught up in school, clinical rotations, and exams but think of networking as another subject you are studying. It takes time, energy, and practice to network, and according to the U.S Bureau of Labor Statistics, 70 percent of all jobs are found through networking. Therefore, it’s a subject that may be worth the extra time and attention. Below are four ways that you, as a nursing student, can start building your network right now!
Build relationships. Build and maintain relationships with your professors and clinical instructors. Not only are your instructors and professors experts in their field, but at some point you will need references to obtain your first RN position. The stronger your relationship is with your professors and instructors, the more genuine of a reference they will be able to provide for you.
Get involved. Join organizations at school as well as outside of school. Being involved gives you a chance to meet new people, collaborate, and learn something new. To find organizations and clubs, try searching on your school website. You can also reach out to professors and see what clubs they recommend.
Say Yes! Step outside your comfort zone by trying new things. It’s natural when a friend or classmate asks us to do something we haven’t done before we automatically shy away from it. My challenge to you is to say yes! By trying new things, you will diversify your network; not everything you are involved in has to be nursing related. Actually, it’s beneficial to you if it’s not ALL nursing related. Having a diverse network allows room for growth. It allows you to meet people you may not have had the opportunity to meet, and it allows you to learn new ideas that you may not have learned by staying within your comfort zone.
Collaborate with a Student Outreach Coordinator at Aureus! As a Student Outreach Coordinator, I help students and new graduate nurses transition from school into the work force. Not only can I help you find your first RN position but I can also educate you on the market and help you prepare for a career in travel nursing. Start networking now and get in touch with a Student Outreach Coordinator today!
Jessie Friend joined Aureus Medical Group in May 2014 . She earned a Bachelor of Science in Education and Human Sciences and Minor in Communication Studies from the University of Nebraska Lincoln, which makes her role as a Student Outreach Coordinator the perfect fit! In her spare time, Jessie enjoys a good book, taking vacations to the lake, instructing group fitness classes, playing with her two dogs; Joe and Cal, and spending time with family and friends! Her favorite part about being a Student Outreach Coordinator is the phone call she receives from her students when they accept their first RN position!