The start of any new career can be intimidating. You’ve studied, passed the necessary exams and put in your training time. What you’re lacking as a new nurse is the experience that others around you might have. You might feel as though they are better nurses, better providers and better resources than you are, but it is possible to build your authority as a new nurse faster than you might think.
Ways to Build Authority
A nurse with authority doesn’t mean someone who is domineering or bossy but rather is the nurse everyone can count on, the one who takes the time to do an exceptional job with each interaction and knows what is expected and helps others reach their goals. Here are some practical ways you can follow in the path of a nurse like that, even when you are new to the field:
1. Become an expert in a few areas.
You won’t be the best at everything in the beginning, but it can be a smart idea to find several specialty areas. You could become the go-to nurse for administering medications, helping younger patients, dealing with certain doctors and a variety of other areas. Your fellow nurses will look to you for guidance and support when completing those tasks.
2. Take an extra certification or class.
When you take the time to learn more than what is standard, you’ll naturally stand out as an authority when you are able teach and explain processes to others.
3. Write a blog or create a social media presence where you share information.
Think along the lines of public service announcements, wellness practices, preventative healthcare tips and even explaining new legislature in easy-to-understand terms.
4. Engage with experts in your field.
Ask to shadow a more senior nurse and learn what they know. They will know more about the ins and outs of your particular practice and can offer insights on how you can be more efficient as a nurse. By demonstrating you want to learn, will work longer hours to learn and put into practice what you learn, you’ll garner the respect of those around you.
5. Get to know the staff around you and even those in other facilities nearby.
The more your name comes up as “an amazing nurse,” the more you’ll be seen as an authority in your field. Working hard to build relationships with those around you as well as those in neighboring areas can give you the credibility you need to move forward in your career.
Stay humble and work hard in your new career.
With time, your efforts will be recognized. At Nurse Backpack, our goal is to make your life as simple as possible, so you can focus on what matters – saving lives! The Nurse Backpack app helps you stay organized while tracking all your professional credentials and personal information. If you’re looking for a way to streamline your career, give the app a try today.
