CHAPTER 14 YOUR NURSING CAREER

Objectives: Upon completion of this topic, the student will be able to: 1. Complete a SWOT analysis. 2. Identify methods to initiate a job search. 3. Describe how to become a career survivalist. 4. Discuss the common skills that employers have identified as important to bring to a position.

5. Explain why it is important to research a potential employer. 6. Discuss various aspects of the resume: reasons for preparing a resume, the essential components of a resume, objective, education, and skills and experience. 7. Examine the principles of writing job related letters- cover letters, thank-you letter, acceptance letter, rejection letter.

8. Explain the interview process - initial interview, answering questions, background questions, professional questions vs. personal questions, appearance, hand-shake, eye contact, listening skills, asking questions, the do's and don'ts of interviewing, and the second interview. 9. Discuss the factors considered in making the right job selection - job content, development, direction, work climate, compensation.

10. Identify and discuss methods of ensuring a successful first year at a job - attitude and expectations, impressions and relationships, organizational savvy, and skills and knowledge. 11. Apply concepts related to career, and critical thinking to client scenarios and

Getting Started SWOT Strengths Weaknesses Opportunities Threats

The SWOT analysis is an in-depth look at what will make you happy in your work. The acronym SWOT stands for: A. Stop, Waiting, Opportunities, Tries B. Strengths, Work preferences, Opportunities, Tries C. Strengths, Weaknesses, Opportunities, Threats D. Stagnant, Weaknesses, Options, Threats

Career survivalist focuses... On be psychologically self employed On learning for employability On planning for your financial future On developing multiple options On building a safety net

What do employers think you need to be ready to work for them? Motivation, initiative, and flexibility Critical thinking and analytical skills Computer knowledge Problem-solving and decision-making ability Self discipline Organizational skills Ability to assume responsibility Interpersonal skills Proficiency/ competence Teamwork ability Willing to work hard Leadership abilities

Who is your employer? Review mission statement Philosophy and Objectives of Nursing Talk to others Internet search

Resume Self-advertisement First impression Demonstrates potential Identifies strong points Gives you credit Reminder Provides initial introduction Guides

Resume Essentials Standard Chronological Functional Objective School Experience Qualifications

A resume is your personal data sheet A resume is your personal data sheet. Helpful tips when preparing a resume include: A. Using a fancy binder that includes pictures B. Stating salary information and marital status C. Providing educational background, and it should be no more than two pages D. Using a small font and listing hobbies

Job Search Letters Cover, Thank you, Acceptance, Rejection State purpose Most important first Organized Group similar items together Personalize Be direct and brief Use active voice Be positive and optimistic Address individual if possible Be honest

The Interview Know the organization Why should they hire you? What kind of employee will you be? How long will you stay? What are your weaknesses?

Professional Questions What is your philosophy of nursing? What is your greatest weakness? Where do you see yourself in 5 years? What are your educational goals? Describe your leadership style? What can you contribute to this position? What unique skills do you offer? What are you salary requirements What “if” questions

Personal Questions How would you describe yourself? How would your peers describe you? What would make you happy with this position? Describe your ideal work environment? Describe hobbies, community activities, and recreation

Questions that may lead to discrimination… age, gender, race, religion, ethnicity… are illegal

Other Appearance Handshake Eye contact Posture Listening

Additional Question Tips Do not begin with questions about vacation, benefits, or sick leave Begin with questions about the employer’s expectations of you Be sure you know enough about the position to make a reasonable decision

Questions What is this position’s key responsibility What are the challenges of the position? Why is this position open? Why did the previous person leave this position? What are your expectations? What are the opportunities for professional growth are available? How, when, and by whom are evaluations done?

The Second Interview Dress professionally Be professional and pleasant Do not smoke Remember “table manners” Avoid controversial topics for small talk

Obtaining a second interview means that the first interview went well Obtaining a second interview means that the first interview went well. Pointers to making a second interview successful may include: A. Wearing open-toed shoes or sandals B. Smoking while discussing controversial topics C. Dressing professionally and remembering your manners D. None of the above

When asking job questions during a job interview, begin with asking about: A. Vacation and benefits B. Sick time and leaves of absence C. The employer's expectations of you D. Family and common friends

Making the Right Choice Job content Development Direction Work climate

The Critical First Year Adopt the right attitudes, and adjust your expectations Manage a good impression, and build effective relationships Develop organizational savvy Master the skills and knowledge of the position

Career opportunities are influenced by first impressions Career opportunities are influenced by first impressions. To help ensure first-year success, it is important to: A. Not become a team player B. Discourage mentors C. Adopt the right attitude and manage a good impression D. Be a know-it-all

Conclusion Finding your first position is More than being in the right place at the right time A complex combination of learning about yourself and the organizations in which you are interested Presenting your strengths and weaknesses in the most positive manner possible.

Conclusion Remember: Recognize that the independence and the ability to "do your own thing" may not be the skills you need to keep you in your first position Be a team player Learn about organizational politics Find a mentor