How to Advance Your Nursing Career: Tips for Growth

The demand for registered nurses in the United States is at an all-time high and is projected to increase over the next decade. If you’re looking to advance your nursing career, now is the best time, with all the job opportunities opening up.

According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, it’s estimated that there will be an annual average of 194,500 job openings for registered nurses between 2020 and 2030. This includes specialized positions requiring higher education.

Along with networking and experience, pursuing advanced education is one of the best ways to expand your career opportunities in the field. Many working nurses are now opting for courses like BSN to MSN online programs, allowing them to work as nurse practitioners.

Nurses with advanced education and specialized nurses will also be in high demand due to America’s rapidly aging population and the mental health crisis. Nurses who have pursued postgraduate studies usually have better employment prospects and salaries, too.

This article will cover everything you need to know if you’re looking to advance your nursing career. This includes a breakdown of the different nursing specializations available, making the most of networking opportunities, and other helpful tips.

Pursue advanced education

One of the best and sure-fire ways to advance your nursing career is through higher education. Pursuing advanced nursing education through a Master’s degree, a Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP), or other specialized programs can unlock new opportunities.

For example, a Master’s in nursing can open the door to advanced roles like a nurse practitioner and a nurse educator. Nurse practitioners see a massive upgrade to entry-level nursing positions, especially when it comes to pay.

In America, the median salary for a registered nurse, requiring a Bachelor’s degree, is $86,070 per year. Nurse practitioners, nurse midwives, and nurse anesthetists have a median salary of $129,480 per year.

Entry-level registered nursing positions are expected to grow by 6%, which the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics describes as “faster than average.” In comparison, advanced nursing positions are projected to grow exponentially faster, at 40%.

The number of jobs for advanced nursing positions is expected to grow at a rapid pace, especially in rural/remote areas of the country. The workforce shortage is also hitting advanced nursing positions harder, so employers are urgently trying to fill the positions.

Consider a specialization

One of the unique benefits of nursing is how many specialties there are to choose from. Most specialties also require their own set of skills and educational requirements. They can also be a great way to advance your career.

If you don’t want to spend a few extra years studying for a Master’s or Doctorate, it’s worth considering pursuing a shorter specialization. For example, a postgraduate diploma would take less time than a Master’s qualification but still unlock new opportunities to advance your career.

In the United States, there are various types of nurses and nursing specialties you can pursue to advance your career or get a change of scenery. Some of these include:

• Emergency Nurse
• Obstetrics Nurse
• Certified Nurse Midwife
• Family Nurse Practitioner
• Mental Health Nurse
• Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
• Reproductive/Fertility Nurse
• Travel Nurse
• Military Nurse
• Substance Abuse Nurse
• Legal Nurse Consultant

Most nursing specialties require specialized training and/or further education. The exact requirements and licensing may also vary by state.

Find a mentor

In a fast-paced, demanding field like nursing, having an experienced mentor can be a game-changer if you’re looking to advance your career. The right mentor will be able to provide you with career advice and help further develop your skills.

One of the main benefits of having a nursing mentor would be for professional development. They can offer unique insights, advice, and practical knowledge that might not be possible through a formal education or textbooks.

While nursing is an incredibly rewarding profession, it can also be an emotionally draining and stressful one. Having a strong support network that includes a mentor can help you better manage stress and avoid burnout.

Research has shown that nurse burnout can severely impact job satisfaction and performance. Not only does this impact the quality of care given, but it can also negatively influence career advancement due to bad performance reviews and attitude.

Embrace personal development opportunities

Whenever possible, always embrace and take on any personal development opportunities. Whether it be further study opportunities or workshops to expand your skill set. Volunteering for projects and committees is also a great opportunity to gain more experience.

Grow your professional network

Personal development opportunities, like workshops and conferences, are also a great chance to grow your professional network. Networking is one of the few ways you can advance your career without having to pursue advanced education.

Knowing the right people can make a world of difference when it comes to opening new doors. Networking can help broaden your job opportunities, potentially gain mentors, and help when you’re applying for a new position through recommendations.

Take on leadership roles

If you want to be a successful nurse and advance your career, you have to develop your leadership skills. Most advanced nursing positions will require strong leadership abilities, which you can only develop through practice.

Don’t wait around for leadership roles to find you. Take the initiative in your current workplace whenever possible to demonstrate and build your leadership skills. Whether this is through volunteering to manage new employees or assisting with trainees, all experience matters.

Prioritize a good work-life balance

While it’s important to throw yourself at every opportunity and personal development workshop that comes your way, don’t forget about your own well-being. When it comes to advancing your nursing career, you must prioritize a good work-life balance.

Studies show that nurses who are experiencing burnout or high levels of stress aren’t as effective in providing care. So, if you want to do your best and climb the nursing career ladder, you need to be in peak physical and mental condition.

So, along with the rest of the tips in this article, make sure that you have a good work-life balance. Make sure to get proper rest between shifts, set boundaries with your workplace, and understand your own limits.

If you decide to pursue further education to advance your career, it’s critical to ensure you still make time for your friends and growing professional relationships. Social interaction plays a massive role in mental health and work-life balance.