Advice for Healthcare New Grads

Are you a healthcare new grad or soon-to-be grad looking for some advice on how to thrive in your new healthcare job? Read on!

Finding a Job

Do research so you can launch your job search with realistic expectations. You probably have a good idea about what your day will entail, thanks to practicum placements or internships, but don't forget to look at issues like job prospects in your area and in other communities of interest, prospective employers and what they offer (e.g., advertised benefit packages), and salary ranges for new grads (and for future reference, experienced workers). For basic salary information in different locations, check out sites like salary.com or payscale.com. And if you're thinking about looking beyond your hometown for a job, take advantage of these relocation tools.

Many new grads automatically apply for the same types of positions they encountered during their training and practicum periods. Consider exploring other options! For instance, new nurses may want to consider specialty units, because hospitals often offer onsite training programs for those interested in areas like critical care.

Keep in touch with your school contacts. Your former instructors can act as references, and they and your old classmates are the start of your valuable professional network. Job fairs are a great opportunity to network and to see what's available at home and further afield.

For more information, read our articles on résumés and interviewing, and look at our Dear Cindy advice columns on finding a job.

On the Job

First, the basics: 1) Don't think that you know nothing. 2) Don't think that you know everything, and experienced, older staff are out-of-date and know nothing.

Be patient with yourself. Many of the skills you need can only be learned on the job, and only time and experience can turn you into a seasoned professional.

Learn the rules. Attend orientation sessions, read the policy and procedure manuals, and ask your supervisor or more experienced staff if you have questions.

Be flexible. Hospitals are places of controlled chaos, and your plan of action may have to change in an instant. Learn to accept this unpredictability, and don't let it stress you out. Focus on completing your tasks in order of urgency and priority, and delivering the best patient care possible.

Don't be afraid to ask for help. Even doctors can request a consult when faced with a difficult diagnosis!

Be proactive about learning. Ask questions, learn new procedures, model yourself after skilled, experienced staff members, and make an active effort to grow in your career. Take the time to fully understand what is going on and why. Read professional journals to stay up to date about new developments. Go beyond the CE requirements for your license, and attend inservices and professional development seminars, and even consider enrolling in additional courses.

Join a professional association. Membership benefits include information on the latest trends in your field, access to educational programs, online discussion forums, and the chance to expand your network.

Accept responsibility for any mistakes you make, correct them, learn from the experience, and move on. Don't dwell on the mistakes.

Manage your stress. Working in healthcare can be physically, mentally, and emotionally demanding. Leave your work at work. Maintain your health by eating well, exercising regularly, and getting enough sleep. Watch for the early signs of burnout, and take action to prevent it. Use all of your vacation time each year, and give yourself the chance to relax and rejuvenate.

Keep track of your progress. Start a log of your work accomplishments, including procedures you've learned, problems you've solved, and the technical and soft skills you're acquiring. This will help boost your confidence, and also makes it easier to update your résumé and sell your soft skills at your next interview.

Set clear boundaries regarding you work. You cannot compromise the care delivered to all patients to accommodate one particularly demanding patient. If you cannot take on tasks outside of your job duties, learn to say "no" without feeling guilty.

Interpersonal Skills

Observe the basic rules of good professional conduct. Dress professionally, arrive on time, and show courtesy and respect for all staff members and patients. Give others due credit for their work, and show your appreciation for any help or advice you receive. Don't engage in malicious gossip or other destructive behaviors.

Be assertive, and communicate effectively.

Engage in problem-solving rather than complaining. Rather than lamenting how difficult your tasks are when your supervisor is out of sight, go to your supervisor and explain the problem, how you've tried to handle it, and what you feel you need to get the job done.

Try to make friends among your coworkers. Having friends at work can decrease your stress level and provide you with emotional support during difficult times.

Find a good mentor. A mentor can be invaluable in helping you to navigate your career path.

Maintain a positive attitude and enjoy yourself!

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