Great nurses are very much in demand right now and for the foreseeable future. Because of that it is a reasonable assumption that you’ll likely receive multiple nursing job offers at one time. Sio, how do you balance those job offers while deciding on the right nursing career path for you?
Because of the high demand for quality nurses those who receive multiple nursing job offers may find themselves overwhelmed and anxious about which job offer to choose. This is a big decision so you need to proceed with your own best interest at heart. Every opportunity provides you with the chance to learn and grow in your profession and develop new skills along the way.
There are specific components regarding any nursing job offer that add to the appeal. Things like salary, PTO, benefits, career development opportunities and, of course, fulfillment are vital factors that certainly influence your decision. However, not every job that offers the biggest payout or opportunity to climb the ladder within the organization presents the best path for you. Each nurse has their own priorities. Here we offer some guidelines to help you balance multiple nursing job offers before settling on the one that’s perfect for you.
Define Your Nursing Career Goals and Aspirations
Think about where you are right now and where you want to be in five or ten years. What’s essential for you in a nursing job right now may not be what you want in the next decade. What are your career goals and what do you suppose is the best path to get there?
Your career trajectory is highly dependent on the nursing job you choose today. Do any of the nursing job offers present opportunities to grow and develop as the future nurse you want to be? Is the healthcare organization serious about their growth as well as yours? Ask about career development. Do they support ongoing education in the form of certifications and training?
If your nursing career goals are your main focus and you want to go as far as you can focus on those nursing job offers that support your aspirations.
A Number You Can Live With
Salaries vary throughout the US and even within states. For example a rural community medical facility may pay far less than a hospital or clinic in a big city environment. But, the cost of living reflects the salary in most cases and it’s usually a lot more costly to live or commute to a large metro than it is to reside in smaller, less populated rural areas.
Prioritize Those Benefits You Need
Money is important to be sure. But consider the benefits that sweeten the deal. A comprehensive benefits package that includes medical, dental and vision insurance is a plus but additional benefits such as 401k or other retirement savings plan add value to nursing job offers. And if the healthcare organization offers generous PTO and flexible scheduling then you can rest assured they are invested in your work-life balance. Make a list of those benefits that are important to you.
Go With Your Gut
Ultimately the highest salary with a benefits package that knocks you off your feet isn’t always the best among your nursing job offers. Trust your gut when it comes to deciding your career path. Ask around and find out what your peers’ experience is with certain healthcare organizations. What’s the true culture of the working environment? Does your potential new employer treat you and other nursing staff with respect? Do they strike you as sincere and do they communicate and listen during the interview process? Ask around and get the feedback you need but also trust your instincts.
Nursing job offers are certain to come your way. The need for nurses right now is tremendous and it’s only predicted to climb over the next decade. For more on how you can find the nursing job that’s right for you please contact BOS Medical Staffing.
