Becoming a Surgical Nurse Practitioner: Mastering the Art of Networking

As aspiring surgical nurse practitioners, we understand the importance of acquiring the necessary clinical skills and the ability to network effectively within our field. Networking plays a vital role in advancing our careers, opening doors to new opportunities, and ultimately leading us to elite performance in clinical settings. This blog will discuss valuable insights and strategies to help you become a networking pro and pave the way towards your dream job.

1. Embrace the Power of Networking:

Networking is more than exchanging business cards or making small talk at conferences. It is about building meaningful relationships with colleagues, mentors, and industry leaders. By networking, you can access a wealth of knowledge, foster professional growth, and establish a solid reputation within the surgical community.

Contrary to popular belief, there are a plethora of surgical NP jobs; you just have to know where to look. Many nurse practitioners land jobs by word of mouth. That is exactly how I landed my job in neurosurgery! Surgical nurse practitioners have a unique skill set that surgeons can utilize, such as rounding and medication refills, freeing the surgeon up for more profitable tasks.

2. Join Professional Associations and Organizations:

One of the most effective ways to expand your professional network is by joining relevant associations and organizations. Seek out groups like the Association of periOperative Registered Nurses (AORN) and the California Association of Nurse Practitioners (CANP). Attend conferences, seminars, and workshops organized by these associations to connect with like-minded professionals and stay updated on the latest advancements in your field.

3. Utilize Social Media Platforms:

In today's digital era, social media platforms offer incredible networking opportunities. Create a professional profile on LinkedIn, the go-to platform for connecting with healthcare professionals. For example, searching for your dream job on LinkedIn will provide you with the exact roadmap to that job. You will find professionals already in that role, their education, where they work, and all their professional accolades and interests. Join nursing-specific groups and engage in discussions to showcase your expertise and build connections. Make your interests known to others; you never know who might reach out with a new opportunity.

4. Attend Local and National Events:

Networking events, both local and national, provide excellent opportunities to meet and connect with professionals in your field. Look for conferences, seminars, and workshops focused on surgical nursing or a specific specialty of surgical nursing (Plastics, orthopedics, neurosurgery, etc.).

Don't have surgical experience? No worries! National Institute of First Assist (NIFA) has "new to surgery courses" and advanced practice surgery courses.

See my blog on "How to become a Registered Nurse First Assist" for more information on surgical assisting.

https://www.nursepractitionerhacks.com/post/how-to-become-an-rnfa

5. Seek Mentorship:

Identify experienced surgical nurse practitioners who have achieved the level of excellence you aspire to reach. Seek out mentorship opportunities, either within your workplace or through professional associations. Mentors can provide guidance, offer valuable advice, and introduce you to influential individuals in the field. Cultivating strong mentor relationships can significantly impact your career trajectory.

Conclusion:

Networking is essential for aspiring surgical nurse practitioners to excel in their clinical settings and ultimately secure their dream job. By embracing the power of networking, joining professional associations, utilizing social media, attending events, seeking mentorship, and building an online presence, you can establish a solid professional network that will propel your career forward. Networking is an ongoing process, so dedicate time and effort to nurture your connections and stay engaged within the surgical nursing community. Good luck on your journey to becoming an elite surgical nurse practitioner!

-Matt