Picking Up the Pieces of Your Career
by Donna Cardillo, RN, BS

I’m often contacted by nurses who’ve had unique challenges in their professional life: a past history of substance abuse, serious illness, or departure from a job under less-than-ideal circumstances. Maybe these situations have resulted in an erratic work history, a long absence from the workplace, or diminished self-esteem. All of them require special attention to put a career back on track. Here are seven steps to get you started:

1. Work on your demeanor. The scenarios mentioned above, and others, are likely to leave you feeling so devastated and scared that it comes across in your persona. I can spot the symptoms when I see them: someone who doesn’t smile, makes limited eye contact, looks scared and nervous, and seems to be on the verge of tears. Often it’s people who get a panicky look on their faces when asked about their work history and are almost convinced from the outset that they’ll be “found out.”

While it’s never easy to face the world with a smile when things have not gone well for you, find ways to relax and be yourself. Take some time to meditate, focus on nature, and connect with your higher self. When all is said and done, your personality and attitude contribute more to your success than anything else. Look beyond your hardships and obstacles and let your inner light shine through. Don’t focus on your past; your future is your goal.

2. Be positive and get motivated. As difficult as this is, the benefits will manifest themselves in greater confidence, more courage, and a renewed sense of purpose. Write down all of your strengths and assets, accomplishments and experience. Think of all the ways you’ve contributed in the past and can continue to do so in the future.

Go to the public library and check out some motivational books and tapes and use them daily. Shift your focus from the negative to the positive. You become what you think about. This will help you over the hump.

3. Volunteer somewhere. This is the perfect way to ease back into the job market. Volunteering will give you some recent relevant experience to put on your resume, and it will allow you to learn some new skills and hone some old ones. Plus, it’s a great way to make some new contacts. You’ll have a chance to “test the waters” in a low-risk environment while rebuilding your confidence and your life. Volunteering also gives you a sense of purpose — something to get out of bed for each day. It will even help you get your mind off your troubles. Besides, volunteering often leads to gainful employment.

4. Network, network, network. Get a great business suit, or wear your best outfit, and start getting out among “the living.” Don’t stay isolated — there’s nothing worse than wallowing in your misery, blowing your problems out of proportion in your head, and allowing your fears to loom larger than life. Force yourself to get out with other people. Attend career fairs, nursing conventions, and professional association meetings. Talk to at least one new person at each event. Networking is the best way to find and get a job, especially when you have obstacles to overcome.

5. Be prepared for tough questions. You will probably be asked why you left your last job or why you’ve been out of the job market for a while. Be prepared for the questions and have your answers ready. Rehearse them — not only the words, but also your body language. Be comfortable. Don’t get defensive. This is a part of any job interview. It’s best to keep your responses somewhat general without sounding evasive. Depending on the circumstances, you might say something like, “For the last five years, some issues in my personal life have required my full attention. But they’re resolved now, and I’m ready and eager to get back into nursing full time.”

6. Look for job assistance. Your state nurses association may have a peer assistance program or career center that can help you return to the workplace. Seek out career services at a local college, including your alma mater. There are also career coaches (some are nurses) who can help you craft answers to usual questions, give you feedback on your presentation style, and help keep you motivated. And while you’re at the library picking up motivational tapes, check out some of the latest best-sellers on job hunting, interviewing, and self-marketing.

7. Give yourself a competitive edge. Join and get active in some professional associations. It’ll show that you’re an informed and active member of your profession, even if you’ve been away from nursing for a time. Besides, there’s no better way to get back in the loop and reconnect with your profession. You’ll start getting publications and information and have access to a support system of peers. It can serve as your lifeline.

Whatever your challenges or circumstances, find a job that’s appropriate for your situation and background and allow yourself to live and work again. Everyone deserves another chance. And while every job may not be right for you, there are many ways and places to make a difference. As long as you have something to give others, there’ll always be a place for you. Reignite your passion for nursing, get back in the game, and start making a difference again.

Copyright Nursing Spectrum Career Fitness^(sm) Online (www.nursingspectrum.com),
All rights reserved. Used with permission.

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