Page 9 - Networking&Professional-12-14-2016a

TOP 10 WAYS FOR NURSES

TO NETWORK

Networking is essential for the longevity and health of your nursing
career. From nursing school colleagues and professors to coworkers and
preceptors, building a robust network of professionals inside and outside of
the healthcare industry is crucial for the long haul.
Here’s a list of 10 top ways for nurses to build a powerful network over time:
1. Conferences and seminars: Nursing conferences are a great way
to meet like-minded colleagues. Whether you attend a conference
dedicated to a particular nursing specialty or a seminar focused on a
specific skill, these types of events are ripe for cementing valuable new
connections.
2. Nursing associations: Joining local, regional, or national associations
affords you opportunities to meet others potentially interested in the
same things you are. If networking locally, you can meet nurses and
build collegial face-to-face friendships.

3. LinkedIn: LinkedIn is the top online platform for professional networking.
Most LinkedIn users don’t understand how to make good use of the site;
it behooves you to learn and explore. Identify potential colleagues, and
move those relationships to telephone, Skype, email, or even face-to-
face meetings.

4. Social media: Nurses hang out on many social media platforms,
including Twitter, Facebook, Pinterest, Instagram, and SnapChat,
and hashtags related to nursing are useful for searching for salient
conversations and people. Like LinkedIn, you can move the most
promising relationships to other forms of communication.
5. Informational interviews: Requesting an informational interview
with another professional who you’d like to know is a form of deep
networking. These interviews can have a slightly more formal feel; reach
out to individuals who work in specialties that interest you, or in facilities
you’re vetting.

6. Family: Your family members may not be healthcare professionals
(or are they?), but your favorite uncle or aunt may have some good
connections. Let them know you’re seeking introductions to build your
network.

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