Nurses can network too

Prior to joining the online healthcare community, I never really thought that networking was something that nurses did, nor could I see how it would benefit me professionally and personally. I always categorized it as something that concerned lawyers and high flying bankers, because what could nurse networking really do? How wrong I was.

Since joining the online healthcare community I’ve been amazed at the range of healthcare professionals, using the power of social media through blogging, Instagram, YouTube, podcasts and e-books, to document their professional journey to offer support, advice and insight into the world of being a healthcare professional. 

Since starting Nurse Chat I have had the pleasure to connect and interact with a range of fabulous individuals; some of whom I recently had the pleasure of meeting. Online networking has allowed me to exchange information, give and receive support, expanded my insight into nursing roles that I never knew existed, as well as being able to engage in a range of conversation plus much more. I’ve managed to connect with people who do not live in the same time zones as me, which I think also highlights what a powerful tool social media is, and how if used correctly it can be a really positive experience. 

Through networking, I had the pleasure of speaking at my first ever nurse networking event hosted by AskNurse. Their work aims to support students and nurses with any problems that they may be facing in their nursing journey, via social media platforms and hosting regular nursing events. I was on the panel with a range of nurses from different backgrounds, with a range of expertise and over twenty years of experience combined. The aim of such events is to bring students and nurses together, to allow them to network outside of the work environment in a ‘safe space’.

The event covered various topics such as transitioning to senior roles, burn out, self-care, interview tips and much more through group discussions, scenarios, and games. There was also an opportunity for individuals to ask nurses on the panel questions. 

It was my first time speaking on a panel, and despite feeling nervous it was so nice to be surrounded by fellow nursing professionals and students, outside of the work environment. It was great to be able to share what I have learned so far in my nursing experience, in the hope that it’ll help someone else’s nursing journey be that little bit more easier. I left the event feeling motivated, uplifted and determined. If I had known networking could evoke such feelings I would have got involved much sooner.

The event highlighted to me just how much we as professionals and students can all learn from one another, and the importance of supporting each other even if it’s just being a lending ear. It highlighted to me how much I wish I’d had access to such resources and events as a student, and how important these platforms actually are. It reiterated to me the importance of being the change you want to see, and ensuring that you help pave the way for others so they too can achieve. It also taught me that as nurses we need more. More networking events, more workshops, more ‘safe spaces’ to just be. Ebi also known as @NurselifeRN said in a recent podcast, “people who aren’t in healthcare don’t view things the way we see them. That’s why we need a space where we can be open about dialogue”. 

I really want to encourage students and nurses to look out for opportunities like AskNurse events where you can network, be supported and meet new people. Even if you have to attend some things on your own don’t be afraid or discouraged. I was really proud of myself for doing something outside of my comfort zone, and connecting with people whom I’d never met before.