chapter 14
Your Nursing Career
OBJECTIVES
After reading this chapter, the student should
be able to:
■Evaluate personal strengths, weaknesses,
opportunities, and threats using a
SWOT analysis.
■Develop a résumé including objectives,
qualifications, skills experience, work
history, education, and training.
■Compose job search letters including
cover letter, thank-you letter, and
acceptance and rejection letters.
■Discuss components of the interview
process.
■Discuss the factors involved in select-
ing the right position.
■Explain why the first year is critical to
planning a career.
OUTLINE
Getting Started
SWOT Analysis
Strengths
Weaknesses
Opportunities
Threats
Beginning the Search
Oral and Written Communication Skills
Researching Your Potential Employer
Writing a Résumé
Essentials of a Résumé
How to Begin
Education
Your Objective
Skills and Experience
Other
Job Search Letters
Cover Letter
Thank-You Letter
Acceptance Letter
Rejection Letter
Using the Internet
The Interview Process
Initial Interview
Answering Questions
Background Questions
Professional Questions
Personal QuestionsAdditional Points About the
Interview
Appearance
Handshake
Eye Contact
Posture and Listening Skills
Asking Questions
After the Interview
The Second Interview
Making the Right Choice
Job Content
Development
Direction
Work Climate
Compensation
I Can Not Find a Job (or I Moved)
The Critical First Year
Attitude and Expectations
Impressions and Relationships
Organizational Savvy
Skills and Knowledge
Advancing Your Career
Conclusion217