The average layperson holds a positive image of nurses in his or her mind. Ask them about their experiences of nurses, and most will likely say something along these lines: "When my mom was in the hospital, the nurses were amazing," or "My aunt was a nurse, and I respected her so much for her compassion and dedication."
Since nurses receive consistent accolades from the general public, we nurses have a professional identity that can be leveraged in meaningful ways. From building your professional network and strengthening your resume, to serving the community and demonstrating leadership, your "nurseness" comes with strong brand recognition.
Nurse credibility and entrepreneurship
Nurse entrepreneurship is in the ascendant during these first two decades of the 21st century, with many nurses realizing they can apply their nursing knowledge and critical thinking to a variety of ventures.
Even if a nurse opens a business that is not related to direct patient care (e.g., a quality assurance consulting practice), having a nursing designation after one's name connotes authority, education and trustworthiness. Basically, being a nurse adds credibility to any business venture.
To wit, if an affluent elder is seeking a private duty individual to help him manage his medical appointments, medications and complicated health regimen, a private employee who has an RN after her name will certainly help this elderly man feel more confident in the care that he is receiving.
Seeking opportunity
In you are a nurse seeking opportunities to expand the horizons of your career, there are plenty of ways to do so without hitting the pavement in search of a new job, and your nursing credentials will help propel you in such circumstances.
If you've always wanted to serve on the board of directors of a nonprofit or other organization, most groups would jump at the chance to have a nurse among them. Nonprofits related to health, children, the environment, education, addiction and other contemporary social issues could greatly benefit from a nurse's perspective. If you'd like to add special nonclinical experience to your resume, and serving on a board of directors appeals to you, your "nursesness" should likely get your foot firmly in the door.
Volunteerism is another avenue for utilizing your nursing knowledge while giving back to the community. Thousands of organizations would fall over themselves to have your skills on tap, so understand that your nursing knowledge is like a fountain from which most prudent organizations would readily drink.
If you live where your local, regional or state legislators are available to speak with constituents, know that your opinion counts. Since you're a nurse, a state senator or city councilor will hopefully listen closely to your opinions on issues pertaining to mental health, addiction, healthcare and public health.
For instance, if you are passionate about children's health and you know pollution from local factories is causing increased pediatric asthma rates, you can speak with a legislator about these issues with much more authority than a layperson.
Use your "nurseness" wisely
Your "nursesness" is a powerful ally and tool. It will get you in the door, amplify your voice and give you the keys to some doors less readily open to the average person. Use your "nurseness" and influence wisely, and fully internalize and embody the power of your nursing identity.
