Transfer of Departments Nursing is exciting and in most cases, no two days are ever the same. With that being said, there may come a time that you want a change, however you don't want to leave, your actual employer. The ideal solution is to transfer departments within your hospital. The problem with this is that it needs to be handled delicately, your current supervisor may take your transfer request personally, as if you want to get away from them. How to Handle the Transfer Request In most cases, the best thing to do when you want to transfer is to speak with your supervisor either prior to submitting the request, or directly following. It's a common courtesy to let them know your intentions, they will find out soon regardless. Be honest, and explain your desire to experience a new environment, and point out the differences in the departments, such as a regular floor to emergency. You just want to broaden your horizons, and reiterating it has nothing to do with your supervisor or coworkers, is a positive statement. The reason for the transfer is based on you, and you alone. That statement should ease any tension, and ensure, the supervisor does not take it personally. Related: Everything about Robotic Surgery Reasons to Transfer Before you seek a transfer in your company or start hunting for a new job, consider whether your attitude is in the right place. As long as you're not running away from a difficult situation, expecting everything to be perfect in a new job or shirking your responsibilities, a job transfer might be a viable option. Making a list of pros and cons and evaluating whether the transfer has short- or long-term benefits can help you maintain perspective. It's best to keep long-term goals in mind and make a rational, non-impulsive decision about future employment. Unhappiness in Your Current Position Even though happiness comes and goes with almost any job situation, consider your overall job satisfaction. If you feel unhappy most of the time and continually think about doing something in a different area, then switching jobs might be the best answer. Consider whether your unhappiness stems from temporary situations such as work pressures, short-term workforce changes, frustration with a particular patient, trouble with co-workers or conflicts with your boss. Those types of issues usually resolve with time. However, if your dissatisfaction stems from permanent
issues, such as discontentment with your job responsibilities or unhappy with your career path, a job transfer might be the right move. Boredom If you're happy with your employment, but your job responsibilities are boring, discuss the situation with your boss before making any permanent job changes. Your boss might be looking for someone to handle a new wing or oversee a new project.Your current company might be the best option, as a lateral move is often an easier process than leaving a company altogether. In a struggling economy, finding a new job can be a time-consuming process, even for nurses, and you don't want to risk losing your current job security. Career Advancement Career advancement is a good reason to seek an internal job transfer or accept a new position, especially if the promotion keeps you on a career path that meets your long-term goals. In many cases, a job promotion shows an employer that you have initiative and are willing to take job risks. You might feel a little out of place for a few months until you settle into the new position, but a job change can also be exciting and energizing. Always consider practical issues, such as relocation costs and family needs, before you accept a new job, a transfer may be a much better solution. Related: Obsessive Compulsive Disorder Facts Work-Life Balance When a job transfer allows you to have a better work-life balance, it might be the right choice. Possibly the new job allows you to spend more time with your family, enjoy hobbies or take time off. On the other hand, a job transfer might mean more working hours and heightened work demands. Even though a pay raise often accompanies a job transfer, money alone shouldn't be the deciding factor. Consider whether the new job opportunity adds value to your lifestyle and satisfies your personal and career goals. Nurses change jobs an average of 4-7 times during their career, so you may find a transfer to provide a more stable work history on a resume versus an actual employer change. One thing to consider regarding a transfer to a new department is, you never know, unless you try. Related: Highly Regarded Registered Nurse Wendy Webb, RN, BSN, will be Featured in the Worldwide Leaders in Healthcare Please follow us on Facebook, Linkedin, Pinterest and Twitter