When you are looking for a job as a CRNA, finding the right fit for you should be your primary objective — and only you can decide what that is. Important factors like pay rate and benefits will always figure into your decision, but a position that fits your personality, goals, strengths, and values goes beyond a basic job description.
How will you know when you’ve found the job and workplace that are right for you? Here are five essential things to consider during your search:
1. It’s a good match for your personality.
The best CRNAs share many personality traits, like being able to remain calm under pressure and treating patients and colleagues with kindness and respect, but you also bring your own unique qualities to a workplace. Which parts of your personality are your biggest assets? What kind of environment allows them to shine?
2. It offers opportunities for growth.
Think about your professional goals in the short and long term, especially if you are just starting out in your career. What types of opportunities will help you reach these goals? What does each workplace offer in terms of continuing education or professional development? Where do you see yourself thriving in this stage of your career? For example, would an academic medical center give you exposure to a variety of clinical cases? Or would a large hospital help you quickly bolster your technical skills?
3. It has a great team.
The people you work with make a big difference in your professional happiness and fulfillment. What do you look for in colleagues, managers, and mentors? When you look back on past workplaces, who were your favorite people to work with? What qualities did they share? For instance, did you love supervisors who gave you independence and room to learn on your own? Did you appreciate the camaraderie and communication of a tight-knit team?
4. It aligns with your values.
Reflect on your personal core values, and write down the three that are most important to you. When researching potential employers, use these values to see if you’d be a good fit for each other. Read the organization’s mission statement and values, read reviews from patients and employees online, and ask questions related to values in job interviews. How do they describe themselves? How do others describe them? Can you see yourself working there?
5. It’s the next right step for you.
You won’t stay in one position forever, so the next job you take doesn’t have to check every single box on your list. Focus on finding a job that will help you thrive in the next phase of your career. Where will you be appreciated and valued? Where will you be able to make a positive difference? Do your research, and listen to your intuition before making a decision.
Learn more about anesthesia job opportunities available through Radar Healthcare Providers.
