Avoiding the haste makes waste syndrome:

Along with the excitement and relief associated with graduation is the need to obtain employment as an APN. How pressing the need is depends upon many factors. Primary for many are financial pressures and fear of the unknown. The former lends itself to objectivity and concrete analysis of dollars earned, versus dollars spent. The latter is a more abstract concept, ill defined and often fueled by rumor and outdated information. Both alone and in combination, these two factors have the potential to negatively impact decision making regarding employment. 

The short-term goal of viable employment may be met, but long-term goals addressing professional growth and development can be dismissed in the haste to bring home a check. Finding a job, any job, becomes primary. The objective assessment of job appropriateness and potential for job satisfaction assumes a secondary position. An environment for less than successful contract negotiations has been created.

Can you decrease the risk of contracting the "haste makes waste" syndrome? Can you minimize its impact? You can, because you are an APN! You have acquired skills and knowledge applicable to any problem-solving situation. Critical thinking does not exist only within the confinement of the clinical setting. Objective data collection and anticipatory guidance will serve you well in this situation. Remember, prevention is your middle name!

Suggestions to minimize contracting the "haste makes waste" syndrome include:

  • Finances: 

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    • Create a financial plan for a 1-3 month period following graduation that is not dependent upon immediate employment as an APN.

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    • Create this plan approximately 3-6 months before anticipated date of graduation. 

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    • Assess and prioritize material needs and financial resources for this time period.

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  • Employment opportunities: 

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    • Distinguish fact from fiction: 

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      • Want ads may not represent all available employment.

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      • Statistics may not reflect current or future market need.

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    • Conduct a self-analysis of strengths and interests.

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    • Be creative. 

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    • Develop a personal marketing plan.

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    • Draft a resume and allow adequate time to review, revise, and refine. For further information on writing a resume review Resume Tutor!, an interactive resume workbook. 

 
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