Kickstart a Rewarding Nursing Career: Tips for Graduate Nurses

First of all, a huge well done to you for completing your nursing degree and becoming a graduate nurse!

​We know how hard you’ve worked to get here, and that you are now looking forward to taking your first steps into a rewarding and dynamic nursing career. While landing one of your first nursing roles can feel daunting, it’s important to explore all your options. Whether you’re looking for a full-time career or a way to supplement your earnings as you gain more experience, one of the smartest moves you can make as a graduate nurse is registering with Nurseplus, one of the UK's leading nursing and care recruitment agencies.

Here, we wanted to share some top tips for all the new graduate nurses so we can help you navigate the earliest stages of your career with ease. Find out how working with Nurseplus can give you the perfect foundation for success in your nursing career.

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1. Gain Hands-On Experience Early

As a newly qualified nurse, getting as much practical experience as possible is key to building your confidence and honing those newly acquired skills. At Nurseplus, we’ll offer you the opportunity to begin your nursing career in a variety of healthcare environments. Whether it’s working in care homes, community care, or supporting hospitals, Nurseplus can connect you with rewarding nursing roles so you can apply what you’ve learned in real-world situations.

We’ve found that with this kind of hands-on experience, you'll not only find the transition from student to qualified nurse easier, but you’ll also have the chance to explore different fields within nursing, allowing you to figure out what you’re truly passionate about.

​Tip: Take advantage of diverse placements with Nurseplus because it’s a great way to test out different nursing career paths and discover your passion early in your career.

2. Flexible Working to Suit Your Needs

The change from student life to a full-time nursing career can sometimes be overwhelming and at Nurseplus we know that many graduate nurses may also be balancing further studies, family commitments, or simply adjusting to their new routines. This is why one of the biggest advantages of working with Nurseplus is the flexibility it offers. We’ll help you choose shifts that will work around your lifestyle — whether you want to work part-time while applying for permanent positions or prefer full-time hours to boost your income, we’ve got the nursing role that’s right for you.

It’s this kind of flexibility that makes Nurseplus the ideal option for graduate nurses who want to gain experience without locking themselves into a rigid routine.

​Tip: Nurseplus is a flexible option to earn as a qualified nurse whilst also maintaining control over your time and nursing career trajectory. We can find your work to supplement your income while you explore long-term opportunities or continue your studies.

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3. Build a Strong Professional Network

As a newly qualified nurse, professional networking is a key aspect that will support your professional goals, especially when you are trying to develop your nursing career. As a graduate nurse, you’ll want to build relationships with experienced healthcare professionals who can offer guidance, support, and even mentorship. Work with Nurseplus and you’ll have the chance to explore various healthcare settings, which means you’ll have the chance to meet a wide range of healthcare professionals and leaders in the industry.

Each placement we arrange will provide you with the opportunity to expand your professional network, learn from seasoned colleagues, and develop valuable connections that can help you achieve your future nursing career goals.

​Tip: We recommend engaging with all the healthcare teams at your placements. Ask questions, seek feedback, and show interest in learning from your more experienced colleagues.

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4. Access to Comprehensive Training

Just because you are now a graduate nurse doesn’t mean your learning is done! As a nurse ongoing learning and professional development are crucial which is why Nurseplus are committed to providing you with further high-quality training. This is particularly beneficial for graduate nurses who are looking to boost their skills as well as gather evidence-based training for revalidation purposes. We’ll provide you with our industry-leading induction training which will help you understand our way of delivering exceptional care and additional training that covers more specialist subjects.

What’s more, we’ll ensure you’re always up to date with the latest healthcare standards and offer you access to ongoing training throughout your time with us to enhance your employability and nursing career prospects in the future.

​Tip: Take advantage of every training opportunity Nurseplus offers. These courses will not only build your experience but also make your CV stand out in what can be a very competitive field.

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5. Explore a Variety of Roles

It's clear that one of the biggest challenges for graduate nurses is deciding which area of healthcare they’d like to specialise in. At Nurseplus, we’ll give you the chance to explore a range of different nursing environments, from specialist children’s care to residential nursing and hospital settings. With this breadth of experience, you’ll be able to figure out what it is you love doing most—whether that’s working with the elderly, supporting patients with chronic conditions, or engaging in emergency care.

By working in different nursing roles you’ll also broaden your skill set. This in turn will make you more adaptable and versatile as a nurse which can help you decide on your longer-term nursing career goals while gaining valuable experience in the meantime.

​Tip: Keep an open mind about the different healthcare sectors Nurseplus will expose you to. Use this time to explore which areas you feel most fulfilled and effective as a nurse.

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6. Earn While You Learn

Now that you are a graduate nurse, you are most likely still trying to figure out how to manage your finances while building your nursing career. Working with Nurseplus is the perfect opportunity to supplement your early earnings, easing the financial pressures of starting a new job or continuing to pursue further education.

As a Nurseplus nurse, you’ll receive competitive pay, with the flexibility to work the hours that suit you. With our help you can earn a steady income while gaining practical experience, giving you financial stability and control early in your career.

​Tip: Even if you have a full-time nursing role lined up, consider keeping your registration with Nurseplus active. It’s a great way to pick up extra shifts and boost your income during busier periods.

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7. Enjoy the Benefits of a Supportive Agency

Starting a new career can be stressful for anyone, but as a graduate nurse having an experienced support system in place can make a world of difference. The teams in your local Nurseplus branch are known for their personalised approach. It is their job to ensure you feel supported from the moment you register, helping you find placements that suit your skills and interests whilst providing advice on career progression, well-being, and personal development.

We understand the emotional and physical demands of working as a nurse which is why we offer easy-to-access resources for your mental health and overall well-being. Nurseplus works hard to build supportive environments that are especially beneficial for graduate nurses who are still finding their footing in what can be an extremely demanding profession.

​Tip: Make use of the Nurseplus support system to ask questions, seek advice, and feel confident in your nursing journey. Your team is there to help you succeed so let them!

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Now that you are thinking about starting out on your nursing career we know you’ll be feeling a mixture of excitement and nerves. Choosing to register with Nurseplus means you can enjoy:

• Flexible working hours

• Comprehensive training

• Revalidation support

• Diverse job placement

• Supportive experienced teams

​Whether you’re a graduate nurse looking for a full-time role or a qualified nurse who wants to supplement your income, Nurseplus will offer you the perfect balance of opportunity, growth, and flexibility. So why wait? Register with Nurseplus today, and let us help you kickstart a rewarding and successful nursing career!

Register with Nurseplus today!