Nursing is an exciting career choice that provides you with a number of opportunities for advancement and specialization. Below are seven ways to advance nursing career after becoming licensed. 

1. Have a plan

The first step to advancing your nursing career is to figure out where you want it to go. Where do you see yourself in five years? What would you like your eventual role in the medical field to be? Use these goals to shape your plans for advancement.

2. Attend conferences

One of the best ways to advance your career is to attend nursing conferences. Not only will you have the opportunity to learn from experts in the field at these meetings, but you will also be able to build connections with other professionals who are in attendance.

3. Volunteer for leadership responsibilities

If your boss is looking for someone to take on more responsibility, volunteer for the work to gain extra experience. This will allow you to build additional skills and enhance your resume.

4. Take continuing education courses

Regardless of your experience level or ultimate goals, continuing education courses are recommended for all nurses. These courses can be beneficial in the pursuit of higher degrees and/or leadership positions. They can also help you stay up-to-date on all of the best practices and latest research in the field of nursing.

5. Spend time as a travel nurse.

As a travel nurse, you will be able to travel to various locations, meet new people and gain experiences you wouldn't have had if you had stayed with a single employer. Travel nursing can also be lucrative, and you may even be able to participate in free continuing education programs.

6. Join professional organizations

Professional organizations look good on your resume, and they can provide you with opportunities to learn, build connections and gain valuable experience. You can join generalized nursing organizations for nurses, such as the American Nurses Association, or you can join organizations specific to your specialty, such as the American Association of Nurse Anesthetists.

7. Pursue additional certifications

Additional certifications are another excellent way to advance your nursing career. If you are interested in a specific field of nursing, such as emergency medicine, pediatrics or surgery, consider taking some courses and pursuing professional certification.

These are just a few of the methods you can use to advance your nursing career. By employing these strategies and others, you can move closer to your ultimate career goals.