In recent years, there has been an increase in nurse entrepreneurs who have chosen a less conventional path in the healthcare industry. Nurses, known for their dedication and adaptability, are now moving beyond traditional direct patient care roles and venturing into side gigs and full-fledged entrepreneurial ventures.
This article examines the process of moving from idea to action, discussing the different stages of starting a business, the challenges encountered, and the unique strengths that nurses bring to the table. It aims to inspire an interest in starting your own side business!
Ideation Phase
Every entrepreneurial journey begins with an idea. For nurses, these ideas often stem from their everyday experiences and the challenges they observe within the healthcare system. The ideation phase is about recognizing a problem and envisioning a solution. Here, creativity meets practicality as nurses leverage their unique perspectives to identify opportunities for innovation.
During my time as a nursing student and new graduate nurse, I discovered that nurses needed more support and career guidance. In my personal experience, a clinical instructor laughed at me and told me I would never become an emergency nurse. This response shocked me and pushed me to pursue my passion for working in the emergency department.
As my career progressed, I became a preceptor, mentor, educator, and coach. I realized I had a talent for providing career guidance to nurses and empowering them to work towards their career goals. Many have referred to me as the ultimate “hype woman” due to my ability to motivate others.
One day, I realized I could turn my skills, abilities, and expertise into a business. I identified a significant gap in career guidance for nurses, recognizing that nursing offers many different opportunities and career paths. On June 21, 2021, I founded Farah Laurent International Nurse Coach LLC. Today, I am an energetic Nurse Career Coach, author, freelance writer, speaker, and corporate trainer focusing on leadership development, professional advancement, creating healthy workplaces, and branding.
Identifying Opportunities
Nurses encounter numerous pain points in their daily routines—inefficiencies, gaps in patient care, and unmet needs. These experiences can spark ideas for potential business ventures. The key is to remain observant and curious, always asking, “How can this be improved?” For example, noticing a lack of specialized patient education materials might inspire a nurse to develop a series of informative, easy-to-understand guides.
Another idea is to develop nursing products by nurses for nurses. Nurses have a deep understanding of healthcare and are filled with solutions. Nurses possess many transferrable skills in business, such as problem-solving, adaptability, communication, negotiation, leadership, change management, psychology, human behavior, and simply connecting with people.
Market Research
Market research is crucial. This involves assessing the demand for the proposed solution, understanding the competitive landscape, and identifying the target audience. To gather data, nurses should utilize resources such as online surveys, focus groups, and industry reports. A great example would be how the newspaper industry has lost its demand. Think about the problem you are solving and how significant the demand could be.
Understanding the Industry
The healthcare industry is vast and complex, with its own set of terminologies and regulations. For a nurse transitioning into entrepreneurship, learning the business aspects of healthcare is essential. This includes understanding the business terms and speaking the language, such as ROI (Return on Investment), market segmentation, and customer acquisition costs.
The Learning Curve
Venturing into business can be daunting, especially when faced with the steep learning curve of understanding market dynamics, financial management, and marketing strategies. For many nurse entrepreneurs, this phase involves consuming a wealth of knowledge from various sources.
Self-Education
Books, online courses, and seminars become invaluable tools. Titles such as “The Lean Startup” by Eric Ries and “Business Model Generation” by Alexander Osterwalder provide foundational knowledge. Additionally, “The Brand Flip” by Marty Neumeier offers insights into branding—a critical component often misunderstood in the early stages of business development.
YouTube University
Platforms like YouTube offer a plethora of educational content. From tutorials on business plan creation to digital marketing strategies, nurse entrepreneurs can find step-by-step guides and real-world advice. The visual and practical nature of these videos helps demystify complex concepts.
Taking Action
While knowledge is power, action is paramount. The transition from planning to execution is where many aspiring entrepreneurs falter. However, the most effective learning often comes from doing—trial and error is an integral part of the entrepreneurial process. Taking action is the best way to move forward in your business, and it is part of a continuous improvement cycle.
Implementation
Launching a business requires a proactive and growth mindset. Start small, with pilot projects or side gigs, and gradually scale up based on feedback and results. This iterative approach allows for adjustments and improvements along the way.
Overcoming Challenges
Entrepreneurship is fraught with challenges, from financial constraints to market competition. Nurses, accustomed to high-pressure environments and critical decision-making, are well-equipped to navigate these obstacles. Resilience and adaptability are vital traits that aid in overcoming setbacks.
Building a Business: Personal and Professional Growth
Entrepreneurship is as much about personal development as it is about business success. It demands continuous learning and self-improvement.
Client-Centric Approach
To succeed in business, entrepreneurs must undergo a significant shift in mindset. They must understand that clients care primarily about their own needs and how quickly their problems can be solved. This client-centric approach is essential for building lasting relationships and gaining trust.
Investing in Yourself
Investing in personal development—whether through courses, coaching, or networking—is crucial. Although spending money on yourself and your business may sound daunting, this is the fastest way to improve your business.
Personal Branding and Visibility
In the realm of entrepreneurship, personal branding cannot be overstated. It is imperative to be visible and communicate your value proposition. Building a personal brand and becoming a thought leader in your niche can differentiate you from competitors.
Understanding Branding
As Marty Neumeier explains in “The Brand Flip,” branding is what the audience says you are. It’s the perception held by your clients and customers. Nurses must create a strong, authentic brand that resonates with their target audience. In order to understand your brand, you have to know yourself and your purpose and values.
Social Media and Networking
Leveraging social media platforms to create organic content and engage with potential clients is essential. Attending networking events, both online and offline, helps build connections and foster relationships within the industry.
For nurses interested in starting a business but not quite sure where to start, here are some potential ideas.
10 Nurse Business Ideas
Nurses possess a unique blend of skills and qualities highly transferable to business.
Here are ten business ideas for nurse entrepreneurs:
Nurse Consultant: Providing expert advice to healthcare facilities on improving patient care and operational efficiency.
Freelance Writer: Writing health-related content for blogs, magazines, and websites.
Health Coach: Offering personalized wellness and nutrition advice to individuals seeking healthier lifestyles.
Home Healthcare Agency: Providing in-home care services to patients.
Medical Billing Service: Managing billing and coding for healthcare providers.
Telehealth Services: Offering remote consultations and follow-up care.
Continuing Education Provider/Tutor: Creating and delivering educational programs for nurses.
Patient Advocate: Assisting patients in navigating the healthcare system.
Medical Equipment Sales: Selling specialized medical equipment and supplies.
Medical Spas/IV Therapy: Providing skin, beauty, and hydration-type services in a medical spa is a booming industry.
Actionable Steps to Start Your Business
Here are five actionable steps to help nurses kickstart their entrepreneurial journey:
1. Conduct Market Research
Identify your target audience and understand their needs.
Analyze competitors and market trends.
2. Develop a Lean Business Plan
Outline your business model, value proposition, and revenue streams.
Set clear, achievable goals and milestones.
3. Open Your Business and Select a Structure
Register your business and obtain the necessary licenses.
Choose a suitable business structure (e.g., sole proprietorship, LLC).
4. Decide on Your Business Model
Determine whether you will provide a service or sell a product.
Develop a pricing strategy and sales plan.
5. Focus on Brand, Sales and Marketing
Build an online presence through a professional website and social media.
Be visible and build a brand people want to be a part of.
Network with potential clients and industry professionals.
Create marketing campaigns to promote your business.
Building Relationships and Trust
Success in business hinges on building long-lasting relationships. Honesty and reliability are the cornerstones of trust. Making people know, like, and trust you is essential for sustained growth.
Networking and Engagement
Attend industry events, conferences, and workshops.
Engage with your audience through social media and email marketing.
Conclusion
Nurses have a unique opportunity to leverage their skills and experiences to create successful businesses. By embracing continuous learning, investing in personal development, and building strong client relationships, nurse entrepreneurs can navigate the challenges of entrepreneurship and achieve lasting success. The journey from side gigs to full-fledged businesses is filled with lessons and personal and professional growth.
It’s time to stop overthinking and take action! Take the steps towards building your dreams!
Whether you know it or not, you have a brand. Like it or not, YOU ARE THE BRAND! One way to check out your personal brand is to google yourself and see what pops up. You may be surprised. If you do not create your brand, it may develop on its own.
Research demonstrates that 94% of recruiters will search for a candidate online. Career Builder found that 70% of employers said they use social media to screen their candidates and are less likely to interview a candidate they cannot find online. There are many definitions of a brand. However, the simplest explanation is how people perceive you. To sum it all up in one word, brand is your “reputation.”
What do you want to be known for? And why should you care?
Nurses should prioritize personal branding as it allows them to distinguish themselves in a competitive job market, enhancing their visibility and desirability to employers. A strong personal brand communicates professionalism, expertise, and dedication to patient care. The reality is a brand can assist nurses in attracting rewarding career opportunities and advancement prospects.
Nurses can cultivate trust among patients, colleagues, and healthcare organizations by strategically shaping a personal brand. Personal branding can lead to greater career fulfillment and success in the dynamic nursing field. Are you ready to learn how you can shape your brand?
Here are 5 Steps to Create a Standout Personal Brand for Nurses
1. Define Your Unique Value Proposition
What sets you apart from other nurses?
Reflect on your strengths, skills, experiences, and passion in nursing.
Determine what makes you unique as a nurse.
What attributes do you want to be known for? (empathy, communication skills, clinical expertise, or leadership abilities)
]What is your purpose?
2. Create a Professional Online Presence
Establish a strong presence on professional on LinkedIn!!
Optimize your profile with a professional photo, compelling headline, and detailed summary highlighting your expertise and achievements.
Engage with other healthcare professionals and join relevant groups to expand your network.
3. Develop a Consistent Brand Image:
Ensure consistency in how you present yourself both online and offline.
Dress to impress or at least have a stand-out style
Be yourself as much as possible so people will be able to recognize you in person when they meet you and remember YOU!
4. Showcase Your Expertise Through Content Creation
Demonstrate your expertise and thought leadership by creating content related to nursing topics.
Write articles/blog posts, record educational videos, or host webinars on topics that align with your expertise and interests.
Establish yourself as a trusted authority in your field.
Just Start! Do not worry about the equipment or lighting! Get out of your head!!
5. Seek Opportunities for Professional Development/Recognition
Invest in professional development by pursuing advanced certifications and attending conferences/ workshops.
Showcase your expertise, such as speaking engagements at conferences, guest lectures at nursing schools, or writing articles for publications.
Seeking recognition and advancement within the nursing profession, you can further enhance your brand and position yourself as a leader in the field.
Embarking on a Doctor of Nursing Practice Program (DNP) is a significant stride towards advancing your career in healthcare. Amidst the increasing demand for advanced nursing professionals, selecting the right DNP program becomes crucial. The DNP program has many options: online, hybrid, and in-person.
However, before diving into the intricacies of program selection and study strategies, ask yourself this most important question: Why pursue a DNP degree?
Clarity on your motivation, the purpose of obtaining your doctorate, and your post-graduation plans sets the foundation for a successful journey. There are various potential roles for the DNP graduate, which include roles in nursing education, administration, health policy, nurse practitioner, or informatics. The DNP program prepares nurses to generate new knowledge through innovation of practice change and translating evidence to practice.
This article explores the top 10 tips for prospective DNP students, covering various aspects such as program selection, study strategies, the importance of a study partner, curriculum evaluation, cost considerations, and understanding program outcomes and final expectations.
Top 10 Tips for Success in a DNP Program
1. Research and Select the Right Program: Choosing the right DNP program is crucial. Consider factors such as accreditation, faculty expertise, and the program’s alignment with your career goals. Thorough research ensures a program that meets your expectations and provides a solid foundation for your future in nursing. Speak to other nurses in the current DNP program to get a sense. Selecting a program that meets your personal needs and that is flexible is imperative for your success.
2. Understand the Curriculum: Please read every detail in the curriculum before committing to a DNP program. Assess if the coursework aligns with your professional interests and career goals. A well-rounded curriculum ensures a comprehensive education and equips you with the skills needed in today’s complex healthcare environment. To be fully transparent, I purposely selected a doctoral program that did not have statistics because I did not want to retake it! However, the program did have a tremendously helpful economics course.
3. Evaluate Program Costs: Financial considerations are critical. Evaluate the overall cost of the DNP program, including tuition, fees, and any additional expenses. Look for potential scholarships, grants, or employer assistance programs to alleviate the financial burden. Most institutions have a payment plan that you can set up if needed. I did a lot of research before selecting my university. It was vital for me to have a physical university with an excellent reputation and history. I strongly recommend being strategic and not just paying extra money to have a prestigious school name on your resume.
4. Create a Realistic Study Plan: Balancing a DNP program with work and family commitments requires careful planning. Develop a realistic study plan considering your workload, responsibilities, and preferred learning pace. Creating a realistic plan can prevent burnout and reduce anxiety. I did most of my schoolwork at night because everyone was sleeping. Plus, I know that I function better at night.
5. Consider a Study Partner/Colleague support: A colleague or study partner can enhance your DNP experience. Collaborative learning fosters a supportive environment, provides different perspectives, and facilitates sharing resources and study materials. I had two close friends in the program, and having that continued support was instrumental to my success. We held each other accountable and called daily to check on each other to ensure we were ok or remind each other to submit assignments on time.
6. Utilize Online Resources: Use online resources and platforms to supplement your learning. Many DNP programs offer virtual libraries, discussion forums, and additional study materials. Embracing technology can enhance your understanding of the coursework and make your life easier. Please use all the resources you have available to you. Please learn how to do a proper library search for articles because it will save you hours of work. The librarian can be your best friend throughout the program.
7. Prioritize Self-Care: Balancing work, family, and a complex academic program requires self-care. Prioritize physical and mental well-being to sustain energy levels and focus throughout the DNP journey. This is harder said than done. I strongly recommend scheduling self-care time and activities. The DNP program is a rigorous program with high demands. Real talk: I cried several times and wanted to quit. However, I kept thinking of my kids, and my motivation kicked into gear.
8. Effective Time Management: Mastering time management is crucial for DNP success. Create a schedule that allocates dedicated time for coursework, work obligations, and personal commitments. Efficient time management ensures a well-rounded and fulfilling experience. It sounds silly, but please read the entire syllabus before your course begins.
9. Stay Proactive and Communicate with Professors: Maintain an open line of communication with your professors. Staying proactive ensures that you receive timely guidance, support, and feedback. I procrastinated during my DNP program, so I would not recommend it. Establishing a solid rapport with your professors can positively impact your academic journey. I sometimes found asking for sample examples for specific assignments helpful in understanding the expectations better.
10. Understand Program Outcomes and Final Expectations: Be clear about the DNP program’s ultimate expectations and ask many questions. Understand whether you must implement a study or present a project proposal. I had to submit my study to the Institutional Review Board (IRB) for approval. From personal experience, I strongly recommend creating a toolkit. I created a Stress Reduction Toolkit for Nurses. I often joked about using those same stress reduction strategies during the DNP program. Knowing the program outcomes ensures you are prepared for your academic journey and can confidently meet the final expectations.
I strongly recommend not comparing your DNP journey to anyone else. Please give yourself grace and be patient. I failed a DNP course, my DNP proposal course, and I was distraught. It was a long, complicated story that ended in a denied appeal from the Dean. I was distraught when it was happening; however, I realized that perhaps God had a different path for me. We know that not all paths are linear, and neither was mine. It taught me to be more patient and more precise.
I recently completed my DNP program in organizational leadership. My goal is to combine my experience in emergency medicine, education, and leadership into an exciting role where I can apply all my knowledge and skills. I am passionate about education, career development, and growth for all nurses, particularly novice nurses.
I am dedicated to improving workplace culture and wellness due to my previous experiences with toxic workplaces, discrimination, and bullying. My mission is to empower all nurses globally to pursue their personal, professional, and business goals. I started my DNP journey three years ago, and it has been a roller coaster ride. My experience of juggling a full-time job, a young family, and a business highlights that completing a DNP program is feasible and immensely rewarding with determination and a strategic approach.
Enrolling in a Doctorate Nurse Program can be overwhelming, but success is achievable with careful consideration and strategic planning. Integrating these top 10 tips into your DNP journey allows you to navigate the challenges and reap the rewards of advanced nursing education.
Remember, there is never a “right” time to start; it’s about finding the time that works for you and committing to the journey.
There has been a greater focus on creating healthy work environments in recent years, and nurses deserve kindness, too. Regardless of your nursing position, remember that kindness is still in style.
If you are a nursing student, new graduate nurse, educator, or chief nursing officer, remember that the foundation of nursing is rooted in caring. I don’t know what has happened to nursing over time, but we must return to caring basics as a nursing profession. Emotional intelligence and empathy can go a long way in nursing.
Research shows that kindness and helping others can decrease stress and benefit our mental health. Demonstrating kindness has been shown to reduce cortisol levels, increase self-esteem, compassion, and empathy and improve your mood.
Being kind to ourselves and caring for ourselves as nurses should be a priority.
Here are some self-care activities you can implement to be kind to yourself and others.
Sleep
Sleep is truly underrated. It is crucial to get your rest and relaxation.
Healthy Eating
It’s not easy sometimes, but try to look for healthy eating options as much as possible. I know nurses love all things caffeine. However, reducing caffeine can be helpful.
Massage
Massage can be highly relaxing and stress-reducing. Some nursing positions can be physically demanding, so try a nice massage. Some insurance will cover this as well.
Exercise
Even if you are not a big workout type, you can at least go for regular walks. Walking outside and being in nature is also relaxing.
Music
Research shows that listening to 30 minutes of music a week can reduce stress and have physiological benefits such as reduced blood pressure.
Aromatherapy
Aromatherapy has also been proven to reduce stress. Even having different lotions, such as lavender, can instantly reduce stress.
Deep Breathing/Stretching
These are easy to do and can only take a few minutes but have powerful positive effects.
Healthcare providers must prioritize putting their health first. Remember to take time off regularly. No job is worth your mental or physical health. It is time we start normalizing taking time off regularly in the healthcare industry. If you are in leadership, please encourage the staff to take time off. When the team feels happy and relaxed, they can be more productive.
Be kind to yourself so that you can have more kindness for others.
Many nurses feel stuck and need help figuring out why. Alright, no worries. I can reassure you that you are not the only nurse feeling this way. Here are some reasons you may feel stuck and how to get out of that rut.
Lack of Career Advancement and Growth
You may not be experiencing growth in your current position. Or you are not getting the opportunities you want due to different circumstances.
The Fix: Keep learning and growing from a personal and professional standpoint. Seek opportunities to learn, go to conferences, return to school, or get certified in your specialty area.
The bottom line:
Continue to increase your skills and knowledge.
Articulate your desire to be promoted and advance in your career.
Make sure you keep all your receipts and be ready to present why you deserve to be promoted.
Sitting in the corner and working hard will not automatically get you promoted. Instead, make yourself visible and highlight your accomplishments. Network with other nurses and other industries. Network in person and on social media and search for different opportunities. If all fails, then you can take your talents somewhere else.
Learn to say no in your personal and professional life.
Ask for help and support from colleagues.
Prioritize self-care activities such as sleep, exercise, rest, and eating healthy. If you take a break and return, still not feeling well, it may be time to find another position.
Seek medical attention for an assessment and speak to a licensed professional regarding mental health concerns.
Limited Scope of Practice and Not Feeling Challenged
The Fix: Nurses can feel stuck due to the limitations of their current practice. Recommend taking on a different assignment or project.
Precepting or mentoring can be a great way to reignite your passion and keep you on your toes. Seek out work that is fulfilling and aligned with your purpose and values. Consider going back to school to pursue advanced practice roles such as a nurse practitioner. You may be bored of the same thing day in and day out. Starting your own side business, such as writing, tutoring, or speaking, could add something new and exciting to your career.
Feeling Unappreciated
You may not realize it, but perhaps you feel underpaid, undervalued, and unappreciated.
The Fix:
Join or start a recognition and appreciation committee within your organization.
Ask for feedback from colleagues, patients, families, and the leadership team.
Engage in nursing organizations that promote recognition and support for nurses.
Lack Clarity
You may not know exactly what you want, and that’s ok. However, this uncertainty may lead to you feeling stuck.
The Fix: Take the time to reflect and see what you want to do. Try to be strategic by looking at your end goal and working backward to how you will get there. Create career goals and a list of what is most important in your life this season. Determine what type of life you want to have and create your career around that lifestyle. Define what success means to you. Seek guidance from mentors and career coaches to gain clarity and develop a career advancement and success roadmap. Career coaches like me can help you get crystal clear about your priorities and your next moves.
Remember:
Compare yourself to only yourself
Do what you want, and do you
Be patient with yourself
Invest in yourself
Ask for help
Stop overthinking, make a decision, and take action. Part of feeling stuck is all in our heads, and this indecisiveness can lead to anxiety and, obviously, inaction. Nursing is the greatest profession in the world, with so many opportunities. Be comfortable knowing you can always redirect yourself to another path in whatever direction you take. So go ahead and take action. Get unstuck.
