I don’t know who needs to hear this.

But many people think the first step to career growth is going back for another degree, certificate, or designation.

Here’s the truth (especially in this job market):

A much better return on your time, money, and effort is investing in a strong resume, LinkedIn profile, and building real connections through networking.

Job searching takes time. It’s frustrating.

And no credential guarantees a job if you're not also visible and strategic.

I recently spoke with a nurse who spent over $50,000 on a Master’s in Informatics.

Two years later, they’re still trying to land their first role in the field.

Before you enroll in another program, ask yourself:

Have I optimized my resume and LinkedIn for my target role?
Am I actively networking with people doing the job I want?
Have I made myself easy to find and easy to hire?

Sometimes the next step isn’t more school. It’s better strategy.

Reach out if this resonated with you.

Non-Bedside Job Spotlight

Clinical Trial/Research Nurse

Nurses are uniquely suited to research roles because they combine clinical judgment with patient advocacy.

What do they do?

A clinical trial or research nurse supports medical research studies by coordinating patient participation, ensuring protocols are followed, and protecting patient safety. Instead of providing ongoing bedside care, this role focuses on study visits, informed consent, data collection, medication administration per protocol, and regulatory documentation. Research nurses work in hospitals, academic centres, specialty clinics, and research organizations.

Why Nurses Are a Strong Fit:

• They understand disease progression and clinical outcomes

• They excel at patient education and informed consent discussions

• They are detail-oriented and comfortable following strict protocols

• They naturally prioritize safety, ethics, and regulatory compliance

Patients often feel more comfortable participating in trials when guided by a nurse they trust.

Typical Qualifications:

• Most entry-level research nurse roles require:

  • Active RN license

  • 1–3 years of clinical experience (often in a relevant specialty)

  • Strong documentation and organizational skills

  • Comfort following protocols and working with study data

  • Interest in research, ethics, and evidence-based practice

Formal research certification (e.g., CCRC) is usually not required at entry and can be pursued later.

Remember, you don’t have to have 100% of the qualifications to get the job!