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The Job Offer I Turned Down (and What It Taught Me)

A manager’s reaction told me everything I needed to know about the workplace I avoided.

I once turned down a job offer.

The manager’s reaction told me everything I needed to know.

I had an interview to be an educator.

I didn't have a ton of experience, but they were desperate.

I happened to get another job offer, so I turned this one down.

The manager actually started yelling at me on the phone.

This was only the second time I'd ever spoken to her!
(the first was the interview)

I had turned down the job offer nicely.

I gave her my reasons.

I didn't owe her anything.

That day, I realized I had dodged a major bullet.

A bad manager will always reveal themselves.

If this is how someone reacts before you even start,
imagine what it would be like working for them.

The right opportunity (and the right leadership) will never make you feel
guilty for making the best decision for yourself.

Hit “reply” to this email and let me know what you think!

Non-Bedside Job Spotlight

Patient Safety Associate

A Patient Safety Associate is responsible for supporting the organization’s patient safety and quality improvement initiatives.

What do they do?

  • Monitoring and analyzing safety incidents

  • Assisting with root cause analyses (RCA) and safety investigations

  • Conducting audits and safety rounds

  • Gathering and synthesizing data

  • Supporting policy review and updates

  • Educating staff on safety processes and best practices

  • Helping implement changes that reduce harm and improve patient outcomes

  • Maintaining documentation for accreditation and compliance

It’s part educator, part consultant, part relationship-builder; and every day looks a little different.

A Patient Safety Associate plays a key role in preventing harm and improving care quality by reviewing safety incidents, supporting root cause analyses, conducting safety rounds, and helping implement system-wide improvements.

Nurses are especially strong candidates for these roles because they understand frontline workflows, have hands-on experience with safety practices, and bring trusted communication and critical-thinking skills.

Why Nurses Are a Strong Fit:

  1. Deep understanding of frontline workflows

  2. Experience with incident reporting and safety practices

  3. Strong communication and teamwork abilities

  4. Critical thinking and prioritization

  5. Credibility and trust

  6. Advocacy mindset

Typical Qualifications:
  • Bachelor’s degree in a health-related field (nursing, public health, health sciences, healthcare administration)

  • Clinical experience preferred, not always required

  • Familiarity with:

    • Safety event reporting systems

    • Quality improvement principles

    • Accreditation standards

  • Strong analytical and communication skills

  • Proficiency with Excel, data entry, and basic reporting tools

Remember, nurses can do jobs that don’t have the word “nurse” in the title!

Looking for your next job?

Hit reply to this email or schedule a FREE discovery call to learn how we can work together!

Cheers and let’s get started!

Sara Fung, MN, BSN, RN CEO of the RN Resume