Step into leadership with clarity, structure, and strategy.

👩🏽🏫 You’re Not “Just” a Preceptor

Becoming a nurse educator or preceptor isn’t just about showing someone where the supply room is. It’s mentorship. It’s modeling. It’s building the next generation of nurses. And while it’s an honor, it can also feel overwhelming—especially when you’re given a new grad with zero experience and zero onboarding structure.

You deserve a plan too. This is your 30-day game plan to lead with confidence, track real progress, and protect your own peace.

1. Week 1: Orientation & Observation

The first week isn’t about perfection—it’s about exposure. You’re introducing the unit, the flow, and helping your new nurse find their feet.

💡 Real Tip:

Focus on:

• Layout of the unit + key contacts

• Charting system orientation

• Time management expectations

• Identifying what they know vs. what they need

Encourage note-taking, questions, and repetition. Don’t expect autonomy—yet.

2. Week 2: Shadow-to-Lead Transition

Now it’s time to start flipping the script. They should begin taking the lead—with support.

💡 Real Tip:

Start gradual:

• 1–2 patients under their care

• Encourage critical thinking: “What would you do next?”

• Let them speak during handoff, SBAR, and rounds

You’re not just giving feedback—you’re developing confidence.

3. Week 3: Independent Flow with Guardrails

This is where you really start seeing how they process information, manage time, and handle stress.

💡 Real Tip:

• Let them manage most of their assignment

• Observe silently before intervening

• Ask: “What’s your plan for this shift?” to promote intentional thinking
  Track performance with a checklist (skills, safety, communication, time use)

Your job is to watch how they think, not just what they do.

4. Week 4: Final Assessment & Feedback Loop

Your goal isn’t perfection—it’s progress. You’re now evaluating their readiness, while also giving space for growth.

💡 Real Tip:

Use a simple exit framework:

• What they’ve mastered

• What still needs support

• What tools they’ll take with them
  Also, ask them to give YOU feedback. Preceptorship is a two-way street.

Bonus: Protect Your Own Energy as an Educator

Precepting is emotionally and mentally taxing—especially when you don’t have institutional support.

💡 Real Tip:

• Use templates to streamline your feedback

• Set boundaries around when/how you’re available

• Check in with other preceptors weekly

You can’t pour from an empty badge reel. Your leadership matters—don’t burn out trying to be everything.

💬 Final Words: You’re Not Just Teaching—You’re Transforming

Preceptorship isn’t just delegation. It’s direction.
It’s not about being perfect. It’s about being present, consistent, and committed to growth.
Your voice, your structure, your leadership? It changes everything.

Want a ready-to-go preceptor toolkit that outlines what to teach and track every week?
Grab the New Nurse Fast Track Series — built to support you and the nurse you’re mentoring.