Perspectives on Developing, Marketing, and Implementing a New Clinical Specialist Position

Abstract

The purpose of this article is to provide guidelines for the clinical nurse specialist (CNS) who is involved in setting up a new position. The article describes the use of marketing strategies as a means of introducing the role to a prospective employer. Three guidelines are proposed as a framework for successful development of a new position. They are: (1) clearly defined purposes, goals, and role responsibilities, (2) mutual agreement of role expectations, and (3) self-confidence of clinical knowledge and ability. The article discusses the issues of unrealistic expectations, credibility, and role competition as potential difficulties in implementing a new position and offers suggestions to assist the CNS to realize success in implementing a new position. The key to success in setting up a new position is to develop the function that makes the CNS most valuable to the employer.