Why So Many Directors of Nursing Are Set Up to Fail Before They Even Start
- Bilquis Ali
- Apr 26
- 2 min read

You accepted the position as Director of Nursing. You finally said yes to your dream job—the career you thought you'd retire from.
But here’s the truth: They handed you the title, but they left out the training.
They said all the things you wanted to hear in the interview to get you to accept the position.
You were so eager that you didn’t follow up with any questions like:
What does the orientation process look like?
Who is training me?
How long is the training?
Now, a month later, you’re ready to quit.
You’re leading blindly, showing up, winging it, and feeling like a failure.
Let me tell you something real—you’re not a failure.
You are one of many nurse leaders who accepted the position on false promises.
Meanwhile, you’re expected to produce outcomes that are out of reach.
You don’t know how to implement strategies, and now your license is on the wall while you deal with reportable events, low staffing, and more stress than you signed up for.
Here’s my advice:
Next time you go to an interview—Do your research first.
Have your questions ready.
Make sure your offers (like training, support, onboarding) are in your offer letter. Create an exit strategy if your needs aren’t met.
It’s time we start holding these companies accountable. Teach us so we can succeed.
If they won’t—Never put your career in someone else’s hands.
If they don’t teach you, you have to invest in yourself and seek out the knowledge.
There are resources and support systems out here to help you grow.
💜 If this resonates with you, drop a comment.
If you need help, schedule coaching or enroll in my program. It would be my pleasure to help you thrive as a Director of Nursing.
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