Precepting is the heart of clinical education, and preceptors are the pulse that keeps it going.
While numerous resources are dedicated to explaining why healthcare professionals should consider becoming a preceptor (you can read ours here!), fewer resources detail how to be a good one. After all, the quality of a student’s preceptorship is only as good as the mentor at the helm.
Whether you’re new to precepting or a seasoned educator looking for new ways to hone your skills, here are four qualities of a memorable preceptor.
They provide hands-on experience
Preceptorships are designed to give aspiring health professionals real-world, practical experience. That being said, it can be hard for preceptors to relinquish control, making it difficult for students to truly internalize their roles and responsibilities. More often than not, students only allowed to observe in their preceptorships leave feeling unfulfilled, frustrated, and even unprepared.
They’re invested
Few things feel worse than arriving at a new job or internship and quickly realizing the team wasn’t prepared to welcome you or–even worse– has no idea where to put you. Successful, effective preceptors are prepared to receive and welcome their students in a patient, supportive, and motivating environment.
They practice clear communication
Preceptorships are a learning experience, and the only way to learn is through open, honest evaluations. Preceptors who shirk from clear feedback rob their students of a truly valuable experience that will help them continue to grow and strive to be the best they can be.
They lead by example
As the saying goes, you have to practice what you preach. Some of the best lessons students can take away from their preceptorships are absorbing what you model with your patients day in and day out, including everything from time management and bedside manner to more technical tasks.
When approaching your own precepting style, think back to your student years. What stands out, good or bad? What did you enjoy, or didn’t? What do you want to contribute to the future of the healthcare profession?
Your students are more than your students, they’re your legacy.
Ready to contribute to the future of healthcare education? Apply to join our preceptor network here.