Whether you're contemplating your first practice or considering a job change, this conversation offers invaluable guidance from those who've successfully navigated multiple transitions.

AOA Emerging Leader Aaron Brandt, MD, had a discussion with Antonia Chen, MD, FAOA, and Clayton Nuelle, MD, about transitioning jobs early in your career, and how to decide what your non-negotiables are for your workplace environment.

What drives these transitions? As our guests reveal, it's often a combination of "push factors" moving you away from your current situation and "pull factors" drawing you toward new opportunities. Despite the statistic that over 50% of surgeons change their first job within three years, these transitions are rarely discussed openly, leaving many physicians feeling isolated when considering a move.

Both physicians share candid insights about creating personal lists of "negotiables" versus "non-negotiables" when evaluating both current and potential positions. Both surgeons advocate for transparency with leadership when considering opportunities and leveraging mentorship networks to find positions aligned with your evolving career goals. They also discuss practical considerations like understanding contract terms around tail insurance, signing bonuses, and trailing collections before making any move.