In May 1974, upon receipt of my state board scores and a newly minted RN license, I entered the nursing profession. Unlike the typical new graduate who enters the workforce today, I did not have much to worry about except paying the rent and enjoying my independence. Retirement was about the furthest thing from my mind.

Today, retirement is something I give a lot more thought to. Through years of experience with different employers, I have come to appreciate different qualities in an employer than I did in my 20s. I care a whole lot more about the fine print in my benefits package today, and wish I had been more savvy when I was younger. I am sure it would have altered my career decisions, given my history of changing jobs about every five to eight years. Understanding the complex nature of compensation and benefits is important.

The financial "package" of today's employment offer often is complicated, and the real value is not always immediately discernable. Unfortunately, flashy recruitment strategies, such as huge hiring bonuses, may get your attention, but also could distract you from considering the full impact of leaving one job for another. The first and best piece of advice I can give regarding the job market is to take pause, be smart and be careful:

Participate in and understand every aspect of your retirement program. Look for and take advantage of the maximum employer match in any programs, such as a 401(k). Take advantage of any pretax savings programs vs. those that take dollars after they have been taxed. Know what you will lose if you leave. Sometimes, it can make a hiring bonus look like pocket change.

Understand the vesting required in your retirement program. If you do decide to move on, avoid taxes by rolling over your tax-free savings into accounts you control. Ask your previous employers for an annual report of your retirement account.

Look for flexible or cafeteria-style benefits packages. As you grow older and your circumstances change, it is best to be able to flex your benefits to meet the needs of your family. Take advantage of any group life insurance offered.

Explore the educational and professional development opportunities that your employer will fund. While you are working, take advantage of tuition or scholarship programs. If the employer does not offer what you want, ask for it and have it put in writing. If you want to go to school and are in the process of changing jobs, get a pre-employment agreement to cover all your tuition, not just the annual limit.

Ask your employer to waive the normal time required for benefits to become effective. You cannot afford to have a break in your benefits if you decide to change jobs.

If you have changed jobs and have learned that the grass is not greener on the other side, you may be surprised to find that your previous employer will reinstate you with full salary, benefits and seniority. If you are tempted to change jobs, look before you leap. Try working per diem for a few months at your potential employer to see if it practices what is preached.

Who we work with and for is important. If you are tempted because of money alone, give your present employer the opportunity to counteroffer. If there are benefits and perks that you feel your employer should consider, take some time to visit with human resources and make suggestions. Talent retention is the No.1 priority in health care human resource circles. Just let them know what's important to you and you may be surprised.

Discuss this and other topics with your colleagues at www.nurseweek.com/rnvillage.