Unless you have experience working in home health care or working in LTC, you won't get hired unless you know someone who is doing the hiring.I paid for a CNA program, passed the state exam, and I haven't been able to find a job as a CNA. Relocating is out of the question, because it isn't worth the money to relocate on my own for a job that pays less than $20,000 a year in the first year when I can get an entry level job in another field that pays near $40,000 and doesn't require me to relocate at my own expense.CNAs are a dime in a dozen, and even LTCs are picking who they want to hire in this economy. If you don't have experience, don't waste the time or money. The money and time you will waste towards being a CNA should go towards LVN or RN school. I spent a grand out of my own pocket to become a CNA, and couldn't find a job. I'm lucky that I did not take out a loan for it. If someone wants to be a CNA, then go through a Work Source program or a welfare to work program. I would have done the same, but I made too much money this year before I was laid off. I don't mean to sound negative, but I don't want people thinking that they can get a CNA job with zero experience. I have been out of work for months, and now I am out of $1000. If you're 21 or younger, have no expenses, and live at home, then you can spend months looking for a job as a CNA , or even relocate and live in a room at someone's house. However, if you're in you're 30s, have bills, and can't depend on your parents to pay your bills, then do not consider being a CNA , unless you have experience.I cannot stress this enough. If you want to get into the nursing field, and you're out of work, get a job in something you have experience in, and get into a LVN or RN program that will let you attend part-time.In California, the CNA, job market is tight. It's extremely rough if you live in a major city.
