Applying for first nursing job

babynursewannab · Dec 12, 2004

twarlik-

I graduate in 8 days and started my job hunt this past july/august by calling the area hospitals to see if they were hiring in my desired areas. I was told when to apply and when interviews would be held when we spoke.

I had my applications in by the end of September and had my job lined up by the beginning of October. I will be working in the CVICU (Post open-heart ICU). My other option was L&D and it was available to me....I just had to decide which career path I wanted to follow at this stage.

So 1) start as early as you can...it also lets them get to know you and that you are interested and 2) specialties are available if you have good grades and are truly interested.

Good luck!

-Alyssa

Proud mom of Monica (8y) and Kendra (11mo)

twarlik · Dec 12, 2004

Thanks for the response and advice. I think I'm going to put in some calls this week with the hospitals I'm interested in. Will probably give me more information than their websites.

Congrats on your graduation and new job!

SmilingBluEyes · Dec 13, 2004

I applied and got an OB position 2 months before graduating! Not too early to put a few lines out there you know!

wonderbee, BSN, RN · Jan 6, 2005

I will be graduating in December 2005. Since I will be looking for a job out of state while still attending school, are there any hints that anyone can give me about job hunting out of state? I'd like to minimize time away from studies and travel costs.

I'll be applying to Pittsburgh area hospitals. Ideally I'd like to start work after sitting for NCLEX and giving myself time to make the move. That would be at the end of January but won't the job market be flooded with RN grads at that time? The pressure of the move, new career and having to take the boards all at one time looks pretty overwhelming. What can I do to reduce the stress levels and still have a job waiting for me when I need it?

llg, PhD, RN · Jan 6, 2005

It's rarely "too early" to let a hospital know that you are interested in them. Make the first contact, then let them determine the exact timetable for the interviews, etc.

Also, don't be timid about asking the hospital's recruiter for information/advice about their hiring process. Ask them if they would like you to submit a more detailed resume ... or information about your school experiences ... etc. Most people in such positions are willing to point you in the right direction so that the interview/hiring process goes smoothly.

llg