I was an NA for 6 years before the "C" was needed, anyway, I got approval from The Department Of Public Health to sit for the exam and do the Clinical Skills test without having to pay for training since I already had experience. I was worried I wouldn't pass cause I haven't worked in 12 years. Well, I got a 94% on the written test and 100% on the Skills
I went on my first interview yesterday and the DOR said "We pay $8.50 an hour to start" and I said "I'm sorry I can't work for that!" She replied well, I'll give you $9.50. I said I need more that that!!! She kept looking at my resume and kept saying "Well, you DO have a lot of experience, but the highest I can go is $9.50" I said again, "I'm sorry, but I feel I'm worth more than that, thank you for your time". She said "Hold On!! Let's talk cash here what are you looking for?? I said, "Well, I was looking for $12.00 an hour" She gave me this look and said "But I have CNA's that have been here for years and don't get what your asking for!!" I said "I'm not here to fight for their pay, if they stay for $8.50 an hour that's fine, but I will NOT work for that, I can go to McDonalds for that, and with the Nursing Shortage the way it is, I can get a job ANYWHERE" I proceeded to tell her that I knew for a fact that I could go to one of the Hospitals in Boston and get $13.00 an hour....
Again I got a look!!
She said, "Close the door"
To cut to the chase, I got the job at $12.00 an hour, $13.00 an hour for Sunday, plenty of OT at time & 1/2 IF I CHOOSE TO TAKE IT. After 3 months, holidays including my Birthday off with pay, double time IF I work them. Full Health Benefits!!!
I honestly thought she would throw me out of her office, but I think she was GREAT!!!