Job application protocol

[Djuna]

I have a question regarding applying for more than one position in a hospital.

As a New Zealand RN who wants to work at one particular hospital, is it considered bad practice to apply for more than one job? I have applied for an ER position but I am prepared to work in other areas of nursing just to get my foot in the door. I did state this when I contacted HR but I haven't heard back from then. I am just very hesitant in applying for more than one position in case it looks bad.

Any ideas?

[caliotter3]

I wouldn't know about protocol in NZ, but here in the States, most people apply for several jobs at once, even within the same hospital. I don't follow this practice myself, because, heaven forbid, I don't want to have to deal with the possibility of more than one offer of employment at about the same time. I deal with one job application at a time. When I'm certain that there will be no offer from that employer, I go to the next on my list. But that is me. Maybe others from NZ can fill us in?

[Djuna]

I am applying for jobs in the US, not NZ.

[leslymill]

If you don't get the ER position ask that your application be submitted to another nurse manager. It is the nurse managers that do the interview to get you the job.

It is not uncommon for me to ask this. Do as many interviews with nurse managers that you can get and qualify for.

[Djuna]

Any other thoughts about this?

[SaderNurse05, BSN, RN]

Several times in my working life I have applied for different jobs at one time with the same employer. It has always worked out fine for me. I have actually had employers "bid" against each other with offers for better hours, less call or more money. One place even offerred up a $1200 per year allowance for each employee to take any kind of continuing education trip.. Back in 1987 that was a lot of money. There is nothing rude, or improper, about knowing what you are worth and asking for it. As a young (er) woman I used to be so thankful someone offerred me a job. Now I know that the majority of negotiation will take place before I am hired. I think that is sad because many current employers do not encourage employees to do a good job, e.g. across the board cost of living raises. I know I will be an asset and I bring letters and examples of my work to prove it. Good luck in your job hunting, and remember THEY are lucky to get YOU!