New Graduates-How long to find first job

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Hi All,

I was wondering for new graduates in BC. How long did it take to find your first job as a nurse after completing your BSN.

I am just starting my journey to become a nurse in BC. I was wondering if it really matters from what school you graduate from. I've heard some people say it doesn't really matter just as long as you pass the certification exam on the first try. I was thinking of applying to UBC but I think my average in the last 30 credits is too low, around a 73%, so I think I am going to apply to Kwantlen because my overall is around 79%.

I was wondering if Kwantlen graduates ever had trouble finding a job after. Or any of the other graduates from BC.

Thanks

Specializes in AC, LTC, Community, Northern Nursing.

I did HFO but it was a new program when i graduated so i was one of the lucky ones.. Just keep searching. You will get a job. It may take a while but it does happen. Persevere and send out resume EVERYWHERE for any position. Even if its a unit you may not like because its called foot in door lol

Specializes in geriatrics, IV, Nurse management.
Well guys, thanks for the encouragement!!! lol....:wacky:

Regardless, I'm very excited for the opportunity and extremely blessed to have anything at all!

It is realistic. Several of my classments did the RN bridge after due to no full time work. It seems to be an easy way for companies to get a nurse.

Specializes in NICU.
It is realistic. Several of my classments did the RN bridge after due to no full time work. It seems to be an easy way for companies to get a nurse.

Sure, it's realistic. I'm just trying to have a positive attitude. I'm thankful for any experience, and who knows what the future holds :)

Hi Vintage! I wanted to let you know the hospital I work at will hire our RPNs full time (I have seen postings and new hires) however majority are for the nursing resource team (float pool). Not sure if that could be an option at your hospital! I did that starting out an an RN (I'm still on float technically) but get assigned to one area/unit. Try all options :)

I hear about nursing shortage in school but it seems finding a job is really difficult.

I hope the situation will be better in up coming years.

Specializes in geriatrics.

There is a definite nursing shortage. However, there's no money in the budgets to pay nurses. We all hope things will improve.

I have been applying since January to almost all postings for RPN positions. It is very discouraging that I haven't received any replies. I applied several of the HFO postings also, and nothing. I graduated with high honour in December. What could be the problem? Any ideas or advise?Canadianhungarian, which hospital are you working at? (I am canadian hungarian too, lol)

Specializes in NICU.

I didn't get a call from any of the jobs I just applied for online....I got responses (and my job) by physically taking my resume to the managers on the units and calling the units to get their emails and reaching out to them.

Good luck!

Specializes in geriatrics.

Aside from the advice presented, when job searching, keep in mind:

-Cover letters and resumes must be proofread several times to avoid spelling and grammatical errors.

-Tailor your cover letters to each job you're applying for, and ask yourself: "Would I hire me?"

-Look at the job description, the mission statements and values. Tailor your information accordingly.

- Membership in various related organizations and added certifications will capture some interest.

- Avoid saying: "I'm the perfect fit, I'm compassionate, I'm hardworking, etc..." These statements show nothing about your personality. Briefly highlight how or why you should be considered for a position. How can you meet the needs of that organization?

I have had the experience of hiring and supervising staff in my previous career. These are the kinds of things most employers consider when screening applicants, especially when they are receiving high volumes of resumes.

Specializes in geriatrics, IV, Nurse management.
Aside from the advice presented, when job searching, keep in mind:

-Cover letters and resumes must be proofread several times to avoid spelling and grammatical errors.

-Tailor your cover letters to each job you're applying for, and ask yourself: "Would I hire me?"

-Look at the job description, the mission statements and values. Tailor your information accordingly.

- Membership in various related organizations and added certifications will capture some interest.

- Avoid saying: "I'm the perfect fit, I'm compassionate, I'm hardworking, etc..." These statements show nothing about your personality. Briefly highlight how or why you should be considered for a position. How can you meet the needs of that organization?

I have had the experience of hiring and supervising staff in my previous career. These are the kinds of things most employers consider when screening applicants, especially when they are receiving high volumes of resumes.

There is nothing worse than a typo in the middle of the first sentence of a cover letter.

Also don't be afraid to be creative. Resumes and cover letters that stand aside from the rest jump out to me. In 50 ish applicants for my last position one had a cover page in colour that really showed their creative side.

I was thinking to doing that, but nurses and my instructors discouraged me. They said managers don't like that and most places don't take "cold" applications any more, we have to go through HR.

What was your experience vintagePN? (I understand it turned out well for you, but what was the general reaction from managers?)

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