Published
As a nurse manager, I never minded being contacted by "hopefuls."
But, in my opinion, phone contact is just downright inconvenient. The manager may be busy, and to be interrupted with an unsolicited (but well-meaning) candidate may not be welcome.
e-mail would be my preference, and is the method of contact that I would be most likely to respond to.
Good luck!
Part of the problem with new grads finding jobs is the economy. The idea that nursing is a "recession-proof" profession is a load of huey. So, given a choice between an experienced nurse and a new grad, the experienced nurse will win out.
But that does't mean it's hopeless.
When I interviewed a new grad (I'm now working in a different profession), I didn't focus so much on clinical know-how. I managed a NICU, an area where virtually no new grad has experience. I expected to have to teach new grads the ins and outs of the clinical area. I never wanted to have to teach anyone professionalism, teamwork, positive attitude, flexibility.....You get the point.
In reviewing resumes and planning for interviews I looked for a solid history of work or volunteer experience. It didn't particularly matter to me whether it was health care related or not. Like I said, I expected to teach clinical skills and knowledge. But I wanted to see a pattern of reliable attendance at work (be it McDonald's, babysitting or lawncare) or a volunteer job. In the absence of work or volunteer experience, involvement in some worthwhile organization would be helpful, such as SADD or Student Nurse Organization. Someone with no work, volunteer or organizational experience isn't going to be very impressive to me. Do not "fluff" your resume. Don't overstate your job title, responsibilities, honors, GPA or any other accomplishment. It will set off my BS detector and your resume will land in the trash.
It is imperative to present oneself professionally in an interview. Practice common interview questions in advance. Prepare a list of thoughtful questions regarding the institution and unit. Dress appropriately. Be prepared with a resume, reference list and other information needed to complete an application (such as dates and supervisors of employment or schooling.) Bring an example of pertinent written work, such as a teaching plan, if you have one. Be early. Leave your cell phone in the car. Make sure you have the correct name and spelling of the person interviewing you so you can send a thank-you the next day. Ask when you will hear from the institution and how you should proceed. If you learn that you have not been chosen for a job, ask he manager if s/he would be willing to critique your interview and suggest how you can improve for the next time. If you feel like you had a good rapport with the manager, ask if you can contact him/her every few months to check on job availability.
Do not discuss personal issues such as health, family, or children during an interview. Do not ask about salary unless and until you have received a verbal offer. Be flexible about shifts and units. There are nurses who have worked for 25 years who still take their share of nights, weekends and holidays. You will not endear yourself to anyone by being unwilling to do the same. If you receive an offer, ask for a written copy so that you may be certain you understand it fully.
If you are balancing 2 offers, be honest about needing more time to decide. Do not take a job, then quit 2 weeks later because "something better" (which usually isn't) has come along. You'd be ticked if your employer let you go after 2 weeks, but you'd be amazed at the number of candidates who think this is OK to do. It's not, and it will bite you in the butt. Finally, be prepared to work harder than you ever have in your life.
Also, as a former DON I used to have my own special question. If someone said they worked at XYZ Hospital I would reply, "Oh, did you happen to know Dr. ABC?" If they replied yes their resume went into the trash when they left my office ~ Dr. ABC did not exist and if they would lie to me in the interview they would lie to me once they had the position.
noski
82 Posts
i am a new grad and I wouId love to work in postpartum, there are 2 hospitals close to me, I have called their HR, they never seem to pick their phones, i have called several times and have only left 3 messages, (within 3wks).
I got the name & phone number of the unit manager, i don't know if i should call to speak with the manager, just to introduce myself or just drive there and leave a copy of my resume....what do you think? i really dont want to step on anyone's toes....especially a prospective employer.
Please just tell me what you would do if you were in my shoes and those who are nurse managers, would you be offended?
thanks for your feedback