Hired in 24 hours!!!

A week or two ago (I can't remember) I interviewed for a 16hr acute care position- 16hr is all they had open at this hospital but I wanted in SO badly. I haven't done acute care in about 16 years. I have been doing project management and clinical software implementation. 4 yrs ago I took a refresher program but then found out I was pregnant so put off going back to clinical practice another 2 yrs. 2 yrs ago I worked part time in a subacute facility for about 8 months, but then an old manager called and promised me the world with a start up company. Needless to say it didnt' work out and I still want to get back to clinical practice so here's what I did-

I called and left a message for the nurse recruiter before submitting my resume. After 24hrs (and no return call) I sent in my resume, inquiring about any open nursing positions ont he shift that I wanted. 24hr after that I called the nurse recruiter again and left a message saying "I wanted to confirm your receipt of my resume and I'd love to set up a time to come in and disucss opportunities with you". She called me back the next day and we set up a time.

When we met I asked her if they met with / hire a lot of nurses returning to practice after being out so long and she said "quite frankly, no". I was stunned - especially with the nursing shortage over the past few years. She went on to tell me that I made it in the door because I was persistant and really demonstrated to them that I was serious and wanted to be there. I left my interview at 9:30 that morning. I received a call from HR at 9am the following day offering me the job.

I start on 9/8 and I'm excited and scared to death all at the same time!! I haven't put an NGT in someone in ages, and I've NEVER inserted an IV. They said they'll work with me to refresh all of those skills. I am SO happy!!!!

So if you're unsure if they like you, or are afraid to be too pushy - don't be. The important thing I learned was that they want to know you really want the job. I was afraid I was being obnixious but she said my demonstration of such a strong desire to be there is what got me the job.