Advice for WA state RN new grad seeking work

[emcraddick]

Hi everyone,

I am a newly licensed RN in Washington State as of February 2014. I live in Bellevue and I've been actively seeking work at all of the hospitals in the area (Overlake, Swedish, Harborview, Children's, Evergreen and more).

What I have observed is that most of these hospitals only hire new grads through their residency programs. These programs are few and far between and very competitive.

I try to contact at least one recruitment office a week to keep updated on my applied for positions.

I've heard differing opinions on walking onto desired floors to try and speak with a nurse manager and drop off a resume.

I'm posting here because I'm feeling a little dejected about what I can do to make my dream of working in a hospital a reality. I'm a hard worker and just am not sure what actions will help me and which ones will hurt my chances.

Help a new grad (and others like me!) out with any encouragement, advice or leads you might have!! It would be so greatly appreciated.

Thanks!