Apply Anyway

[PCnurse88]

Recently I was advised to apply to any job posting that I could find that didn't specify the amount of experience required or had less than 2 years experience as a requirement. I graduated in May and have had no luck on the job front, as many of my fellow graduates can empathize with, and when I asked my father whether I should follow this advice he said "it couldn't hurt". What would you guys do? Typically I only apply if there is no specification for experience, or of it says that it is "preferred" but not required. One of my previous nursing instructors said that she thought I should apply for these jobs and write a really good cover letter to go with it.

It couldn't hurt.... could it?

I'm at the point where I need to move out of my parent's house, my family has been sending me not-so-subtle hints for a while that I should start apartment hunting, but I'd really like to find a job so I don't end up commuting hours upon hours each work day once I (finally) do become an employeed nurse. So frustrating!

[HarryTheCat, MSN, RN]

It never hurts to apply, even though you don't meet all of the qualifications, but resumes and cover letters are only going to go so far. The reality is that many jobs, even in Nursing, are filled by networking and not through the "help wanted" postings. Don't be afraid to pick up the phone and talk to anyone and everyone, and let them know what you're looking for. Follow up, where appropriate, with a resume and a brief note or email thanking the person for their time.