Applying for jobs

AshleeN · Feb 3, 2011

please reply... thank you!

Meriwhen, ASN, BSN, MSN, RN · Feb 4, 2011

Competition for jobs is fierce with the ton of new grads out there. Start applying NOW. Also start networking at your clinical sites and your current job. If you don't have a job as a PCA/tech/CNA, consider getting one as that can help get your foot into a hospital's door--it won't guarantee that they'll hire you as an RN though, but it could help.

One thing: keep in mind that because of all the new grads out there, places may not be interested in you until you pass your NCLEX.

JeanettePNP, MSN, RN, NP · Feb 4, 2011

Check out new grad residencies and their deadlines--many want you to start applying before you graduate. If you start applying too late you will miss the cut-off. It may take time to get together all the documentation and reference forms you need, so start on that before you graduate. It's also easier to get professors or clinical instructors to fill out reference forms while you're still in school and interacting with them than after you graduate, when you may have to make a special trip to school to pick them up.

B52-H · Feb 4, 2011

Get at least 3 letters of recommendation from clinical instructors with different specialties. Make a resume now and give it to an instructor or peer and have them review it. RN residency programs that have deadlines months in advance of the start date sometimes will let you apply without your license. Shorter deadlines will almost always require a license.

Make a list of all the hospitals in your area and write down the contact info for HR/Recruiter, making note of upcoming deadlines. Try your absolute best to get a job as a CNA, LVN etc now before you get your license. It is much tougher to get these jobs once you are an RN (impossible in some states by law).

muffins20 · Feb 5, 2011

Try looking for jobs directly on the company website. I found some positions posted for LTC companies that weren't listed on any job banks. I think you can even find LTC ratings for your area and see which ones are worth applying too and which ones to stay away from. Just start looking soon.

AshleeN · Feb 13, 2011

Thank you all for your suggestions and ideas. I will definitely start applying for jobs as soon as possible and take into consideration all of your input. I really appreciate all of your words of wisdom.