Aspiring RN/ current CNA seeking insights

[Trauma-llama25]

Hello all, my name is Jason. I'm new here, so be kind :) a little about me : in 25, male and currently working as a CNA. I am a nursing student at holy family university in Philadelphia, PA.

I write today seeking insights on the current job market for RNs/ PCTs and for ideas on how to get the attention of hospital recruiters.

I currently work as a CNA in a long term care facility. Though I enjoy helping my residents ( am told "I love you" often by them - melts me) I really don't identify too greatly with the nature of this type of nursing work. Long term care isn't especially inspiring/ interesting to me and I really want a hospital- based trauma/ PCT position while in school. ( also to make a RN job more attainable )

Now, I have a good résumé and I make a very professional appearance. My history and background are 100%. I am even serving in the US coast guard. Talking to a recruiter won't be a problem for me. The issue I've had so far though is actually getting the attention of recruiters. It seems to me that faces and personalities get lost in this electronic world we live in. With all hospitals going over to " electronic recruiting" how is one to establish that critical initial human contact? I'm looking for the humanity in the recruiting scene , and it's hard to find. I will note that my first CNA position came as a result of actually hand delivering my résumé to the nursing home. I was called 2 hours later.

In summary, how DOES one go about getting to first base with hospital recruiters when all one is told is to " apply online " ? All insights sincerely appreciated.

- Jason.

PS: is it a good idea to hand deliver résumés to hospital HR offices? Sorry for the long pos. thanks all.

[josh2]

I'd bet that most of your RNs, supervisors and managers at your current facility previously worked at hospitals. THEY will be your references when you try to get into the hospital, once licensed.

In bigger cities, where the markets are fulll of capable nurses, you need to network. Finding the right job is all about who you know, and who you bl.....

[HouTx, BSN, MSN, EdD]

PCT positions are normally only available to nursing students who are actively enrolled in an RN program.

I understand how frustrating it is to have to deal with online application systems. However, due to shrinking resources as well as ever-increasing employment regulations, this is the only option for most larger companies. Trying to bypass the normal route will only result in the perception that you feel you are "entitled" to special treatment. These days, that is the worst possible category way to describe an applicant.... you really don't want that. Hiring managers tend to avoid "special little snowflakes" like the plague.

Have you looked into organizations in which your background does qualify you for special consideration? Veterans get preferential hiring treatment at many organizations, particularly "public" (tax supported) or VA facilities - you should certainly look into this.

Best of luck as you pursue your education and career