Best way to get your foot in the door?

[mell260]

i am a recent grad rn bsn. i've applied to a couple of rn positions at the local hospital and have not heard anything back in almost 2 months. would it be wise to apply to something like a nursing assistant position? the job requires an assistant license...would that be worth the time (or would an rn even be allowed to work as an assistant?)

i also realize that that still won't count as rn experience so i'm not really getting anywhere except potential networking. my other idea is to just volunteer as a transporter or desk clerk...

which seems like a better choice to you?

[AnonRNC]

You should NOT take an assistant position. You will be paid beans but, depending upon your Nurse Practice Act, may be held accountable to your RN license. However, volunteering at the hospital is a great idea! I would try to get a volunteer position where you are interacting with patients and nurses, not just at the information desk.

What you posted above does not sound like you are aggressively pursuing work. Applying a couple of months ago and just waiting will not get you a job in this economic climate. If you are not already doing so, you need to be applying regularly, searching daily for new openings, follow-up your applications with emails and phone calls. Many applicants are also applying for positions that will require them to move.

Good luck!

[mell260]

You should NOT take an assistant position. You will be paid beans but, depending upon your Nurse Practice Act, may be held accountable to your RN license. However, volunteering at the hospital is a great idea! I would try to get a volunteer position where you are interacting with patients and nurses, not just at the information desk.

What you posted above does not sound like you are aggressively pursuing work. Applying a couple of months ago and just waiting will not get you a job in this economic climate. If you are not already doing so, you need to be applying regularly, searching daily for new openings, follow-up your applications with emails and phone calls. Many applicants are also applying for positions that will require them to move.

Good luck!

Oh I am being aggressive about it! In fact I'm afraid I am applying to too many openings at some of the hospitals and they maybe think that I am just job shopping or just super desperate....which I am.

[Aongroup1990, CNA]

How are you being desperate if that's what you're going for.. Keep networking, and also try to get to know some of the nurse managers. Be creative with yourself. Try dressing up professionally and give your resume/cover letter to them on the units. Try volunteering first in whatever are you want to work in. Talk to the ceo of the hospital.. Try impressing them by having a good resume with certifications...