Can't get hired

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Specializes in L&D; Case Management; Nursing Education.

I have nearly 20 yrs of L&D and high risk experience. I just spent the past 5 yrs as a maternity health coach, but got laid off recently. I'd like to get back to the hospital doing either L&D or postpartum. I've gotten several interviews after they see my resume, but once I get to the interview it's finished and I get the rejection notice. I think the interviews have all gone well, so I suspect it's age discrimination, but it can't be proven. I teach OB and med/surg nursing part time, but it's not enough to live on. I thought this might look good on my resume, but nothing seems to help.

I feel so hopeless. There are only a few hospitals within an hour of me, so I think I'm back to square one. I never thought I'd be without a job as a nurse! Any advice from other "older" OB nurses who have had a hard time getting hired?? :crying2:

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I don't know where you live or if you are in a position to move but there are TONS of L&D jobs in Georgia as well as a few teaching jobs posted at various colleges across the state.

Also, what about a traveling agency? Cross Country has a really good rep. from what I understand.

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Specializes in Mental Health, Medical Research, Periop.

Sounds like you have a lot of experience. Ever thought about going into business for yourself? Maybe visit homes and do your teachings to individuals. I'm sure there is a process to this, but I am not sure of those steps. Wishing you much success!

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Specializes in LTC.

I'm sorry you are having a hard time. I was talking to a co-worker of mine, she and I were both nurses at his AWFUL facility. I was telling her that she can work anywhere and get a job quicker than me because she had over 20 years of nursing experience. She immediately corrected me and said " No you have a better chance with your 2 years of experience getting hired before me" I said "No way"

She told me she experienced the same as you. Age discrimination. There is no way to prove it but I believe its true.

This is such a shame. Could you consider another area of nursing? I hope and pray you find something. Can't imagine what you are going through.

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Specializes in L&D; Case Management; Nursing Education.

Thanks for the answers. No, I don't want to move. My parents, who live nearby, are elderly and need help. My children and grandchildren also live near me. There are plenty of OB jobs around here, but I've applied to all of them and have either gotten a "no" or just never get a callback.

NurseLoveJoy88, you're right! Employers like a nurse to have 2-3 yrs experience so they aren't too new but don't have to get paid much. I have tons of experience, but am up at the top of the pay range. So obviously they can save money as well as still have a fairly experienced nurse if they hire the younger one. And they probably think an older nurse might retire soon or have health issues. I have neither, but the employers don't know that.

Since I've already applied for all the jobs I really wanted, I'm now applying for ones I don't really want. Makes me so mad that I may have to work in an area I don't like. :crying2:

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