Disappointed in pay

Dazglue, ADN, BSN, MSN, RN · Aug 4, 2011

Sometimes the benefits outweigh the pay. Sounds like you have a good job. As long as you are ok financial wise I say just stick with it!!! Good luck & congrats!!

Sanuk · Aug 4, 2011

Congratulations on graduating and on finding a job! While I agree that this pay seems really low, I would probably take the job, get some experience, and then put out feelers for a better-paying position. It's usually easier to move up the pay scale once you're not a new grad. I'm not sure what LVN/LPN pay is here in Texas, but I thought it was closer to 18/hr. Wonder why Florida is so low?

Been there,done that, ASN, RN · Aug 4, 2011

Alf pay is ridiculous... period. I am an RN with 30 years experience., was offered 19/hr.

Think of it as a learning experience, focus on your NEXT job, gain the experiences you need to move into that.

Good luck.

xtxrn, ASN, RN · Aug 4, 2011

Also, if you're in a smaller town, that makes a a difference- but cost of living often helps make up the difference- I'd be thrilled to be making less money in TX than what I did here (before disability, and not being able to work at all). :)

caliotter3 · Aug 4, 2011

While the low pay must be very disappointing, another good point is to tell yourself you are going to be earning $13.75 more than those buddies who can't get a job at all. Hope you enjoy the job.

Poi Dog · Aug 4, 2011

You listed some valid positives of the job!

Michizzle · Aug 4, 2011

Congratulations on graduating and on finding a job! While I agree that this pay seems really low, I would probably take the job, get some experience, and then put out feelers for a better-paying position. It's usually easier to move up the pay scale once you're not a new grad. I'm not sure what LVN/LPN pay is here in Texas, but I thought it was closer to 18/hr. Wonder why Florida is so low?

My mother says Florida is so low because it is considered a "right to work" kind of state..she said it means your lucky to have a job. It does not exactly make sense the way she put it but she did live here for a long time so I do value her advice. I grew up in wisconsin..where 13/hr was what CNAS made...My cousin just graduated from LPN and started off 24/hr. Then again Wisconsin has state taxes and Florida does not. Which also plays a role in it.

my3mracles · Aug 4, 2011

With the crazy gas prices, a close location is a big plus! I can't even look at the gas pump anymore when filling up. It hurts too much.

Congrats on the job!

Sanuk · Aug 4, 2011

I grew up in wisconsin..where 13/hr was what CNAS made...My cousin just graduated from LPN and started off 24/hr. Then again Wisconsin has state taxes and Florida does not. Which also plays a role in it.

They also have snow! Lots and lots of snow. Which actually sounds good to me right now as it was 113 here today.

Texas is right-to-work as well, and we also don't have a state income tax. It has it's pros and cons. If the job gets you in the door and has the other positives you listed, you really have nothing to lose. Just keep your eyes and ears open, build a network of other nurses, and when the right opportunity comes along, you can move up.

xtxrn, ASN, RN · Aug 4, 2011

I am a recent LPN graduate and decided to start my career off in an ALF, to gain the necessary experience in the management side of nursing. Especially with things that I did not learn in school such as paperwork. I live in Florida. I realize that pay down here is less than up north for example wisconsin. I was shocked when I was offered 13.00/hr for 3rd shift supervisor! I walked out with 13.75, but I am still disappointed and shocked. I even told the ineterviewer that i did not expect anything less than 15. I have classmates starting at 16.50-18.00.
I am trying to look at the bright side of it.
1. the facility seems good, the DON was very open and honest about everything that the facility deals with on a personal lefvel and i appreciated that.
2. It is a job..it puts money in my pocket!
3. It is close to home which makes transportation very cheap
4. I am gaining the management experience that I need and also good references for future.
5. The hours fit my schedule and I have weekends off.
However, I would appreciate a little more pay! Especially sine I will be filling big shoes while the LPN that runs the place has her baby next month!
Any ideas regarding this?

This sounds like a lot of stuff that there is no price for :) To have this opportunity as a new grad is a big deal :) And, wherever you go in the future, you got off to a good start. Money is important- but should never be the only consideration- it looks like you've come up with a good list of other perks :)

Mrs. SnowStormRN, RN · Aug 4, 2011

Hello. I do not live in FL, but I imagine the cost of living is pretty low there and that ALFs do not pay very much in general. If it turns out to be a job you love, and pay raises are good, than think of it as "I could be making $16/HR and be miserable everyday, at least Im here and happy." I know your disappointment, in 2003 I graduated LPN school, 1st job LTC, pay $13.25 (in VA). I was thinking, "Are you serious?" I was thinking low pay, plus I hated the job. EPIC FAIL, LOL! When I left I was making $15/hr and it took me almost 4 years to get that. LoL! I know on this board I often see Floridian nurses saying they cannot get a job, so maybe this is a blessing. I wish you much luck and success!!!