Eighteen years later... I'm starting over again

[VAC]

I've been an RN for 18 years in med surg, ICU, and PACU during what I thought was a successful career. Minimal write-ups until recently. My last job lasted 4 years, 3.5 with good evals. I resigned to avoid being fired in April for largely what I consider to be personal attacks. I am still looking for a job. I've been on several interviews, but still no job offers. Lots of rejection e-mails. I believe that part of the problem may be that my years of experience put me on top of the pay scale. In desperation, I even applied for a low paying job in an area I don't really want, because I know someone with connections who might get me in. I need advice and encouragement.

[Nola009]

Can you sue your previous employer due to the hostile work environment? What you described sounds unfair. Other than that, I have no advice. Except that you might try home health or hospice until you can get ba k into a hospital.

[caliotter3]

I, too, would advise trying home health or hospice. Those employers like to hire RNs, especially if they think you will be willing to work for the lower LPN rate of pay. Better than not working at all. Good luck.

[VAC]

After 4 months out of work, I got my first job offer and took it. I am better than halfway through orientation and things are going well. The recruiter for this job (unlike the others I'd interviewed for) had asked about my salary requirements before my interview. I told her that I expected to receive the hospital's going rate for an RN with my years of experience. She threw out a number that was just over $5 hr less than what I'd earned at my previous job. I also lost out on a hefty night shift differential. It's all good. I am grateful to be working again in a non-hostile environment. I just wanted to share the rest of my story and confirm my belief that my previous salary kept me out of the running for several other jobs. It's tough out there and it's all about the money.

[Lev, MSN, RN, NP]

After 4 months out of work, I got my first job offer and took it. I am better than halfway through orientation and things are going well. The recruiter for this job (unlike the others I'd interviewed for) had asked about my salary requirements before my interview. I told her that I expected to receive the hospital's going rate for an RN with my years of experience. She threw out a number that was just over $5 hr less than what I'd earned at my previous job. I also lost out on a hefty night shift differential. It's all good. I am grateful to be working again in a non-hostile environment. I just wanted to share the rest of my story and confirm my belief that my previous salary kept me out of the running for several other jobs. It's tough out there and it's all about the money.

Did you have to change specialties? Or is it more of the same?

[VAC]

I didn't change specialties, just environments.